Carbon Monoxide Meter

Carbon monoxide meter (CO) is a silent killer. It restricts the flow of oxygen to the brain and major organs, causing symptoms such as headache and dizziness. It can be fatal if exposure continues for hours. The best way to protect yourself and your family is by having CO detectors around the house.

Most CO detectors sound an alarm when the concentration of carbon monoxide in a room or space reaches dangerous levels. Depending on the model, this might happen within 40 to 165 minutes at 100 parts per million (PPM) or in just 4 to 15 minutes at 400 ppm. Some models also display the CO level.

Top Carbon Monoxide Meters: Features and Comparisons

The sensors in carbon monoxide detectors use electrochemical or metal oxide methods to measure CO in the air. Thin wires of semiconductor tin dioxide are placed on an insulating ceramic base and monitored by an integrated circuit. As carbon monoxide enters the gas-permeable compartment of the sensor, it reduces the resistance to the current between the electrodes and triggers a small voltage between them.

There are many different models of carbon monoxide detectors available today. They range from basic battery and plug-in types to fancier versions that talk, connect to a home wireless network or work in conjunction with a smoke detector. All of them are designed to meet the safety standards set and enforced by Underwriters Laboratories.