Best Carbon Monoxide Detectors Guide & Reviews of 2021

CO gases are an invisible enemy that kills many people every year without them even noticing. Yet, there is an easy way to prevent this. There are many sensors in the market, which gives people an ample variety to choose from to improve the safety of their homes. To know of these are the best carbon monoxide detectors this 2021, keep on reading.

Jerry Carter - Editorial Staff

Updated: April 14, 2021

What We Did to Find the Best

To find the best equipment available in the market, there were some steps to take. The first one was to discover which were the products to review. Mostly by scouting the web and see what previous buyers said about the systems.

After that, we had to take a look at the specs of the devices to see which one stood out to ensure maximum security. To come up with the review, we had to choose 5 metrics and score them from 0 to 10. These are the categories:

  • Features

    0-10

    monitoring period, 24/7 alerts, disaster protection etc.

  • Support

    0-10

    telephone, email, chat, and other channels

  • Price

    0-10

    monthly fee, money-back, trial period

  • Ease of Use

    0-10

    installation, maintenance, service support

  • Trust Score

    0-10

    BBB.org and Trustpilot (positive, negative reviews)

Once we have assigned a grade to each of these metrics, we average them to come up with the final score for the product. As we have years of experience, it was easy for us to see what reviews were true. And which source belonged to affiliate marketing. All those real comments counted to make the ranking of the products readers can see below.

1. ADT CO Protector: A Reputed System

Total Score 9.4/10

ADT Main
ADT Package
ADT Features
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment10/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$24.79

Visit Website
BBB Rating A+
Best for

DIY instal

NO

Trial Period

This is one of the most reputed CO detectors in the market thanks to its reliability. It triggers a very loud alarm if it detects high levels of monoxide, and includes a one-press test button to make sure that the device is working as it should.

This device also comes with an LED light to indicate if it needs maintenance. To make sure that its readings are correct, it has a built-in electrochemical sensor that detects even low levels of CO so that people are warned before it becomes a serious issue.

Pros:

  • Wireless and hardwired options
  • Tamper-resistant
  • Electrochemical technology
  • Detects low levels of CO
  • ADT Pulse app
  • Self-test button
  • 6-year life

Cons:

  • Only pro setup
  • Not compatible with other brands
  • No smoke detection

There are hardwired and wireless carbon monoxide detectors so that people can install the system on any ceiling or wall, even if they are difficult to wire. It comes with tamper-resistant technology, which is one of the reasons why it is so reliable.

If the device is taken out of its base, this tech will communicate that to the control panel and alert the user. They can get this info on the ADT Pulse app, for example.


2. SimpliSafe CO Listener: Get Pro Help in an Emergency

Total Score 9.3/10

SimpliSafe Main
SimpliSafe Build My System
No Contaract SimpliSafe Features
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment10/10
  • Price8.5/10
  • Ease Of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$49.99

Visit Website
BBB Rating A+
Best for Contacting emergencies

DIY instal

NO

Trial Period

This carbon monoxide detector by Simplisafe can be used with one of their plans. When these packages are active, if the device detects CO emissions, first, it will contact the family with SMS and emails.

But also, it will notify emergency responders and send them to the home. The item will show a red light and turn on a siren. It will make 4 beeps and then will pause.

Pros:

  • SMS and email alerts
  • Notifies first responders
  • Wireless
  • Easy setup
  • Simple notification system
  • Loud siren
  • Good reviews

Cons:

  • Paid plans
  • No smart functionality
  • No app

This CO detector is completely wireless, which makes it very easy to install and means that it can be placed in any part of the room since it does not have any plug. This means that the transmitter can get in touch with the base station remotely.

After the alarm goes off, it will reset once the device no longer detects CO. It has alerts for low battery, wall tamper, and sensor end-of-life conditions.


