13 Best CO Detector Right Now [Buyer’s Guide]
We know the importance of smoke alarms, but what about Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarms? Numerous appliances emit CO like gas stoves, gas heaters, and fireplaces. Winter is here, which means ’tis the season to be jolly with our loved ones. Winter also brings about the excess use of heaters and fireplaces during fun (and cold) […] The post 13 Best CO Detector Right Now [Buyer’s Guide] appeared first on Homesthetics - Inspiring ideas for your home..
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We know the importance of smoke alarms, but what about Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarms? Numerous appliances emit CO like gas stoves, gas heaters, and fireplaces.
Winter is here, which means ’tis the season to be jolly with our loved ones. Winter also brings about the excess use of heaters and fireplaces during fun (and cold) family nights. So, it is essential to stay safe from this odorless gas, and we are here to help you with that.
After extensive research on what seemed like hundreds of CO detectors, we finally brought it down to the best 13 that you can count on. Our research allows us to provide you with the pros and cons of these products, which will help you gain a more precise idea.
So, without further ado, let’s get to these CO detectors.
Best CO Detectors
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | |
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Our Top PickOur Top Pick
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Google Nest Protect Smoke And Co Detector |
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Kidde Nighthawk Plug-in CO Detector |
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Kidde CO Detector Alarm - Battery Operated |
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First Alert SCO5CN Smoke And CO Detector Alarm |
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Alert Plus AP-6987 CO Detector Alarm |
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First Alert CO400 CO Alarm |
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Kidde KN-COEG-3 CO And Explosive Gas Alarm |
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HSTMYFS BRJ-502 Natural Digital Gas Leak Detector |
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X-Sense SC01 Smoke And CO Detector |
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VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
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Alert Pro GS508C Smoke And CO Detector |
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VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
One of our top recommendations for CO detectors has to be Google’s very own Nest Protect Alarm. With an option to buy the wired version or the battery version, this CO detector is perfect for detecting smoke and CO in residential complexes. This detector is packed with some amazing features which make it relatively easy to understand and handle.
- Smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector that speaks up...
- Split Spectrum Sensor looks for both fast burning and...
- Get phone alerts so you know something’s wrong even when...
- CO detector looks out for carbon monoxide and tells you...
Why Did We Like It?
One of the most exciting features about this CO detector is its user-friendliness, thanks to the app it connects to.
The app walks you through the detector’s setup and installation in a very easy to understand manner and allows you to test the whole setup. Also, phone alerts allow the app to inform you of any issue, even when you are not home.
Instead of a loud beeping noise that tends to be a bit annoying, this detector speaks up to inform you about any CO or smoke detection.
Another great thing about this detector is that it can also act as a nightlight. Through the app, you can control the light’s intensity and configure it to light up the way as you walk.
What Could’ve Been Better?
One of the most significant downsides to this CO detector is the cost. It is a bit on the higher price range as opposed to its competitors. Also, a common issue that is being faced is the need to reset the whole system in case there is a network change or it disconnects.
- Easy to set up
- Administers self-checks
- Connectivity with a phone as well as other nest devices
- Can be loud (if needed)
- Great tech support
- Higher cost compared to competitors
- Resetting the alarm could be inconvenient
Next on this list is the Kidde Nighthawk CO detector, a super convenient and affordable detector. This lightweight detector may seem tiny but is packed with powerful features that allow it to perform optimally. Being a known brand in the world of CO detectors, this tiny device can keep your home and your family safe.
- Peak level button – Displays the peak CO level recorded by...
- Test button functions – Tests the unit for proper...
- LED operation – Blinking dot in lower right corner of...
- Ten years after the initial power up, this alarm will...
Why Did We Like It?
First off, this CO detector is exceptionally adaptable in terms of how you want to use it. Not only can you plug this in a socket, but also set it up away from a socket because of the cord provided. You will also be able to mount it vertically even if the socket is horizontal because of the flexible plug-in unit.
Moreover, this CO detector comes with a short term battery backup so you can use it even when the lights go out.
The LED display is also worth mentioning. It is accurate and easy to read and has a sensor that indicates the status of the detector. So, you know if the machine is working or not.
What Could’ve Been Better?
In trying to figure out the downside to this detector, we came across one very commonly mentioned aspect. While the detector promises loud beeping to alert you, there have been difficulties in making the beeping noise stop.
Plus, there have also been many instances where there were false alarms and low battery indications where the loud beeping turned into a never-ending shrill.
