Features to Consider When Choosing Your CO Detector

Features to Consider When Choosing Your CO DetectorCarbon monoxide is the number one cause of accidental poisoning death in North America. CO detectors are just as important as smoke alarms. You need at least one to make sure your family is safe from this deadly colorless, odorless gas. Most codes require carbon monoxide detectors. Here’s what you need to know before purchasing one or more CO detectors.

The three major things that every effective carbon monoxide detector should have include an electrochemical sensor, an end-of-life warning system and a certification from Underwriters Laboratories.

  • Electrochemical sensors are better at resisting false positives from common household chemicals. They also work better during temperature changes and high humidity situations.
  • An end-of-life warning system will allow you to know when you need to replace the detector. This means no guessing whether you are safe or not.
  • UL certification shows that it has been tested by a third-party laboratory and has passed strict regulatory testing.

Carbon monoxide detectors often come with other features that you may want to consider.

  • Voice warning systems announce that there is carbon monoxide in the home. There is no need to wonder what alarm the beeping is coming from.
  • Digital displays that update readings every 15 seconds give you a constant reading in the home. This can allow you to monitor the levels even before they reach dangerous levels.
  • Plug-in devices with a battery backup. The battery backup is essential because if your power goes out, there is a chance that this might contribute to a carbon monoxide issue.
  • Peak level memory shows the highest level of carbon monoxide ever recorded in the home. This can be a useful tool for first responders and medical professionals to determine the correct treatment for an effected individual.

Always follow the direction of the manufacture or your local city code for location requirements. Be sure to test and replace as recommended by each manufacture.

For more information on CO detectors for your Kansas City area home, please contact us at Overland Park Heating & Cooling, Inc.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Overland Park, Kansas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). 

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