Basic Guide to Carbon Monoxide Alarm Types

Carbon Monoxide alarm detector, or CO Alarm, is an essential detection device for all households. It is enforced by many law agencies around the world as a mandatory device.

Nevertheless, not many businesses or households have one installed because the dangers of carbon monoxide is often underestimated.

Each year, there are about 100 reported incidents involving carbon monoxide poisoning in US alone. Because carbon monoxide is tasteless, odorless and colorless, it cannot be detected by human and is known as the “silent killer”. Early symptoms of CO exposure include dizziness, lightheadedness, and shortness of breath. Special instrument like carbon monoxide alarm is required to prevent prolonged exposures to it. Even with low CO concentration, it can be harmful to human health over longer period.

The alarm detects and measures concentration level over time and will trigger an alarm whenever that upper limit is breached.

For household with indoor furnace or areas with poor ventilation, a carbon monoxide alarm should be installed for safety measure. Common areas of installation include kitchen, bathroom and living room.

Below are the 4 main types of carbon monoxide alarm detector:

Battery-operated Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarm

The standalone battery operated type operates on battery. 2-year, 3-year, 5-year and 10-year battery type are available.

Wireless interlink variant is also available. This allows the CO alarm detector to communicate with one another, or send signal to the central alarm system to trigger an area-wide alarm for evacuation.

Hardwire / Plug-type Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarm

This plug-in type of carbon monoxide alarm detector is the traditional type which allows for constant supply of power to the device. However, it is still recommended to test the alarm detector every few months to ensure everything is working properly.

Combination Smoke and CO Alarm

This is the latest development which combines smoke and CO alarm detection function in one device. This 2-in-1 function makes it ideal to save space for a minimalist feel.

Portable Carbon Monoxide Alarm Detector

This type is mostly used by businesses, where property managers, inspector or safety professionals carry the portable type around to detect the source of CO leak.

For any inquiry, please consult with one of our alarm specialists for more information.