Carbon monoxide (CO) is a silent killer. Known as the “silent killer”, it’s an odourless, colourless gas that can be deadly. Carbon Monoxide claims over 400 lives each year in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It also sends around 50,000 people to the emergency room annually.
The danger of CO poisoning is that you can’t see it or smell it. That’s exactly why carbon monoxide detectors are so vital – they offer crucial warnings against an undetectable threat. But not just any detector—you need a smart carbon monoxide detector.
Smart CO detectors connect to your smartphone via WiFi or Bluetooth. This gives you extra features and connectivity not available with standard detectors. So why should you buy one of these high-tech detectors? Here are 6 compelling reasons:
1. Get Notified of Danger on Your Phone
One of the main advantages of smart CO detectors is remote notifications. If a standard detector goes off when you’re away from home, you’d have no idea. But smart detectors send alerts directly to your smartphone if they detect carbon monoxide.
This allows you to take action, even if you’re miles away. You can call emergency services or neighbours to investigate. And you can warn other household members who may be in danger. Getting notifications on your phone provides an extra layer of protection that can save lives.
2. Monitor Levels from Anywhere
Unlike standard detectors, smart CO monitors let you view current CO levels from anywhere. As long as you have an internet connection, you can check readings through an app on your phone or tablet.
This makes it easy to keep tabs on your home’s air quality when you’re out running errands, at the office, or on vacation. If levels start to rise, you’ll get an alert right away—wherever you are. Being able to monitor CO remotely gives you peace of mind that your family is safe.
3. Link with Other Smart Devices
Today’s smart CO monitors don’t just detect gas levels. They also connect with other devices in your smart home. For example, you can set up automatic shut-off so your smart thermostat turns off your furnace if CO gets too high.
You can also integrate your smart CO alarm with smart lights. This allows the lights to flash as a visual warning if the alarm goes off when you’re home. Linking with other appliances and systems creates a full smart safety net.
4. Analyze Trends Over Time
Standard carbon monoxide detectors only tell you levels at the moment. But smart CO monitors keep historical data, allowing you to see trends over time.
The app allows you to view graphs and charts that track CO levels throughout the day, month, or year. You can detect patterns, like recurring spikes at certain times. Having this data helps you better understand CO risks in your home.
5. Get Readings from Multiple Rooms
A single CO detector only monitors the room it’s in. To get full coverage, you need multiple devices. The good news is that most smart carbon monoxide alarm systems come with several detectors.
You can spread these around your house in different bedrooms, the kitchen, the basement, etc. The detectors communicate with each other, creating a mesh network. This gives readings from all over your home for comprehensive monitoring.
6. Enjoy Next-Gen Safety Features
Smart technology allows for new, innovative safety capabilities. For example, some smart CO detectors feature digital displays. This lets you view current CO readings right on the device—no app is needed.
Other advanced features include voice alarms and colour-changing lights to indicate CO levels and extreme temperature tolerance. Smart CO monitors also have improved sensitivity compared to standard models. Overall, smart detectors represent the next generation in carbon monoxide safety.
Key Benefits of Smart Carbon Monoxide Alarms
To summarize, smart CO detectors offer some major benefits compared to traditional detectors:
- Phone notifications when you’re away from home
- Ability to view levels from anywhere
- Integration with other smart home devices
- Historical data tracking and analysis
- Multiple detectors to monitor different rooms
- Cutting-edge safety features
When it comes to protecting your family from carbon monoxide poisoning, smart detectors give you an advantage. Their connectivity and intelligence provide early warning and remote monitoring standard models.
What to Look for in a Smart Carbon Monoxide Detector
If you’re ready to upgrade your CO alarm system, what should you look for when choosing a smart detector? When selecting a smart carbon monoxide detector, key features to consider include:
- Accurate Gas Sensing
The core function of any CO monitor is accurately detecting carbon monoxide. Smart detectors should use high-performance sensors that can identify CO at low levels. Look for units certified to meet the latest safety standards. Sensitivity down to 10 ppm or lower is ideal.
- Smart Alerts
Make sure the detector offers smart alert options like phone push notifications and flashing lights. This allows it to get your attention even if you’re not within earshot of the traditional alarm.