- Easy to mount
- Informative LED display
- Adaptable and flexible usage
- Affordable
- High chance of false alarms
Another great CO detector from the same company as that of our previous recommendation is the battery-operated Kidde CO Detector Alarm. With almost similar features as the plug-in variant, this one is easier to use and also the most affordable on this list.
- 2 AA battery backup
- Low battery hushes
- Event memory
- Loud 85 decibel alarm
Why Did We Like It?
The first thing that stood out for us was the cost to value ratio. This CO detector is by far the most affordable yet has all the features of its high costing competitors. This machine has an event memory feature where it tells you when the last time (in 14 days) a high CO level was detected in its vicinity.
This machine has most of the standard features like a test/reset button, loud beeping for alerts, and a low battery indicator but at a lower price.
Another significant aspect is that it is long-lasting (5-7 years), which is hardly expected from such a small and affordable machine.
Being fully battery-operated also means you don’t have to depend on electricity to detect the CO levels in your house.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Much like the Kidde alarm we reviewed before this one, it also has a history of false alarms. But the vital downside to this detector is that once it reaches the end of its lifetime, it will not stop beeping, which can be disturbing to not just you but the people around you.
- Easy access to batteries
- Does not depend on electricity
- Cost-efficient
- Has a long life
- Different color lights for specific indications
- Unnecessary loud beeping
This one is the affordable alternative to the Google Nest Protect Alarm we first reviewed. This device can detect smoke as well as CO leakages and is ideal for installation in residential complexes.
- Keep your family safe with this battery operated smoke and...
- Features an electrochemical carbon monoxide sensing...
- Indicator lights on the face of the unit display the...
- Battery operated unit installs quickly and easily without an...
Why Did We Like It?
For us, it was the use of accurate technology. After all, who wants a smoke detector to go off every time you decide to cook a nice meal or take a hot shower?
The fact that it can be installed in cooking areas makes it easier to detect CO levels if you are using a gas stove. It can also be installed in your room if it has a fireplace. So, the photoelectric sensor is quite handy.
Another very interesting feature was that the machine came with multiple mounting holes, so you can replace your old CO detector with this one without having to do any additional drilling.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Battery life was one of the downsides we came across. Plus, this CO detector’s design is such that it makes replacing batteries a bit of a tiring task. Since this is a non-verbal machine, some users found it difficult to read the text on the machine, which can be a drawback for people with poor eyesight.
- Simple, reliable, and affordable
- Straightforward installation
- “Chirp” to detect the end of life
- Easy to replace with older smoke detectors
- One button for test/silence making it less complicated to use
- Original batteries may not last long
- It might be too sensitive
The Alert Pro CO detector is a small but efficient device. It guarantees optimum safety to home and office spaces like warehouses and factories at a low cost. It is an easy to use option and is ideal for people who want a simple machine that does what it says.
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SUPERIOR ALARM PERFORMANCE: Proven performance for... -
Unit Comes With with Long Live Batteries
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5 year manufacturer warranty
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100% customer satisfaction guaranteed. if you dont...
Why Did We Like It?
This device is extremely easy to use, and that is what stood out for us. It is battery-operated and can be wall-mounted. So, you don’t need to depend on finding a socket, plus the batteries are included.
The flexibility in terms of where you can use this device, combined with how cost-efficient it is, makes this one of our top recommendations.
One great thing about this device is that it has human voice prompts that give it a nice touch. Also, it has a display that is clear to read and quite useful.
That’s not all; the Alert Plus has an inbuilt siren as well that alerts its users in case of high CO levels. The siren is loud and can even be heard behind closed doors.
What Could’ve Been Better?
A common complaint with this product is that sometimes, the batteries included with it are faulty. Compared to others in this price range, there are devices available with many smart features like Wi-Fi connectivity and phone alerts that this one lacks.
- Easy to set up
- Does not consume electricity
- User friendly
- Loud and audible siren
- Affordable
- Faulty batteries
- No smart features
If you are looking for a reliable device that will last long and keep your family safe, this is the one for you. Our next recommendation is this battery-operated machine by First Alert. Although it may look like a tiny device, it is equipped with powerful features that are bound to meet your expectations and keep your space CO free.
- Keep your family safe with this easy to use, battery...
- Features an advanced electrochemical carbon monoxide sensor...
- A loud 85 decibel alarm sounds when CO levels reach...
- To ensure complete protection make sure to place one on each...
Why Did We Like It?
Since First Alert is a known brand for CO and smoke detectors, their devices are of top quality. They use electrochemical sensors for their devices, which are far superior to other sensors.
First Alert offers a seven-year warranty on this product. It has an inbuilt timer that beeps when the device is close to expiring. So, you will never be caught off guard.