3. Nest Protect CO and Smoke Alarm: The Smartest One Around

Total Score 8.9/10

Nest Main
Nest Features
Nest Protect
  • Features10/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price7.0/10
  • Ease Of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score9.5/10

Starting Price

$119.99

Visit Website
BBB Rating A-
Best for Smart integrations

DIY instal

NO

Trial Period

This smoke and carbon monoxide detector is quite versatile. Every time it detects something, it sends an alert to the user’s phone. Also, before sounding the loud alarms, it warns the family using a friendly human voice. If the problem persists, the bell will ring.

This CO detector sensor has a split-spectrum tech that allows it to detect more accurately and avoid false alarms. For example, it can differentiate smoke from steam by reviewing the humidity levels. Also, it tests itself regularly to avoid malfunctions and provide more security.

Pros:

  • Human voice alerts
  • Detects both CO and smoke
  • Works with other Nest products
  • IFTTT integration
  • Wireless
  • Self-testing 400 times per day
  • Complete app

Cons:

  • Not possible to see the whole history
  • Pricey
  • Batteries cannot be changed

This CO detector can be set up by any user since there is no hardwiring. And it has been designed to work for 10 years. On the negative side, Google’s product is a bit more expensive than the competition, but it may be worth it for those who want the latest and greatest systems.


4. Ring Alarm CO and Smoke Listener: The Middleman for Security

Total Score 8.8/10

Ring Review
Ring For Apartments
Ring Home Automation
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score8.0/10

Starting Price

$34.99

Visit Website
BBB Rating C
Best for App performance

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

This smoke and carbon monoxide detector use the Ring app to notify users about what is going on, from maintenance alerts to possible high CO emissions. If there is any suspicious activity, the monitoring center will be notified.

Since they work 24/7, they can intervene at any time to prevent accidents and ensure safety. This service costs only $10 per month, and it can be canceled at any time since there are no contracts.

Additionally, this is one of the best CO detectors when it comes to integrations. It can connect with pretty much any device created during the last 10 years, no matter the brand.

Pros:

  • Optional monitoring service
  • Integrates with almost any device
  • High-performing app
  • Low fees
  • Reliable alerts
  • Easy setup
  • 3-year battery life

Cons:

  • Needs other devices to work
  • Needs to be within 6” of other sensors
  • No IFTTT integration

It is worth noting that this product does not detect smoke or CO itself. Instead, it has to be paired with another safety device to measure that. What this does is getting that info and notifying everyone about it.

The setup process is quite simple and can be done in minutes without any special tool or pro to help.


5. Kidde Battery-Operated: Simple and Functional

Total Score 8.7/10

Kidde Fire Safety Products
Kidde About
Kidde Fire Safety
  • Features8.0/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use8.0/10
  • Trust Score9.5/10

Starting Price

$18.99

Visit Website
BBB Rating A-
Best for Simple info

DIY instal

NO

Trial Period

This is one of the CO detectors that come with electrochemical sensors, which are the most effective way to detect emissions. This is one of the systems that come with a digital display that shows the current levels of the room.

It updates the report every 15 seconds and records which is the highest level it sensed. If they are above what they should be, an 85 dB alarm will go off to alert the family.

Pros:

  • Digital display
  • Readings every 15 seconds
  • Loud alarm
  • Works during power outages
  • Easy-to-read LED
  • Batteries are easily accessible
  • Affordable pricing

Cons:

  • No smart functions
  • Sometimes gets the readings wrong
  • Flimsy construction

This CO detector works with batteries and is very simple to use. Yet, this may be a con for some, since this also means that there is not smart home compatibility.

On the positive side, the batteries are easy to replace, and they send a signal when they are about to run out to ensure that the device is always charged. It also has an LED light that turns red if there is an issue.


