When it comes to replacing your carbon monoxide detector, there are a couple of things to think about. CO detectors do not have as long a life as regular smoke detectors.They have a normal life span of about 5 to 7 years. The labeling that provides a build date or expiration date are fairly new, so if yours doesn't have one, it is probably time to get a new one.
Two things to look for in a replacement for your carbon monoxide detector:
- Choose a detector with a "fuel cell electrochemical" sensor
- Choose a model that has a digital readout with a "peak level" memory retention feature
Carbon monoxide is about the same weight as air and doesn't rise or sink to the floor. Detectors that do not have a digital readout can be mounted anywhere as long as they are at least 15" below the ceilings.
The fuel cell electrochemical sensors are much more sensitive to CO than the models made just 10 years ago. There are cheaper models available such as metal oxide and gel cell, but humidity and temperature changes can reduce their accuracy.
Also, you may want to think about purchasing a talking model if you have small children, because the voice warning is much more effective at waking children than a horn sound.