This easy to install device comes with a test/silence button so you can mute unnecessary noise or test it whenever you like. Also, it has a fail-safe battery compartment that ensures the battery doesn’t fall out. Hence, reducing device malfunctioning.
Since this device is small and portable, you can consider carrying it wherever you go for your peace of mind.
What Could’ve Been Better?
First Alert has a range of devices, each with a different price and a different life span, which users might not be aware of. It is important to take note that the least expensive has a more limited warranty compared to the most expensive.
Another downside is that the device drains out the battery quite fast, so it would be helpful to have spares on hand.
- Travel friendly
- Easy to use and set up
- Loud ring to alert users (85 decibels)
- End of life alert
- Needs regular battery changes
This Kidde plug-in detector hits two birds with one stone! This machine can detect CO as well as explosive gases in your residential space. It has multiple mounting options and can also be battery-operated. So, you can count on this flexible, easy to use machine to keep your family safe and healthy.
- Protects you and your family from two deadly threats: Carbon...
- Sounder alarm – The KN-COEG-3 offers a loud 85-decibel...
- Digital display - Displays the level of carbon monoxide the...
- Peak level memory - Recalls the highest CO concentration...
Why Did We Like It?
The most impressive feature was that the device could detect and display CO as well as explosive gases like propane and methane. Also, it updates itself every 15 seconds and reads out the CO level in the room.
The machine is equipped with one test/reset button and a peak level button that displays the highest CO level recorded by the machine (since its last reset).
It is a flexible device as it has multiple mounting options. You could mount it on a table top or a wall away from a power socket, thanks to the retractable cord, or directly plug it in. The choice is yours!
Another great feature is that this device comes with a 9V battery, so you don’t have to depend on electricity for the safety of your family.
What Could’ve Been Better?
This device has no smart feature to inform you about a gas leak or high CO levels if you are not in the house. Also, there has been a recurring complaint about false alarms, especially after battery changes.
- Easy to read display
- Light sensor to show if the device is working
- Audible alarm
- Plug-in plus battery backup
- High chances of false alarms
If you’re on the lookout for a gas detector that can alert you about multiple threats, then your search ends here! This natural gas leak detector is versatile as it can detect LPG, natural gas, coal gas, gal fuel, liquified petroleum gas, and liquified natural gas. It may look tiny, but it is powerful enough to keep your home and office safe.
- 【Detect Multiple Gases】- Home gas detector suitable for...
- 【LED Digital Display & Sound Warning】- Gas Detector...
- 【Easy to Install】- Gas leak detector adopts...
- 【Widely Applyed 】-This product can be used as...
Why Did We Like It?
The first thing that caught our eye was the versatility of this tiny device. It uses a calefaction type sensor that is ideal for detecting multiple gases. Long story short, its versatility makes it ideal for not just your home but also any commercial space like hospitals, gas stations, oil factories, and hotels.
The machine has a user-friendly design with three indicators on it. The independent indicators make it easier for the user to distinguish between the alarm, state of the machine, and power button.
Also, it is equipped with an easy to read LED display and a very loud alarm so you can be alerted even if you are not in the same room.
Lastly, this detector is quite sensitive to many gases that ordinary CO or smoke detectors might miss out on.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Since natural gases rise, the user manual instructs that the machine should be placed near the ceiling. However, not everyone has a socket near the ceiling. So, it is worth noting that the machine does not have a power cord or mounting sockets in the back.
- Great at detecting natural gases
- Sensitive sensor
- Loud alarm along with LED Display
- User-friendly design
- No power cord or mounting sockets
Make way for a long-lasting 2 in 1 detector that will definitely keep your family healthy and safe. The X-Sense smoke and CO detector is an excellent mid-high range detector that assures quality along with a long warranty for the battery and sensor. This easy to use and install machine has a sleek design that makes it appealing to look at as well.
- 10-Year Battery & 10-Year Sensor: This smoke and carbon...
- Practical LCD Display: Clearly indicates real-time carbon...
- 2-in-1 Accurate, Reliable & Highly Sensitive Alarm: Equipped...
- Simple to Use: Test/Silence button enables you to test the...
Why Did We Like It?
Safety is everyone’s priority. So, who wouldn’t sleep peacefully at night knowing they have a dual detector with a 10-year warranty?
Much like the dual detectors we previously reviewed, this one also uses photoelectric and electrochemical sensors for smoke and CO, respectively. But, it’s the warranty for the battery and the sensor that stands out for us.
The fact that it has a battery that lasts 10 years saves some cost on energy and makes this product eco friendly.