6. First Alert CO400 Alarm: Accuracy from Anywhere in the Home

Total Score 8.7/10

First Alert Main
First Alert Community
First Alert Sensors
  • Features8.5/10
  • Equipment8.0/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use9.0/10
  • Trust Score9.0/10

Starting Price

$19.33

Visit Website
BBB Rating A-
Best for Location independence

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

This is one of the CO detectors that does not need to be connected to an outlet, which makes it easy to place it anywhere in the house. Fortunately, its batteries are replaceable, which means that one does not have to throw the device away once they run out.

Yet, this process is a bit hard. The system works thanks to its advanced electrochemical carbon monoxide sensor, which is one of the most accurate technologies in the market. It can detect CO emissions from anywhere in the room.

Pros:

  • Affordable pricing
  • Reliable readings
  • UL-tested
  • 5-year warranty
  • Battery-powered
  • Electrochemical system
  • Durable

Cons:

  • Hard to change the batteries
  • No smart home integration
  • Confusable beepings

When this sensor detects something, it triggers an 85 dB alarm. Make sure not to confuse it with the end-of-life signal that sets off when carbon monoxide detectors are about to die out. When this happens, make sure to get a new one.

The CO400 was tested by UL to ensure that it meets its safety standards. And just in case, it also has a 5-year limited warranty.


7. Arikon Smoke and CO Listener: A Beautiful Companion

Total Score 8.5/10

ARIKON Main
Arikon Detail
Arikon How It Work
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment8.0/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use8.0/10
  • Trust Score8.5/10

Starting Price

$20.99

Best for Outstanding design

DIY instal

NO

Trial Period

Arikon’s device is among the best CO detectors in the market, thanks to its accuracy. It uses a photoelectric sensor to detect smoke and an electrochemical one for carbon monoxide emissions. This reduces false alarms to a minimum and gives exact readings of the levels found in the room.

In case it detects something, the product triggers an 85 dB alarm to alert everyone around. And if it is running out of batteries, a security light will appear.

Plus, it has an innovative design that makes it one of the best-looking safety products on the market.

Pros:

  • Accurate readings
  • Photoelectric sensor for smoke
  • Electrochemical detector for CO
  • 85-decibel alarm
  • Good looking
  • Show of lights
  • Often in sale

Cons:

  • No integration with other smart devices
  • No app
  • No human voice alarm

On the downside, this item does not have any smart features or apps. This may be good for those who are looking for something simple. But users who are already accustomed to receiving notifications on their phones will probably be disappointed in this respect.


8. Kidde Nighthawk CO Alarm: Reports Every 15 Seconds

Total Score 8.7/10

Kidde Fire Safety Products
Kidde About
Kidde Fire Safety
  • Features8.0/10
  • Equipment8.5/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use8.0/10
  • Trust Score9.0/10

Starting Price

$119.99

Visit Website
BBB Rating A-
Best for Informative readings

DIY instal

NO

Trial Period

Kidde’s carbon monoxide alarm gives constant info regarding the CO levels at home. It has a digital display for this that refreshes its info every 15 seconds to give accurate and updated reports. If something is not right, the device will trigger an 85 dB alarm to alert everyone in the home.

Plus, this CO detector is convenient in the sense that it lasts for 10 years, so it is easy to set and forget. It has to be plugged into a source of electricity to work, but it comes with a pair of batteries to make it through a power outage, for example.

Pros:

  • Outage protection
  • Accurate reports
  • Easy-to-read display
  • Long-lasting
  • Loud alarm
  • Backup batteries
  • 6-meter cord

Cons:

  • Not compatible with smart homes
  • Hardwired
  • The alarm may go off at random

This carbon monoxide sensor was designed to match the looks of every room. It has a limited warranty of 5 years. It can be used with any A/C outlet and comes with a cord of 6 meters so that users can plug it and place it in almost any place of the room.


