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Rest easy with these picks from top brands like Kidde and First Alert.
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
Carbon monoxide is considered a silent killer, and for good reason.
According toJim Koether, master electrician at Reliable Heating & Air, carbon monoxide is odorless and invisible.
You wont know youre being exposed to it unless you have a detector.
Credit: Amazon
We noted each unit’spower source,alert key in,anddetection key in,as well as any additionalfeaturesandwarranties.
Some of the other monitors on our list can also detect smoke or gas.
Kidde is one of the most trusted brands in this space, known for its incredibly dependable products.
Credit: Amazon
Its no surprise that the brand produces the best carbon monoxide detector overall.
But it does that very well.
Theres a smart-hush button that you’ve got the option to use to test or quiet the monitor.
Credit: Amazon
The peak level memory lets you know the last time the equipment detected carbon monoxide or was tested.
It has a more dated look than many other carbon monoxide detectors.
If it detects anything amiss, youll be alerted by an 85-decibel alarm.
Credit: Amazon
It can be set up in just one step by plugging into any AC outlet.
Theres also a 9-volt battery so if power goes off, youre still in the know.
If the battery needs to be replaced, you could do so via the easy-to-access battery drawer.
This shouldnt be for alongtime, considering the 10-year warranty.
Despite being able to last for 10 years, it only has a two year warranty.
Google the best carbon monoxide detectors if you’d like a smart option.
This is the second shortest warranty on our list, and significantly lower than the average.
The one-year warranty is the shortest on our list.
The numbers are displayed on the color HD 1.9-inch screen.
Data is refreshed every two seconds, so you always know whats happening, when its happening.
When the carbon monoxide hits over 50 ppm (parts per million), youll hear a loud alarm.
The detector is on a lanyard, providing maximum portability.
This is helpful when youre traveling to a hotel, Airbnb, or campsite.
The other thing to consider is the warranty.
At one year, its shorter than all the others on our list.
Unlike some other products, your carbon monoxide detector mustalwaysbe in tip-top shape.
Looking at the warranty can also give you a good idea of how long a monitor typically lasts.
Carbon monoxide detectors typically have seven to 10 year warranties.
Koether recommends going with the wire or plug-in with a backup battery.
Alert bang out
Most carbon monoxide detectors use loud noises to get your attention.
Your Questions, Answered
Is a ceiling or wall carbon monoxide detector better?
Both are effective, but if youre able to choose, go for the ceiling detector.
Bonus: Its also harder to tamper with, making it inherently safer.
Where are the best places to put carbon monoxide detectors?
Koether also says you should put them in the garage area.
Other effective places include outside each bedroom or in the hallway and living room.
Heads up that putting them near a fireplace, bathroom, or kitchen could cause a false alarm.
How much do carbon monoxide detectors cost?
For standard options, you’re free to expect to spend anywhere between $30 and $60.
Smart detectors, on the other hand, can go into the low three figures.
How many carbon monoxide detectors do I need?
You want one on every floor at minimum, explains Koether, but every building is different.
The general rule of thumb is that the larger your home is, the more youll need.
When in doubt, remember that youll never regret addingmorethan necessary.
How long do carbon monoxide detectors last?
Typically, Koether says they last between eight and 10 years.
you’ve got the option to check the manufacturer guidelines to find out for sure.
The warranty can give you a good idea as well.
