All About Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Carbon monoxide detectors are readily available on the marketplace and should be considered for homes or businesses that don't already have them installed. Particularly in homes that have fuel-brining furnaces or hot water heaters, which can release carbon monoxide when not properly maintained, carbon monoxide detectors can be a critical safety feature.

Carbon monoxide alarms or detectors are recommended by the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission and should be manufactured after 1992. Standards published in 1992 require detectors to sound an alarm when carbon monoxide levels reach dangerous levels which could cause carbon monoxide poisoning or other safety concerns. Detectors and alarms should also be checked, on the manufacture's label, to make sure they comply with these standards as those models that don't meet these requirements aren't considered as safe.

There are three basic types of carbon monoxide detectors that all have their own features. You'll want to know the difference between the three before your purchase your own.

Electrochemical carbon monoxide detectors

One of the main benefits of electrochemical detectors is that they do not need to have their battery replaced. They are powered by their own internal battery which typically lasts around five years. This model works by issuing different responses to different levels of carbon monoxide.

Semiconductor carbon monoxide detectors

Carbon monoxide detectors that operate with a semiconductor are units that plug into the wall and come equipped with an electronic sensor. These detectors require the least amount of ongoing maintenance and will usually last at least five years with some models lasting as long as 10 or more years.

Biometric carbon monoxide detectors

These detectors will last around 10 years but they will require ongoing maintenance. Biometric carbon monoxide detectors work by using an internal cell that absorbs the carbon monoxide and issues and alarm when levels reach dangerous levels. These cell sensors, as well as the battery, will need to be replaced every two or three years in order for the detector to operate properly. After being activated, these detectors will need to sit in fresh air for a number of hours in order for the sensor to clear.

Other features to look for

Models are also made with flashing lights that will work especially well if someone in the household is hard of hearing.

A carbon monoxide detector with a power backup should be used in high-risk areas.

In general, the newer the detector, the safer it is.

More information on carbon monoxide detectors