9. First Alert Onelink Safe & Sound: A Luxurious Solution

Total Score 8.3/10

First Alert Main
First Alert Community
First Alert Sensors
  • Features8.0/10
  • Equipment8.5/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease Of Use8.0/10
  • Trust Score9.0/10

Starting Price

$172.44

Visit Website
BBB Rating A-
Best for Large budgets

DIY instal

NO

Trial Period

This smart CO detector connects with the other alarms in the house using Wi-Fi to alert in case there is any problem, like a fire or leak. What is more, it also sends notifications to the user’s phone, letting them know about what is going on and gives them the option to turn off the alarm.

This device works on batteries, and they cannot be replaced. So, once they runoff, it is time to get a new one. This may be costly for some, due to the high price of this item.

Pros:

  • 10-year battery
  • Wi-Fi connection
  • Integration with other alarms
  • Complete mobile app
  • Syncs info
  • Voice alarm
  • Human voice alerts

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • The battery cannot be replaced
  • Hardwired

This CO detector is hardwired, which may make the setup process more difficult. It has a very powerful speaker to boost the loudness of the alarms. And to avoid confusing beepings, it shows battery levels only through the app.

For the alerts to be more friendly, it uses a human voice to announce the type and location of the danger. It also works with Alexa to simplify its use and make safety easy.


10. First Alert CO605 Detector: The Dual-Powered Solution

Total Score 8.3/10

First Alert Main
First Alert Community
First Alert Sensors
  • Features8.0/10
  • Equipment8.0/10
  • Price8.5/10
  • Ease Of Use8.0/10
  • Trust Score9.0/10

Starting Price

$24.79

Visit Website
BBB Rating A-
Best for Power flexibility

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

Like other CO detectors, this product has all types of measures to work even during power outages. During a normal day, it can be plugged into any standard socket. But if the lights go out, it can still work thanks to its 9V backup batteries.

To make sure that it is working at all times, it has a test button that people can activate at any moment. And if this device detects something, it triggers an 85 dB alarm.

Pros:

  • UL certified
  • Dual powered
  • Electrochemical sensors
  • 7-year warranty
  • Simple beeping system
  • Loud alarm
  • Can be mounted anywhere

Cons:

  • Sometimes arrives with expired batteries
  • No smart home integration
  • No app

To ensure maximum reliability, this product includes the latest tech in the field of electrochemical sensors. This is what all the best CO sensors use since it gives accurate reports and detects emissions no matter in which part of the room it is.

It comes with a limited warranty of 7 years. This item passed all of UL’s tests to certify that it is safe to use.


Best Carbon Monoxide Detectors of 2021 (Pricing & Features)

There are many features to take into account when choosing the best detector for one’s home. To make matters simple, here is a chart with all the important info about these carbon monoxide detectors presented concisely.

Provider Price Setup Smoke detection App Smart home features Digital display Powered by electricity Batteries BBB Review Best for
ADT $24.79 Pro No Yes Yes No Yes Yes A+ Setup options
SimpliSafe $50 DIY No No No No No Yes A+ Contacting emergencies
Nest $119.99 DIY Yes Yes Yes No No Yes A- Smart integrations
Ring $34.99 DIY Yes Yes Yes No No Yes C App performance
Kidde Battery-Operated $19 Pro No No No Yes No Yes A- Simple info
First Alert CO400 $19.33 DIY No No No No No Yes A- Location independence
Arikon $21 DIY Yes No No No No Yes NR Outstanding design
Kidde Nighthawk $120 Pro No No No Yes Yes Yes A- Informative readings
First Alert Onelink $172 Pro No Yes Yes No No Yes A- Large budgets
First Alert CO605 $24.79 DIY No No No No Yes Yes A- Protection against outages

Carbon Monoxide Detector Types

CO is a type of gas less dense than air. It has no color, odor, or taste. It is dangerous for humans because it is flammable. People can produce this substance by burning different elements. For example, wood, gasoline, charcoal, among others. Yet, these fuels do not burn completely.

When people do not ventilate instruments or machines, gas will increase. This will then be a risk, especially in enclosed spaces.

For this reason, it is important to have a proper CO detector.