The device has an easy to read display and a loud alarm. You wouldn’t have to squint your eyes to read or worry about not being able to hear the alarm from another room.
Last but not the least, it also has an on/off/deactivate button. It’s a small addition to a regular on/off button but is of great help once it completes 10 years. Pro tip: after 10 years it is advised to deactivate and change the machine rather than replacing the batteries.
What Could’ve Been Better?
One of the most common complaints with this product is related to its overall design. There might be a need for additional drilling to mount this as it doesn’t always fit in the pre-existing holes you might have made for other detectors.
- Long-lasting and durable
- Easy to read display
- Loud alarm
- Eco friendly
- The design might make it difficult to mount
The alert pro dual detector is similar to the previous one we reviewed but comes at a lower price. If you are looking for a simple CO and smoke detector that is affordable and durable, this is the one. Ideal for residential spaces, this dual detector will ensure that you and your family are safe and healthy.
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Smoke Detector and Carbon Monoxide Detector Alarm...
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This Smoke& carbon monoxide detector suitable for all...
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When carbon monoxide and smoke rise to alarm levels,...
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Dual high stability sensors- Minimize carbon monoxide...
Why Did We Like It?
This small and efficient device is suited perfectly for people who are looking for a 2 in 1 detector at an affordable price. This machine has everything you need to ensure the safety of your family members.
The device is equipped with a test/silence button and also has a self-test function where it beeps to let you know that it is working. Furthermore, it has a loud and audible alarm, so you can hear it even when you are asleep.
That’s not all; the device is easy to install as it just needs to be mounted. Its compact design ensures that the machine is discrete and blends in well with the house. Lastly, it comes with batteries included and also has a five-year warranty.
What Could’ve Been Better?
As previously mentioned, this detector comes with batteries. However, a downside to this is that the batteries included might not always be of good quality, increasing the chances of device malfunctions. So, it’s advised to keep spare batteries from a brand you trust.
- Self-testing function
- Loud alarm
- Easy to install
- Affordable
- Batteries included could be of bad quality
This particular detector alerts the users about CO as well as natural gases like methane. Available with and without display, this device is easy to install and use. Once carefully plugged into every room or level of your house, this small yet efficient device will keep you and your family away from potential harm.
- Reliable plug-in carbon monoxide and natural gas alarm
- Microprocessor intelligence helps eliminate nuisance alarms...
- Compact design covers only one outlet — No wiring required
- Designed with end-of-service life warning signals and a...
Why Did We Like It?
One of the best things about this product is that it has a very sensitive sensor and picks up a leak almost instantly.
The “with display” variant has a digital display that reads out GAS if there is any kind of leak. Also, it has a memory button that can record peak occurrences.
Moving on, this dual detector is extremely easy to install as it is a plug-in, and in the event of a power shortage, it also has a battery backup. Since the device is a plug-in, it makes it easier to replace older installations as no wiring is required.
The device itself has a five-year limited warranty, and the battery has a seven-year warranty from the moment it is activated. Much like previously reviewed products, this one also alerts its users when it’s time to change the batteries.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Its material is an issue since this is a plug-in machine. Since it is made out of plastic, there is a possibility that the machine will overheat, causing it to malfunction or completely shut down. But apart from that, this CO detector works quite well.
- Can detect leaks instantly
- Dual sensor
- Plug-in plus battery backup
- End of life alert
- Can overheat
This is another excellent dual sensor that protects your family from smoke and CO without breaking the bank. This CO and smoke detector is ideal for your residence. It is easy to install and is loud enough to be heard by everyone in the house. It will protect your home and alert you instantly, even if it is a slow-burning fire.
- [2-in-1 Accurate, Reliable & Highly Sensitive Alarm] Smoke...
- [Practical LCD Display] Carbon Monoxide Detector clearly...
- [Test/Silence Button] Tests the unit for proper operation...
- [Easy to Install and Use] Smoke detector and carbon monoxide...
Why Did We Like It?
Straight off the bat, the fact that it is quite affordable and a highly sensitive 2 in 1 detector is what caught our eye!
The machine has multiple LED lights that indicate various things. The red light indicates that there is an occurrence and flashes when the alarm rings. On the other hand, the green light indicates to the users that the machine is working fine.
It has an easy to read display that reads out the CO concentration in the surrounding air.
Also, this device is extremely easy to install as it comes with a screw and a template for accurate drilling. Being battery-operated means that you can mount this anywhere without any wiring needed.
