Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless gas that can be deadly if inhaled in high concentrations. It is produced by the incomplete combustion of fuels, such as gas, oil, and wood. As such, investing in a reliable carbon monoxide detector is essential. But with so many options to choose from, what are the best Carbon Monoxide Detectors for Home?
That’s what this article is all about. As its moniker suggests, a carbon monoxide detector is a device that detects the presence of CO in the air. It sounds an alarm to warn you of a CO leak, giving you time to evacuate your home safely. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best carbon monoxide detectors for homes available in the UK. Each of these CO detectors offers unique features to keep your home safe.
But first, you might want to check out the following:
- Keep track of the air inside with these air quality monitors for homes.
- Check out these cool robot vacuum cleaners and mops to help you keep your house clean.
- If you’re on a tight budget, consider getting a handheld vacuum cleaner for under £100.
1. Kidde 5CO
With over 23,000 user ratings, the Kidde 5CO is the highest-rated carbon monoxide alarm on Amazon. The Kidde 5CO features a simple yet functional design. The 5CO continuously monitors the CO levels and sounds an alarm when it detects higher levels.
On that note, the device comes with a very loud 85dB alarm, which works in conjunction with a flashing LED light. Of course, the highlight is its affordability, and the device provides essential CO detection without breaking the bank.
What We Like
What We Don’t Like
2. X-Sense CO03D
Similar to the Kidde 5CO, the X-Sense CO03D also comes with a loud 85dB alarm. Additionally, it also features a rapid flashing red LED indicator. On the flip side, the detector also packs in a hush feature. This can be used to silence the continuous beeping if required.
Of course, the major improvement over the Kidde 5CO is the inclusion of a display. The X-Sense CO03D features a clear and easy-to-read LED display that shows real-time CO concentration levels. Additionally, while the sensor has a 10-year life span, you might need to replace the 1.5 V AA batteries. Thankfully, there’s a low-battery alert on this as well, which ensures you never have to compromise on your safety.
What We Like
What We Don’t Like
3. Scondaor Carbon Monoxide Alarm Detector
In terms of the design, the Scondaor Carbon Monoxide Alarm Detector has a minimal look to it. However, it’s quite functional. For instance, the detector can even stand on its side, which makes it super easy to prop up on a flat surface. Apart from that, it packs in a large digital LCD display coupled with three LED lights.
The display shows real-time CO concentration, along with the temperature reading. Both the figures alternate every 22 seconds, so you don’t have to press a button to get a number on the data. As for the lights, the device exhibits a green light, indicating everything is working normally, and it flashes a red light during an alarm. Finally, there’s the yellow light that flashes twice every 22 seconds to indicate a fault or malfunction in the detector.
What We Like
What We Don’t Like
4. X-Sense XC04-WX
The X-Sense XC04-WX can be connected to your Wi-Fi network. This way, you can receive real-time notifications if CO levels are too high. It also offers the ability to silence the alarm remotely from your smartphone. Speaking of the alarm, it is quite loud at 85dB. The XC04-WX comes with a Figaro CO sensor with a lifespan of 10 years.
And if you don’t wish to connect it to your smartphone, the X-Sense XC04-WX also has a digital display that shows the CO level in the air. As for the design, the XC04-WX can be wall-mounted, or mounted on the ceiling. Alternatively, it also has a free-standing design similar to the Scondaor Detector if you wish to place it on a table.
What We Like
What We Don’t Like
5. FireAngel FA3322
Most products on this list feature removable or replaceable batteries. While that’s convenient, it also makes the CO detector prone to tampering and faults. That’s not the case with the FireAngel FA3322. It comes with a sealed-for-life battery, which will easily last up to 10 years.
The FA3322 detector features a nice and stylish design, with a circular display in the centre. Unlike most detectors that offer LEDs, the FA3322 has a colour display. The colour changes in accordance with the CO levels. It can also monitor temperature and humidity, which is excellent. And while it also has an 85dB alarm, you can choose to silence it for up to eight hours as well.
What We Like
What We Don’t Like
6. Google Nest Protect
The Nest Protect uses voice alerts to let you know about potential dangers, such as increasing levels of smoke or carbon monoxide. This is much more effective and intuitive than a traditional alarm. It also has a nightlight that turns on when you walk underneath it, so you can easily find your way around in the dark.
In terms of smart features, the Nest Protect can be connected to your Wi-Fi network. It also offers smartphone connectivity, allowing you to receive real-time alerts and monitor your home’s safety status remotely. The Nest Protect also tests itself regularly, so you can be sure that it is always working properly. And with a 10-year lifespan, you don’t have to worry about replacing it for a long time.
What We Like
What We Don’t Like
FAQs on Best Carbon Monoxide Detectors for Home
A carbon monoxide detector is an essential safety device that can help protect you and your family from carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide detectors are designed to detect the presence of CO in the air and sound an alarm if levels become dangerously high. It’s crucial because CO is colourless, odourless, and highly toxic.
Yes, some models, like the Google Nest Protect, offer both CO and smoke detection in a single device for comprehensive home safety.
While CO detectors are low-maintenance, it’s advisable to test them monthly using the test button and keep them free from dust and debris
Monitor the CO Levels with Ease
Well, that was our list of the best Carbon Monoxide detectors for home. When choosing a carbon monoxide detector, it is important to consider the features that are important to you, such as the lifespan, alarm volume, and connectivity. If money isn’t an issue, then Google Nest Protect is easily the best option out there. If you still want smart features but at a lesser price point, the X-Sense XC04-WX is worth checking out. Finally, if all you need is a barebone yet effective CO alarm, the Kidde 5CO is a safe bet.
Was this helpful?
Last updated on 05 September, 2023
The article above may contain affiliate links which help support Guiding Tech. The content remains unbiased and authentic and will never affect our editorial integrity.