Installing Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Homeowners should place carbon monoxide detectors in strategic areas around the house. Common spaces are a good start. For example, the kitchen and living room. Houses with more than one level should have at least one device on each floor.

There are two types of setups. One with wires and one with batteries. Those with cables work with home electricity. For this reason, users might need professional help.

The second option is easier to install. It is also more useful during a power outage.

  • Make sure to put the device out of reach. In this way, there is no tampering
  • The best place to put a sensor is at knee level.
  • If pets or children live in the house, keep the CO detector at chest length.
  • Take a small carbon monoxide detector during trips. They are easy to plug around.

Benefits of Different Carbon Monoxide Detectors

CO gas is very hard to detect with special devices. For this reason, users should get the top carbon monoxide detectors to keep their families safe at home.

Below is a list of the different benefits a CO detector can offer. Still, remember to check state regulation before buying.

  • Adjust to temperatures: helps to detect more accurately CO levels in the house.
  • Includes clock carbon monoxide alarm: these detectors are quite precise. They have a different sound for each CO PPM they detect. For example, it tells users how quickly they should get out of the house. Yet, always try to leave as soon as possible.
  • Smoke and carbon monoxide detector: some products detect both CO and smoke. With this, users don’t need to buy two separate devices.
  • Smart features: High-tech carbon monoxide detectors include monitoring via mobile app.

Medical Effects of CO and How to Recognize Them

CO is toxic to the human body. It does not let the blood circulate as it normally does. This means it can not carry oxygen to the vital organs. These include the heart and the brain.

When a person has CO inside his or her body, the gas combines with oxygen. In this way, the hemoglobin turns into carboxyhemoglobin. Its increase will depend on the amount of gas and time of exposure. This is why having a good set of carbon monoxide detectors in place is important.

People can measure this with PPM (measured in parts per million). Carboxyhemoglobin can remain inside the human being for around five hours. After that, a person’s state will go back to normal.

In the charts below, learn about the symptoms and CO poisoning effects.

Concentration and Symptoms

This chart shows the symptoms in relation to the concentration of CO:

CO Percentage Symptoms and Effects
10% No symptoms (Some smokers can reach up to 9% CO)
15% Slight headache
25% “Nausea and a strong headache
(need oxygen or fresh air to recover fast)”
30% Symptoms intensify
(Can bring long term effects especially
in risk groups like infants, children,
the elderly, people with heart disease
and pregnant women)
45% Unconsciousness
50%+ Death

Symptoms of Concentration Levels

It is not easy to measure CO levels. People usually express them in airborne concentration levels (PPM) and time of exposure. Here goes a table with different PPMs and symptoms.

CO PPM Time Symptoms
35 PPM 8 hours OSHA established this maximum
of exposure in the workplace
200 PPM 2-3 hours Slight headache,
fatigue, and dizziness
400 PPM 1-2 hours Strong headache.
Other symptoms can intensify
800 PPM 45 minutes “Nausea and convulsions
(Unconscious within 2 hrs,
death within 3 hrs)”
1,600 PPM 20 minutes “Headache and nausea
(Death within 1 hr)”
3,200 PPM 5-10 minutes Headache and nausea
(Death within 1 hr)
6,400 PPM 1-2 minutes Headache and nausea
(Death within 25-30 min.)
12,800 PPM 1-3 minutes Death

How Can I Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?

CO poisoning is quite a risk. Yet, people can prevent it. Most importantly, they should have carbon monoxide detectors inside the house. But that’s not all.

They should also be cautious and follow the tips below.

Dos

  • Vent anything that works with gas properly
  • Check the home chimney at least once a year
  • Place carbon monoxide detectors in common spaces around the house
  • Be cautious when cooking in camping sites

Don’ts

  • Avoid burning gas grills inside the house
  • Avoid heating with a gas range such as stove or oven
  • Never keep the car running inside the garage with the door closed
  • Never seal vent pipes. CO will leak into the house
  • Avoid burning charcoal indoors
  • Never use a generator inside the house or at a distance of twenty feet from doors, windows, and garage
  • Never start and automobile if the tailpipe is blocked

FAQ Section

  • What is CO, and Why do Users Need Carbon Monoxide Detectors?

