They All Use the Same Sensor to Detect Carbon Monoxide

A popular question that seems to pop up a lot in my inbox is what type of carbon monoxide alarm should I get? It's an excellent one and definitely one worth exploring. The first thing to take into account is that every single First Alert Carbon Monoxide Alarm uses an electrochemical sensor to identify the presence of carbon monoxide. This will separate them from a smoke alarm that may implement an ionization or photoelectric sensor to differentiate between smoke patterns. The use of a single sensor that's regarded as the most accurate carbon monoxide sensor available removes a key decision that a lot of folks will face when selecting a smoke detector. Now that we know that every First Alert Carbon Monoxide Alarm uses the same sensor, we can look at the key differences between the three types of installation.

Hardwired Carbon Monoxide Alarms Can Be Linked with Other Detectors

One of the main obstacles that hardwired alarms seem to face is the setup process. It's something First Alert sought to correct with the introduction of a Quick-Plug-In Power Connector with every hardwired alarm. It's a welcomed addition that removes a lot of the old school hassles of setting up a carbon monoxide alarm. A defining attribute for hardwired alarms is their ability to interconnect with other detectors throughout your home. When one alarm is triggered, all interconnected detectors will immediately sound off. This is an immense perk as it'll allow you to link hardwired smoke and carbon monoxide alarms for increased protection.

The addition of a battery backup for every hardwired carbon monoxide alarm is another excellent feature as it will allow your detector to perform in the event of a power outage. It's not just a battery backup either; it's the ten year lifespan that comes with it. Ten years of uninterrupted carbon monoxide detection is invaluable. Factor in that many First Alert Hardwired Carbon Monoxide Alarms are also capable of detecting smoke (combination alarms) and you have the complete package.

Battery Powered Carbon Monoxide Alarms Open a Wealth of Installation Options

You'll often hear that the best ability is availability. First Alert Battery Operated Carbon Monoxide Alarms aren't held back by the same installation standards of a hardwired or plug-in detector. This opens a lot of options to explore when it comes to setting up your detectors. Running with the motif of availability, select carbon monoxide alarms don't even have to be installed. Something like this 10 year carbon monoxide alarm can just as well be placed on a tabletop and have the same result. This means you'll have access to a movable form of carbon monoxide detection that's completely independent of a typical energy source. A selection of battery operated carbon monoxide alarms are also able to detect the presence of smoke (combination detectors), offering even more protection in one highly accessible device.

Plug-In Carbon Monoxide Alarms Can Be Placed Nearly Anywhere

There's something to say about a carbon monoxide alarm that can simply be inserted into a power outlet and be ready to go. Aside from a few battery operated alarms, they still need to be placed onto a wall for the best result. Hardwired alarms still need access to your home's electrical wiring. What's something that can be found in every (or nearly every) room in your home? A wall outlet… It's all you'll really need with a plug-in carbon monoxide detector. It' probably why First Alert Plug-In Carbon Monoxide Alarms are some of the more popular models available. Select plug-in co detectors are also capable of detecting natural gas, making them 2-in-1 units. Most First Alert Plug-In Carbon Monoxide Detectors come with a backup battery, ensuring detection in the event of a power outage. An increased number of installation options and ease of use make these an easy recommendation.

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