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Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Symptoms
Effects of Carbon Monoxide
Poisoning
Carbon Monoxide
Levels
Preventative Measures
Carbon Monoxide Detectors
FAQ's |
The Silent Killer: Selecting an Effective
Carbon Monoxide Detector that can Save Lives
Next to a smoke alarm, a carbon monoxide detector may be the most important
item you could have in your home. 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.
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