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10 Best Carbon Monoxide Detector 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector, Plug In Wall with AA Battery Backup, Test-Hush Button

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,441
Power Source
Display and Alerts
Test and Silence Features

Most important from
34327 reviews

Power Source
Easy to install—just plug it in, with a backup AA battery to ensure it works during power outages.
Display and Alerts
The green monitoring light is easy to see, enhancing the sense of safety.
Test and Silence Features
The test-hush button is super convenient for checking the unit or silencing false alarms.

The Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector is a reliable choice for home safety, featuring an electrochemical sensor that effectively detects carbon monoxide. Installation is straightforward as it simply plugs into a standard 120V outlet, and it includes a 2-AA battery backup to ensure continuous protection even during power outages. The detector emits an 85-decibel alarm when carbon monoxide is detected, which is loud enough to be heard throughout most homes.

Additionally, the detector records the peak level of carbon monoxide detected, which can be helpful for safety reviews or in case of an emergency. The Test-Hush Button adds convenience by allowing you to easily test the unit or silence false alarms, an important feature for maintaining the detector without hassle. An end-of-life chirp alerts you when the unit needs replacement, ensuring it always functions optimally.

In terms of durability, it comes with a 10-year limited manufacturer warranty, although this does not cover battery performance. While it does not offer interconnectivity with other alarms, which could be a limitation for some users, it remains a highly rated and popular model, evident by its strong customer reviews. The compact design and lightweight build make it unobtrusive in any room. This detector is ideal for anyone seeking a simple, effective solution for carbon monoxide detection without the need for extensive setup or maintenance.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,441
Power Source
Display and Alerts
Test and Silence Features

Most important from
34327 reviews

Power Source
Easy to install—just plug it in, with a backup AA battery to ensure it works during power outages.
Display and Alerts
The green monitoring light is easy to see, enhancing the sense of safety.
Test and Silence Features
The test-hush button is super convenient for checking the unit or silencing false alarms.
#2

X-Sense 10-Year Battery Combination Smoke Carbon Monoxide Alarm Detector with Large LCD Display, Standalone Model, 5-Pack

Rating
9.6
Power Source
Display and Alerts
Interconnectivity

Most important from
4958 reviews

Power Source
The 10-year built-in battery provides peace of mind and eliminates the need for frequent battery changes.
Display and Alerts
Having a visual display in addition to standard LED lights is a convenient feature for monitoring.
Interconnectivity
Interconnectivity feature ensures all detectors go off simultaneously, enhancing safety across the home.

The X-Sense 10-Year Battery Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm is a solid choice for those needing reliable detection in their homes. One of its main strengths is the dual functionality; it combines both smoke and carbon monoxide detection using advanced sensors, which enhances safety. The large LCD display is user-friendly, showing real-time CO levels and battery status, making it convenient for users to monitor the device's performance.

The 10-year battery life is a significant advantage, as it eliminates the hassle of frequent battery changes, ensuring continuous operation without interruption. This feature is particularly appealing for people who may forget to replace batteries regularly. Additionally, installation is straightforward, requiring no electrical work, which is great for DIY enthusiasts or those who want a quick setup.

However, there are some limitations to consider. This model is a standalone unit, which means it lacks interconnectivity features; it cannot link with other alarms or connect to a smart home system. If you're looking for a more integrated solution, you might want to explore the SC07-W model for interconnectivity or the SC07-WX for Wi-Fi capability. Also, while it has a good warranty, some users might expect longer coverage beyond the 5-year quality warranty and 60-day money-back guarantee. In terms of build quality, the heat-resistant plastic material is a plus, yet it’s essential to ensure that the placement avoids extreme temperatures.

Rating
9.6
Power Source
Display and Alerts
Interconnectivity

Most important from
4958 reviews

Power Source
The 10-year built-in battery provides peace of mind and eliminates the need for frequent battery changes.
Display and Alerts
Having a visual display in addition to standard LED lights is a convenient feature for monitoring.
Interconnectivity
Interconnectivity feature ensures all detectors go off simultaneously, enhancing safety across the home.
#3

First Alert SMICO100-AC Interconnect Hardwire Combination Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm with Battery Backup, 1-Pack

Rating
9.3
Interconnectivity

Most important from
26983 reviews

Interconnectivity
Confirmed as a direct replacement for the outdated SC9120B model.