    CO is a toxic gas. It has no color, odor, or taste. And it is made of combustion. It is dangerous for humans because it is flammable.

    Some examples of CO producing tools around the house include:

    • Cars
    • Charcoal grills
    • Woodstoves and fireplaces
    • Fuel fired furnaces
    • Gas ranges and water heaters

    CO poisoning is quite a risk. Especially as the gas is hard to detect. For this reason, people should have proper protection against this gas around the house.

  • How do Carbon Monoxide Detectors Work?

    Carbon monoxide detectors perceive the toxic gas and send out an alarm. Each CO detector has different types of alerts.

    • Biomimetic CO detector: this device includes a special gel. It changes color when it detects CO. The change of color sets off the alarm.
    • Carbon monoxide detectors with metal oxide: it has a built-in circuitry. This system lowers the electrical resistance when it perceives CO. This, in turn, triggers the alarm.
    • Electrochemical CO detector: this one features electrodes. When they get in touch with CO, they change their electrical currents. This will send out the alert.

  • What Should I Do if my Carbon Monoxide Detector Sets Off an Alert?

    The steps to follow are easy but essential:

    • Don’t panic and stay calm
    • Get everyone in the house together and go outside
    • Check each member’s health. If they have any signs of infection, dial 911.
    • Make sure to open all doors and windows before leaving the house.
    • Avoid getting in the house till the alarm stops.
    • Call professionals for help. They should check all fuel-burning instruments. And if CO is leaking somewhere. This will prevent another incident.

  • Where Should I Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors?

    Users should first check state regulations. Some local laws ask homeowners or business companies to have carbon monoxide detectors.

    Users should have enough CO detectors to cover the whole house. This should include all levels, such as the cellar and the attic. Try to place them in strategic places.

  • Which Carbon Monoxide Detector Should I Buy?

    There are a variety of options to choose from. The cheapest CO detector can either have wires or batteries. They also have a loud alarm when it detects CO. Users can place them easily around the house.

    Homeowners can also get smart models. These allow users to control their houses with their mobile app.

    The best carbon monoxide detector is that which suits the house needs.

  • What Can Produce CO gas?

    CO is a toxic gas hard to detect. Some people call it the “silent and invisible killer.” People can produce it when they burn something. It could be gasoline, wood, oil, charcoal, or any other fuel.

    When this happens, CO spreads in the air. This can be dangerous when the area is small or enclosed. There is not enough space for the gas to dissipate. So, anything that burns can create CO.

    Here goes a list of the most common appliances that produce CO inside the house:

    • Gas ranges (grills, stoves, oven)
    • Fuel-burning water heaters
    • Generators
    • Chain saws

    People need to use all those elements carefully. Remember that CO has no smell or color. So one can not perceive it alone.

  • How Should Users Check Their Carbon Monoxide Detectors?

    Many carbon monoxide detectors last for a long time. They can work for around five years. Yet, it will depend on the model of the CO detector. Users should wipe the device every week. In this way, they keep all dust out of it.

    People should also test the CO detector every month. They can check if the siren works by pushing the “test” button. If the alert system is not working, they should purchase a new model.

Win the Battle Against the Invisible Killer

Turn the home into a safe space for everybody with a CO listener. There are devices for every type of customer, no matter their budget.

Before going for one, check if it has the desired functions, like smart home integration. There are no excuses to be protected against these emissions in 2021.


Editorial Staff

Jerry Carter is an experienced writer and has a passion for content development for varied projects. Jerry had been studying law at university when he realized that only writing could satisfy his adventurist spirit and his desire for knowledge. As a person with many unusual hobbies, he is also interested in security and modern technology.


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