That’s not all; it comes with a battery pry, so you can open and close the lid with ease. The batteries are in the front of the device, so you don’t need to remove it after mounting.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Although the flashing green light is great as an indication of a working machine, the light itself is too bright. A common complaint about this product is that the green can be a little disturbing, especially if you are trying to sleep.
- Accurate display readings
- Sensitive dual sensors
- Compact and easy to understand design
- Value for money
- The green light is too bright
This one is a relatively simple yet effective CO detector. The Coreel detector is affordable, efficient, and compact. It uses an electrochemical sensor to detect an occurrence and has a photoelectric sensor that reduces unnecessary alarms. Plus, the machine is easy to install, use and guarantees 100% customer satisfaction.
- Carbon Monoxide Detector Beeping once Detecting CO gas.
- Co Alarm Detector Using High Accurate Electrochemical Sensor...
- 2 Pieces AA Battery - Powered Co Detector. Easy to Install....
- Apply for All The Place to Produce Carbon Monoxide.
Why Did We Like It?
Any detector needs to have a loud alarm so it can be heard over electronic appliances or even when people are asleep. As such, this machine makes a loud beeping sound that cannot be ignored.
There is nothing complex about this device – it is simple in terms of design, installation, and use. It has sockets on the back so it can be mounted easily as a new or a replacement machine.
The Coreel CO detector constantly monitors the CO level in the surrounding air that can be read on the digital display screen. Plus, it is battery-operated, so you do not have to worry about wiring and power outage.
Coreel offers a five-year warranty on this product as well as 100% customer satisfaction for a very affordable price. And that is rare to find!
What Could’ve Been Better?
A recurring complaint with this product is that there is no battery included, unlike most of its competitors. Plus, the device seems to work best with branded batteries instead of any generic brand, which can be inconvenient for some people.
- Guaranteed satisfaction and five-year warranty
- Affordable
- Loud beeping
- Easy to install
- No batteries included with the device
CO Detector Buyer’s Guide
Buying something for the safety of your family can be difficult. But it is essential to make the right choice and buy the best products available.
After reading about 13 products, each one as unique as the next, coming to a conclusive decision could be hard. There are multiple things to consider while buying a detector as well as after buying one.
Even if the price is not important, there are many other crucial boxes to tick to ensure that the product you have is the one you trust.
For those purposes, we have made a comprehensive guide with some key points. Hopefully, this will clear out some of your doubts and help you make a quicker decision. Let’s get to it.
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Types
There are multiple types of detectors, some of which we have reviewed today, to choose from. You can pick a dual detector, i.e., ones that detect CO and other gases/smoke, digital CO detectors, smart CO detectors that connect to your phone via apps, and many more.
It is important to keep a note of the kind best suited to your interest. Also, any local regulations about the types you are allowed to have in your home or office space are something you must consider.
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To Plug Or Not To Plug?
Do you live in an area that has frequent power outages? Then it would be best to purchase a battery-operated machine. However, buying a battery-operated device could mean frequent battery changes and additional expenses.
It is important to keep in mind that a gas leak or smoke threat can happen at any time. So, try to select a device that can be plugged in but also has a long-lasting battery backup. This way, you can get the best of both worlds, are always protected, and don’t have to worry about unnecessary battery changes in the middle of the night.
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Features
While there are endless features you can get in a device (thanks to advancing technology), there is only a handful that you need to be aware of.
Human voice alerts to update you about the air surrounding you, and digital screens are quite handy. The voice alerts are better compared to regular beeping as they are softer, while digital screens clearly read out everything you need to know.
It is also helpful to have your devices connected to your phone via apps so that you can monitor your house even in your absence.
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Where To Install The Detector
Doubts regarding installation are common among a lot of new buyers. In terms of location within the house, it is advisable to put one in every room, hallway, and near staircases. If you have a multistoried house, put one on each level.
Do not put them next to windows or doors where external factors can tamper with the machine’s readings. Also, do not place it in the garage since that can cause false alarms.
Verdict
As we keep installing more and more appliances to make our homes tech-savvy, we need to be aware of the ones that emit CO to keep ourselves safe. CO being odorless can be fatal, and the first symptom that indicates that you might be exposed can be as general as the flu, so you might never even know until it’s too late.
To reiterate, we feel that if you are willing to splurge a little, the Google Nest Protect Alarm is an excellent choice because of its fantastic connectivity and convenience. But if you are looking for a smoke and CO detector with all the essential features and yet is super affordable, First Alert is the one for you.
Let us know if we missed out on any great CO/Natural Gas/Smoke detectors that you definitely recommend.
On that note, that’s us signing off. Stay safe and be healthy!
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