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After conducting a comprehensive evaluation of Carbon Monoxide Detectors, we have compiled a list of our top 5 recommended options below.
Carbon monoxide is a dangerous gas. It doesn’t have a smell or taste, so you can’t detect it when you breathe it into your nose or mouth. It’s also colorless, so you won’t see it in the air. Since it’s so poisonous, you need a carbon monoxide detector to keep your home safe.
These five carbon monoxide alarms are the best available, each with its own special perk. If you’re looking for a specific carbon monoxide detector, check out these choices.
Best Overall Carbon Monoxide Detector: First Alert Onelink Safe and Sound – See at Amazon
First Alert offers quality carbon monoxide detectors, but Onelink Safe and Sound allows voice control, simplifying the process of keeping your home air healthy.
Best Smart Carbon Monoxide Detector: Google Nest Protect – See at Amazon
Google Nest Protect has voice commands that give you an early warning about your home’s air quality. It can pinpoint the location and send phone alerts.
Best Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector: Amazon Smart Air Quality Monitor – See at Amazon
The option of knowing details about your air quality makes the Amazon option ideal. You can sync it with Echo or Alexa to activate voice controls.
Best Portable Carbon Monoxide Detector: X-Sense Carbon Monoxide Detector Alarm. You can move this to anywhere you want, kitchen, bedroom, you name it – See at Amazon
You won’t have to worry about replacing the batteries when you choose a hardwired detector connected to your power supply.
Best Battery-Powered Carbon Monoxide Detector: Kidde Carbon Monoxide Alarm – See at Amazon
This battery-powered detector uses AA batteries instead of the elusive 9-volts. You’ll always have replacement batteries on hand since they’re so common.
There are plenty of carbon monoxide detectors on the market, which is excellent because you can find the best one for your lifestyle. You might want one that syncs with your smart home, one that uses batteries, or one you can hardwire into your power supply.
Read on to learn about the 12 best options and what they have to offer.
The Google Nest Protect carbon monoxide detector includes an app that sends alerts directly to your phone. You’ll get notices about your home’s air quality when you’re at work or away, and you can silence the alarm via the app.
You can connect this device with other smart devices, so it’s great for people who strive to automate home maintenance. In addition to carbon monoxide detection, Google Nest Protect will also inform you about smoke, making it worth the investment.
The price for this detector is higher than many on the list, but it’s from Google and integrates with other apps. It also lasts for ten years, making it worth the investment. However, you can’t replace the batteries in this unit; you have to replace it entirely.
| Dimensions | Weight | Loudness |
Power Source |
Battery Type |
Battery Life |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
5.3 x 1.5 x 5.3 inches |
1 lb |
85 db |
Battery |
6 x AA Batteires |
Max 5 Years |
Another ideal carbon monoxide detector is the First Alert Onelink Safe and Sound. This smart alarm uses your WiFi network to communicate with each detector in your home. The network streamlines the types of alerts you get and pinpoints the leak location for better security.
You can download the app and get alerts on your phone, including the option to silence the alarm when it goes off. It will also detect smoke, so you’re getting two detectors for the price of one with this purchase.
These features make the First Alert Onelink Safe and Sound incredibly expensive, but it’s worth the investment since the battery lasts for ten years and provides impressive safety. The major downside is that you can’t replace the battery, so you have to buy an entirely new alarm.
| Dimensions | Weight | Loudness |
Power Source |
Battery Type |
Battery Life |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
7 x 7 x 2 inches |
1.76 lb |
85 db |
Battery |
Lithium Metal |
10 years |
The high-tech Kidde carbon monoxide alarm has a voice alert system that tells you exactly what it finds in the air. The voice alarm will even tell you if the battery is getting low so you can replace it immediately. It takes two AA batteries, so you’ll always have replacements on hand.
Since the alarm uses such common batteries, you’ll know you’re protected even when the power goes out. The detector will use battery power at all times, so you’ll always hear voice alerts for each type of alarm.
Kidde is upfront with their UL certifications, so you can buy confidently knowing they’ve tested their products and guarantee proper protection. You can buy this alarm in bulk, too, which is ideal for people who need more than one to secure their homes.
| Dimensions | Weight | Loudness |
Power Source |
Battery Type |
Battery Life |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2.64 x 1.8 x 5.6 inches |
0.82 lb |
85 db |
Battery |
2 x AA alkaline, replaceble |
1 year |
Get enough alarms for your home when you buy the FIRST ALERT Plug-In Carbon Monoxide Detector. You can get a pack of three in one purchase, ensuring you have an alarm for several rooms in your home for the best results.
Since this model plugs into a standard 120-volt outlet, you don’t need to worry about battery replacements. Instead, you’ll hear a special beep when the alarm reaches the end of its life, which should be at the seven-year mark. At that point, you must replace the unit.
