First Alert Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector
The First Alert detector emits an 85db alarm if smoke or carbon monoxide is detected. It's supplied with a 9V battery, test and silencer button, plus an indicator to warn you if the battery is low - Next to a smoke alarm, a carbon monoxide detector may be the most important item you could have in your home. The two in one is a perfect safety detector. Without the aid of a detector, it would be virtually impossible to know if carbon monoxide at dangerous levels was present in your home. Unfortunately, carbon monoxide (CO) cannot be seen or smelled, and because it can have deadly effects within minutes, it is necessary to have a functioning detector in your home. There are three different types of carbon monoxide detectors, each with their own unique features. Before purchasing a detector, know the differences between each model and be clear about how many detectors you want to have in your home. Biometric CO Detector - The biometric CO detector has an internal gel cell that is made of synthetic hemoglobin that works to absorb the CO. It is crucial that the battery and sensory module be replaced every two to three years, but the detector itself should last approximately 10 years. If the detector is activated, the sensor should clear itself generally within 2 to 48 hours. To clear the sensor, you must let it sit in fresh air otherwise the sensor will immediately sound off again when put back in the detector. If you find that your sensor does not clear, you must replace the part. Semiconductor CO Detector - A semiconductor detector is a plug-in unit that is equipped with an electronic sensor. This model is a good choice for people who are looking for a device that requires minimal maintenance. Typically, this model lasts from 5 to 10 years. Electrochemical CO Detector -
An electrochemical detector works by responding differently to the varying levels of CO exposure. This device has a self-powered battery that does not need to be replaced and the detector usually lasts for at least 5 years.
Don’t Forget to also look for…
Which ever CO detector you buy, don’t forget to also look for these features:
The peak CO memory feature will typically appear on higher-end models and is a display that remembers the highest levels of CO over a certain time period. This feature is useful for emergency personnel when trying to determine the severity of the CO problem.
If someone in your family is hard of hearing, buy a carbon monoxide detector that has special light features. During an alarm, not only will the alarm go off but a light will also flash. Look for an alarm that has an easy-to-read light-emitting diode (LED).
Look for a model that has a power supply backup feature. Typically, your CO detector will stop working when there is a power outage however, with a power supply backup feature, this will not occur.
Make sure that you are buying the newest device available. To do this, open the package and find the date of manufacture that is stamped on the back.
Know the different sounds that your detector makes. A loud and continuous alarm sound should alert you to an emergency, while a repetitive beep every minute tells you that something is wrong with your detector.
You should have a minimum of one smoke detector and one CO detector in your home. There is no harm in having more than one detector of either kind, but you should have at least one of each. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Symptoms, Because carbon monoxide is odourless and colourless it is not always evident when it has become a problem is the home. Often people who have a mild to moderate problem will find they feel sick while they spend time at home. They might feel a little better outside in the fresh air but will have re-occurring symptoms shortly after returning home. If other members of the family have re-occurring bouts with flu-like symptoms while fuel-burning appliances are being used it may be time to have the house checked by a professional. Carbon Monoxide Detectors -
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