Tpes of Carbon Monixide Detectors

There are three types of carbon monoxide detectors: biometric carbon monoxide detectors, semiconductor carbon monoxide detectors, and electrochemical carbon monoxide detectors. How long the buyer expects the detector to last and how much maintenance the buyer wants to do should determine which one is purchased.

The biometric carbon monoxide detectors are the longest lasting of the carbon monoxide detectors. Inside the detector, there is a gel disk that absorbs carbon monoxide and becomes dark. The sensor in the system then detects this, and causes the alarm to sound. If the detector is exposed to carbon monoxide, it must be exposed to fresh air so the carbon monoxide is able to escape the machine and the disk is able to "reset" itself. This detector does require battery replacement every two years (approximately), but it should last 10 years after installation.

The semiconductor carbon monoxide is not battery powered, but instead is plugged into a wall outlet. Inside the detector is a sensor bead which measures the amount of carbon monoxide in the air. This unit is also quite long-lasting, and generally is operational for five to ten years. This unit is especially good for people who are worried about remembering to replace batteries, as it can remain plugged in continuously.

The electrochemical carbon monoxide detector usually last for five years. This is because it is powered by a self-recharging battery, which does not need to be replaced. It works by detecting carbon monoxide detector through its electrochemical sensor. For an example of a carbon monoxide selection, see Lowes website.