While you should always install a carbon monoxide detector on the wall near doors and sleeping areas, you might have trouble finding an outlet in the ideal location. It’s best to locate your outlets before buying these alarms.
| Dimensions | Weight | Loudness |
Power Source |
Battery Type |
Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
6.75 x 6.9 x 9 inches |
0.76 lb |
85 db |
Plug in |
No backup battery |
7 years |
The Safe-T-Alert Carbon Monoxide Alarm is the perfect solution for people with an RV or camper. Since you use gas-powered tools and stoves while you’re on the road, you’re at a high risk of having carbon monoxide in your enclosed space.
This alarm mounts flush into your RV or camper walls or dashboard to ensure you still have plenty of room inside. It’s UL listed, so you can confidently purchase it and know it will alert you to harmful gas as soon as it’s detected.
In fact, the Safe-T-Alert detects gas leaks, along with carbon monoxide, so you get plenty of protection from one device. Best of all, it uses your 12-volt power supply, so you don’t have to keep up with battery replacements while you travel.
| Dimensions | Weight | Loudness |
Power Source |
Battery Type |
Battery Life |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
12 x 8 x 4 inches |
0.5 Ounces
|
- |
Vehicle's Battery |
3V lithium |
- |
If you already use Amazon and Alexa products, the Amazon Smart Air Quality Monitor allows you to add another element to your smart home system. The monitor checks the air quality and sends information via an app, but you can take it to another level.
You can connect this monitor with Echo or Alexa devices to allow voice commands and streamline your home management system. Instead of checking the details on your phone, you’ll get the information from your Amazon devices.
Note that this monitor doesn’t replace a carbon monoxide detector. It won’t alert you about dangerous levels, so you have to check manually. However, it gives you other information, so it’s worth adding to a carbon monoxide detector purchase.
The five qualities this monitor tracks include particulate matter, volatile organic compounds, carbon monoxide, humidity, and temperature. You’ll get a lot of information from one compact device.
| Dimensions | Weight | Loudness |
Power Source |
Battery Type |
Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1.8 x 2.6 x 2.6 inches |
4.23 ounces |
No Sound Alarm |
AC powered |
N/A |
1 year |
The First Alert Carbon Monoxide Detector has an easy-to-read LED display that shows your carbon monoxide levels and battery life on one screen. A quick glance will help you determine the status of your home and alarm.
This option is battery-powered, so you’ll need to install it on the wall with screws or nails. Since it’s a First Alert product, you can hang it anywhere and know the sensitive sensor will detect any gas in the room.
You’ll use AA batteries for this alarm, which is nice because it’s such a common type of battery. You can easily replace the batteries as needed, either when you hear the correct beep or see the low battery display.
| Dimensions | Weight | Loudness |
Power Source |
Battery Type |
Battery Life |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2.25 x 7 x 8.5 inches |
0.58 lb |
85 dB |
Battery |
Sealed lithium |
7 years |
If you want a long-lasting product, choose the Lecoolife Portable Carbon Monoxide Detector with a ten-year battery life. You can buy a two- or three-pack to ensure you have plenty of alarms for the rooms in your home.
The detector is sleek and compact, so you can install it anywhere in your home, and it won’t attract attention or take up much space. If you put it near your ideal height, you’re able to easily read the digital screen that shows the carbon monoxide levels.
When the levels get too high, you’ll hear the 85-decibel alarm beeping. It also detects smoke, so you’re safe in case of a fire, too. It uses lithium batteries, which the manufacturer includes, but you can’t replace them on your own.
| Dimensions | Weight | Loudness |
Power Source |
Battery Type |
Battery Life |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
5.39 x 5.31 x 4.02 inches
|
1.1 lb
|
85 dB |
Battery |
Sealed lithium |
10 years |
The X-Sense Carbon Monoxide Detector Alarm is one of the most affordable options that includes key features. The LED screen is the biggest draw on this device because it constantly displays the carbon monoxide levels in the room.
It also has a long-term memory that can help you track the carbon monoxide levels in your home for years. You can choose to install this on the wall or prop it on a table, making it a great option for homeowners and renters alike.
The lights on the alarm’s face flash different colors depending on the alert. Green shows it’s on, yellow is a warning, and red represents the alarm. You’ll also hear loud beeps to alert you if you’re in another room.
