10 Best Carbon Monoxide Detectors 2025 in the United States

The First Alert Plug-In Carbon Monoxide Detector 3-pack is a good choice for keeping multiple rooms in your home protected from carbon monoxide. It uses an electrochemical sensor, which is a reliable and accurate method to detect CO levels. Since it plugs directly into any standard outlet, you don’t need to worry about replacing batteries, making it easy to maintain. The alarm is loud at 85 decibels, which should get your attention quickly in case of danger. It’s recommended to install one on every level of your home and inside each bedroom to maximize safety.

The detectors are well sized and simple to use, but because they rely on plugging into outlets, they may not be ideal for rooms without convenient power sources. Also, there’s no digital display to show current CO levels—alerts come only through sound—so you won’t get detailed information beyond an alarm sounding. The unit is tested to meet safety standards and comes with a 7-year limited warranty, adding peace of mind. If you want a straightforward, reliable detector that covers multiple rooms without fuss, this set is worth considering, especially if your home already has accessible outlets where you can plug them in.

The X-Sense Wireless Interconnected Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector (SC06-W) is a comprehensive safety solution that offers dual protection against smoke and carbon monoxide. It uses two types of sensors – photoelectric for smoke and electrochemical for CO – ensuring reliable detection of both hazards. A notable feature is its wireless interconnection capability, which means that when one alarm goes off, all interconnected alarms in the home will also sound, providing full home coverage.

You can link up to 24 units for extensive protection, which is impressive for larger homes or multi-story buildings. The detector is powered by a 10-year sealed lithium battery, reducing the need for frequent battery changes and offering long-term peace of mind. However, it doesn't have Wi-Fi, so it lacks features like remote alerts that some other modern detectors offer. The inclusion of a test/silence button allows for easy maintenance and management of false alarms.

Installation is straightforward, and the necessary screws and plugs are included. This makes it a solid choice for anyone looking for effective, long-lasting protection without the need for complex setups or continuous maintenance.

The FIRST ALERT BRK SC9120FF combines smoke and carbon monoxide detection, making it a versatile choice for home safety. Its hardwired design, paired with a battery backup, ensures continuous operation even during power outages. This model features dual sensors: electrochemical for detecting carbon monoxide, and ionization for smoke, providing reliable detection.

One of its standout features is the ability to connect with other compatible detectors, which is particularly useful for larger homes or multiple-unit installations. The 85-decibel audible alarm is loud enough to serve as an effective alert in emergencies. Installation is straightforward, thanks to its universal mounting brackets, and the design includes tamper-resistant features to keep it securely in place.

Its user-friendly aspect is emphasized by a single button for testing and silencing alarms. However, being hardwired, it requires installation in a location where electrical connections are accessible, possibly limiting placement flexibility compared to entirely battery-operated models. Additionally, while the product is highly rated and trusted, the reliance on a side-load battery compartment might be less convenient for some users compared to front-load options. Despite these considerations, the integration of smoke and carbon monoxide detection, combined with a solid reputation and trusted performance, makes it an appealing choice for comprehensive home protection.