The First Alert SMICO100-AC Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm is designed to provide reliable protection for your home. With its ionization sensor, it detects smoke and carbon monoxide effectively, offering dual protection. The hardwired unit comes with a battery backup, ensuring continuous operation during power outages, which is a significant advantage for safety.

Its interconnectivity feature ensures that if one alarm goes off, all alarms in the network will sound, providing comprehensive coverage throughout your home. The Quick Connect Plug feature makes installation straightforward without the need for extensive rewiring, which is convenient for most users. Additionally, the test/silence button allows for easy maintenance and ensures the alarm is functioning correctly.

It is worth noting that being a hardwired unit, it requires a bit more effort during initial setup compared to battery-only models. The ionization sensor is also more prone to nuisance alarms from cooking, although the advanced sensing technology aims to minimize this. If you’re looking for a robust, interconnected smoke and CO alarm with battery backup, this could be a solid choice.

Rating
9.3
Interconnectivity

Most important from
26983 reviews

Interconnectivity
Confirmed as a direct replacement for the outdated SC9120B model.

Buying Guide for the Best Carbon Monoxide Detector

Choosing the right carbon monoxide detector is crucial for ensuring the safety of your home and loved ones. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly if not detected early. A good CO detector will alert you to the presence of this dangerous gas, giving you time to take action. When selecting a carbon monoxide detector, consider the following key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs.
Sensor TypeThe sensor type in a carbon monoxide detector determines how it detects CO gas. There are three main types: electrochemical, metal oxide semiconductor, and biomimetic. Electrochemical sensors are the most common and reliable, providing accurate readings and a longer lifespan. Metal oxide semiconductor sensors are less expensive but may not be as accurate. Biomimetic sensors use a gel that changes color when exposed to CO, which can be less precise. For most users, an electrochemical sensor is the best choice due to its reliability and accuracy.
Power SourceCarbon monoxide detectors can be powered by batteries, hardwired into your home's electrical system, or plugged into an outlet. Battery-powered detectors are easy to install and can be placed anywhere, but you need to remember to replace the batteries regularly. Hardwired detectors are more permanent and often come with a battery backup in case of power outages. Plug-in detectors are convenient but need to be placed near an outlet. Choose a power source that fits your home's setup and your preference for maintenance.
Display and AlertsA good carbon monoxide detector should have a clear display and loud alerts. The display can show CO levels in parts per million (ppm), which helps you understand the severity of the situation. Some detectors also have digital displays that show the peak level of CO detected. Alerts should be loud enough to wake you up if CO levels rise while you are sleeping. Look for detectors with both visual and audible alarms to ensure you are alerted in any situation.
Test and Silence FeaturesTest and silence features are important for maintaining your carbon monoxide detector. The test button allows you to check if the detector is working properly, while the silence button lets you temporarily mute the alarm if it goes off accidentally. Regularly testing your detector ensures it is functioning correctly, and the silence feature can prevent unnecessary noise while you address the cause of the alarm. Make sure the detector you choose has easy-to-use test and silence buttons.
InterconnectivityInterconnectivity allows multiple carbon monoxide detectors to communicate with each other. If one detector senses CO, all interconnected detectors will sound the alarm, providing a more comprehensive warning system. This feature is especially useful in larger homes or multi-story buildings. If you have a larger home or want to ensure maximum safety, look for detectors that can be interconnected either wirelessly or through hardwiring.
Lifespan and WarrantyThe lifespan of a carbon monoxide detector is the period during which it can reliably detect CO. Most detectors have a lifespan of 5 to 10 years. After this period, the sensors may become less accurate, and the detector should be replaced. Check the manufacturer's recommendations for the lifespan and look for detectors with a warranty that covers at least the expected lifespan. This ensures you are protected against defects and can rely on the detector for the specified period.

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