This carbon monoxide detector uses battery power and comes with lithium batteries. They last for five years, at which point you’ll want to replace them. The device gives a distinct chirp to let you know the batteries are low, or you can check the status on the LED screen.
| Dimensions | Weight | Loudness |
Power Source |
Battery Type |
Battery Life |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
5.3 x 2.5 x 0.6 inches |
3.2 ounces |
More than 85 dB at 10 feet |
Battery |
Lithium metal |
10 years |
You might not want the upkeep of a battery-powered carbon monoxide detector, so you should choose the FIRST ALERT Hardwired Carbon Monoxide Detector. You hardwire this unit into your electrical system, which eliminates battery replacement and simplifies upkeep.
However, the detector includes space for a 9-volt battery, so you’ll have a backup power source. If your power goes out, the alarm will still be able to detect harmful levels of carbon monoxide in the air.
The only downside to this detector is that you have to manually reset it each time it goes off. The alert is an 85-decibel beep that continues to go off until you manually reset the unit’s alarm.
| Dimensions | Weight | Loudness |
Power Source |
Backup Battery |
Battery Life |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
5.53 x 2.09 x 5.72 inches |
0.55 lb |
85 dB at 10 feet |
Hardwired |
9V |
5 years |
The First Alert Plug-In Carbon Monoxide Detector plugs directly into an outlet for easy installation. This feature eliminates the need to regularly replace batteries, but if you have small children, you might not prefer that installation option since it’s at their level.
Another downside is that it covers the entire outlet, so you’ll have one plug blocked wherever you install this alarm. However, if you have a room with plenty of extra outlets, or one never-used outlet, it’s the easiest way to install an alarm—especially for renters.
First Alert alarms always have impressively sensitive sensors that detect carbon monoxide anywhere in the room. This feature means you’ll always have plenty of notice to evacuate the house and get fresh air.
| Dimensions | Weight | Loudness |
Power Source |
Backup Battery |
Battery Life |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
3.4 x 1.38 x 5 inches |
0.55 lb |
85 dB at 10 feet |
Plug in |
9V |
5 years |
The Kidde Nighthawk Carbon Monoxide Detector is another reliable option from the reputable manufacturer, Kidde. This alarm is the easiest to purchase and install because it plugs directly into the outlet and works from there. No need for screws, a drill, or batteries.
If you want the detector to work during power failures, you can install a 9-volt battery as a backup power source. That additional level of protection ensures you’ll always get alerts about your air quality.
The LED screen on the Kidde Nighthawk Carbon Monoxide Detector makes it easy to read the air quality levels. A distinct beep pattern promptly alerts you to unhealthy amounts of carbon monoxide, ensuring you reach fresh air safely.
| Dimensions | Weight | Loudness |
Power Source |
Backup Battery |
Battery Life |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
6.06 x 3.75 x 1.75 inches |
0.55 lb |
85 dB at 10 feet |
Plug in |
9V |
5 years |
There are three standard types of carbon monoxide detectors available for purchase. They vary depending on the sensors, which include:
– Biomimetic
– Electrochemical
– Metal oxide
Biomimetic carbon monoxide detectors have a disc coated with a gel that gets darker when it detects the poison. As soon as the gel changes color, the alarm goes off. It’s a very affordable model of carbon monoxide alarm.
Electrochemical sensors contain a chemical that reacts with carbon monoxide and creates an electrical current. That burst of electricity sets off the alarm to alert you about the air quality. This type is one of the most sensitive options you can find.
Metal oxide is the original type of carbon monoxide sensor. It contains heated tin that reacts to carbon monoxide in the air. These units plug into an electrical outlet or connect to your home’s power supply.
There are other types of carbon monoxide alarms beyond the sensor details. You can find battery-powered or electrical units. You can also find options that include a smoke detector. As technology advances, there are also smart detectors that transmit data to your phone.
You should regularly test your carbon monoxide detector just as you do your smoke alarm. If you use a battery-powered device, you should check the batteries regularly and replace them every six months.
The instruction manual that came with your carbon monoxide alarm should have details about maintenance. Regardless of the information you can find, you should maintain your device regularly to ensure it will alert you to dangerous levels of gas in your air.
It helps to dust the exterior of the carbon monoxide alarm regularly. Since it’s positioned on the wall, you might find that it’s easy to forget. When dust and debris get on the unit, it can interfere with the work of the detector and block necessary sensors.
You can dust your carbon monoxide detector with a dry dust cloth or by using your vacuum’s soft brush attachment. You can also use a can of compressed air to blow the dust away from your device.
Most carbon dioxide detectors last anywhere from five to ten years. You can find specific information in your manufacturer’s handbook. When you get near those benchmarks, ensure you test your alarm thoroughly and replace it if necessary.
Sources of carbon monoxide in your home include any gas appliance, like stoves, furnaces, and grills. Fuel-burning water heaters can also release carbon monoxide into the air. If you use non-electric space heaters to warm your home, there’s an increased carbon monoxide risk.
