Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Reviews

Plug-in carbon monoxide (CO) detectors are easy to use, and you don't need to worry about replacing batteries. Experts give this First Alert model the highest accuracy ratings, and owners appreciate this detector's clear… expandbacklit display, which monitors current and peak CO levels. Another plus is that you can test or silence its alarm using a TV remote control within a 12-foot range. The First Alert CO615 also comes with two AA batteries that serve as a safety backup in the event of a power outage. Manufacturers say this CO detector should be replaced after the expiration of its five-year warranty. collapse

You have to be mindful of replacing the batteries, but this type of CO detector has one big advantage -- you can place it wherever you need it, rather than being stuck with wherever your wall outlets are. Repeated reviews… expandpraise this Kidde carbon monoxide detector's digital display, which provides clear and constant CO readings. It also has a low-battery alert and versatile installation -- it can even be set to operate on your kitchen table. A green LED light on the unit, which changes to red during alerts, glows to indicate it's accurately working. The manufacturer recommends battery replacement every two years after the expiration of its five-year warranty. collapse

This CO and smoke detector combo has the ability to connect to up to 15 other Onelink home detectors -- that's helpful if you have a large home and worry that you may not hear an alarm sounding in a distant part of your… expandhome. Each unit is battery-powered, and they connect to each other by radio frequency. Experts say sensitivity is good with both CO and with smoke (this unit has a photoelectric fire sensor, which indicates the presence of a smoldering fire). One downside: This detector lacks a digital display, so you can't be sure of the exact level of carbon monoxide present. However, many owners feel its programmable voice alert, which loudly announces the location of the danger, easily makes up for this. The unit's manufacturer warranty is for five years, while its expected sensor life is six years. collapse

Consumers who want a combination CO and smoke detector for a small home may be interested in this battery-operated Kidde model. Unlike the First Alert Onelink model above, it can't connect to other alarms. It features a… expandhorn alert followed by a voice warning that announces whether a fire, carbon monoxide or low battery is detected. However, this detector does not feature a photoelectric fire sensor. It only includes an ionization smoke sensor, which has been shown to detect flames but not smoky fires. (Fire experts say homes should have both sensors for optimal safety.) Another drawback: This unit doesn't have a display that shows current levels of CO. This carbon monoxide/smoke detector is covered by a five-year warranty, and the manufacturer says its CO sensor can last up to seven years. collapse