Many tools in your garage or shop also release carbon monoxide into the air. Pressure washers, chainsaws, generators, snow blowers, and lawnmowers can poison the air. Try to use them outdoors or in well-ventilated shops.
You should be aware that carbon monoxide also appears in outdoor air, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency. However, since you’re not in an enclosed space, there’s less worry about inhaling toxic amounts of the gas outside.
The best way to stay safe from carbon monoxide poisoning is to have alarms installed on each floor of your house. You should put them near the bedrooms, but double-check to ensure you know where to place your carbon monoxide detectors.
Regularly testing and cleaning your alarms guarantees they’ll react when they detect the gas in the air. When you hear the alert, you’ll be able to get to fresh air quickly. However, it’s best to prevent carbon monoxide completely instead of relying on your detector.
You should always follow preventative measures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These tips include information about not leaving your vehicle running in the garage, as carbon monoxide builds up quickly in the enclosed space.
The same is true of using a generator inside. You should keep this type of appliance, including pressure washers and gasoline-powered engines, at least 20 feet away from your home’s doors, windows, and vents. The gas can seep into your house from these openings.
If your house has gas-powered appliances, have them serviced annually to ensure there are no leaks. You should never use outdoor lanterns, grills, or camping stoves inside an enclosed area like your garage, RV, or tent. If you suspect a carbon monoxide leak, call 911 immediately.
You’ve learned about the 12 best carbon monoxide alarms, how to maintain them, and precautions to take so your family stays safe. If you need more information, check out the answers to these frequently asked questions.
Several appliances that burn fuel can set off a carbon monoxide alarm. Some examples include:
If you have a garage attached to your house and run your vehicle or generator inside, it might set off your carbon monoxide alarm.
Carbon monoxide is extremely poisonous. With every breath you take, carbon monoxide replaces the oxygen in your blood and starves your body of the necessary air.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the most common symptoms are dizziness, headaches, vomiting, and chest pain.
There are several different signs that will alert you to carbon monoxide in your house, even without a carbon monoxide alarm.
You might see yellow or orange flames on your gas appliances, though the flames should be blue. If your pilot light is frequently extinguished, it might be another sign of carbon monoxide in the air.
If your carbon monoxide detector beeps once, it’s an alert that the battery is low and you should replace it. When the alarm detects carbon monoxide in the air, it will beep four times in a row.
After you hear four beeps, you need to evacuate all the people and pets from your home, go outside for fresh air, and call 911 to report the alert.
Yes, a red flashing light on your carbon monoxide detector shows that it’s receiving power and working properly. If there’s no flashing light, you need to change the batteries and ensure the light starts back up. If not, you might need a new detector at that point.
The most efficient way to detect carbon monoxide in your home is to use a carbon monoxide alarm. Your air might smell stale if there’s a high quantity of carbon monoxide, so leave for fresh air if you think something is wrong inside the house.
You can also see signs of it yourself if you see yellow or orange flames instead of blue on gas appliances. Carbon monoxide in the air will also cause soot stains around the gas appliances, so keep your eyes peeled.
No, a carbon monoxide detector most often only detects that substance. There are some combination smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors you can install for additional safety. You’ll need a separate natural gas detector to find that type of leak in your home.
You can find basic versions of carbon monoxide alarms for less than $10. If you want to buy a multi-pack to put several around your home, buy one that you can hardwire into your power supply, or use one connected to smart home controls, you might pay up to $50.
You’ll know when you need to replace your carbon monoxide detector batteries because the light stops flashing, or you’ll hear a single chirp every so often. However, the US Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends you change the batteries every six months.
Several different types of carbon monoxide detectors on the market make it likely that you’ll find the exact features you need. There are battery-powered options or those you plug into an electrical socket. You can even hardwire a carbon monoxide alarm into your power supply.
You might want to choose a combination smoke and carbon monoxide detector for extra safety. Smart detectors can send data to your phone so you can easily check your home’s air quality.
You should buy a carbon monoxide detector that is UL Listed, which ensures it meets professional standards and will perform as expected. This certification shows your alarm’s results are accurate.
A low level of carbon monoxide is 50 ppm (parts per million) or less, while the mid-level is 51 ppm to 100 ppm. Once the air has over 100 ppm, you need to leave even if no one in the home feels sick.
Your carbon monoxide detector should send an alert when it detects 100 ppm in the air after 90 minutes of detection. If the ppm is higher than 100, the alarm will go off in a shorter period than 90 minutes because fresh air is crucial at that point.
The review and testing process involves testing the CO detectors in controlled environments that mimic real-life scenarios, such as different levels of CO concentration and exposure times. The in-house experts evaluate the detectors’ accuracy, reliability, sensitivity, and response time. They also consider other factors such as ease of use, installation, and maintenance.
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