- Connectivity
Smart detectors need constant connectivity to work. WiFi-enabled models connect to your home network. Battery-powered versions use Bluetooth to link with your smartphone directly. Just make sure connectivity is reliable.
- Remote Access and Controls
You’ll want to be able to check the current status and CO levels from your phone anytime. And the ability to perform functions like silencing alarms remotely is convenient.
- Data Storage and Analytics
The detector should store CO data for days, weeks, or longer. This allows you to monitor patterns through charts and graphs.
- Multiple Detectors
Look for systems with at least two detectors for expanded coverage. Adding more detectors should be easy and seamless.
- Smart Home Integration
If you have other smart home gear, make sure the CO monitor integrates. This allows automated control of devices like your thermostat if CO gets too high.
Top 6 Smart Carbon Monoxide Detectors
With advanced monitoring and warning capabilities, smart carbon monoxide detectors provide an extra layer of protection compared to standard models. Here are 6 top options to consider installing in your home:
1. Nest Protect
The Nest Protect neatly combines smoke and carbon monoxide alarm abilities. It connects via WiFi and sends alerts to your phone. Nest Protect also lights up yellow when CO levels rise and flashes red in an emergency. Multiple units connect to monitor your whole home.
2. First Alert Onelink Safe & Sound
This versatile alarm from First Alert detects smoke, and CO and connects with Alexa. It provides app alerts, historical data, voice evacuation messages, and temperature monitoring. The First Alert also acts as a night light and speaker for playing music.
3. Roost Smart Battery CO Monitor
With nine years of battery life, the Roost simply attaches to any standard detector. It adds wireless connectivity for app alerts, battery replacement reminders, and testing confirmation. This affordable upgrade brings basic smarts to traditional CO monitors.
4. Kidde RemoteLync Monitor
Kidde’s monitor links existing Kidde CO detectors for whole-home monitoring. It provides mobile alerts, battery replacement alerts, and weekly wireless system tests. With a simple plug-in design, the Kidde RemoteLync brings smart notifications to standard detectors.
5. Onelink by First Alert Plug-In Detector
This plug-in detector from First Alert monitors CO levels and temperature. It connects directly to your WiFi router with no hub required. Customizable location names allow you to track different rooms. The First Alert app gives you remote access from anywhere.
6. Sense by Protect Plus
With a sleek, contemporary design, the Sense monitors CO, humidity, temperature and air pressure. It provides mobile app control, history graphs, and Alexa integration. The Sense uses acoustic, visual and app alerts to notify you of danger. Overall, it’s a fully-featured smart detector.
How to Install Your Smart Carbon Monoxide Detector
Once you select an advanced smart carbon monoxide detector (or detectors), how should you install them? To properly install your smart carbon monoxide detector, follow these best practices:
- Carefully Read the Instructions
Every smart CO monitor comes with an installation and operation manual. Read this closely and follow the directions exactly. Pay attention to placement recommendations and distance guidelines.
- Choose a Central Location
You want the detector in a spot where CO is most likely to accumulate. This is usually near the furnace, water heater, fireplace, and other fuel-burning appliances.
- Place Near Sleeping Areas
Position a smart CO alarm outside each bedroom as well. This ensures you’ll be alerted even while asleep when CO danger is highest.
- Avoid Obstructions
Don’t block the detector with furniture, curtains, or anything else. This can prevent it from accurately sampling the air. Leave at least one-foot clearance in all directions.
- Install at the Correct Height
Mount the detector on the wall or ceiling per the manufacturer’s suggestions, usually 4 to 6 feet above the floor. This positions it where CO will reach the sensor.
- Avoid Contaminants
Place the monitor at least 10 feet away from cooking appliances to prevent false alarms. Also keep it away from steam, dust, grease, and other contaminants.
- Connect and Test
After installing, connect the detectors and make sure you can control them through the app. Also, test the alarm functionality per the user guide.
Proper placement and installation ensure your smart carbon monoxide monitors will work correctly and provide maximum protection. Carefully follow the directions for a seamless setup.
Help Protect Your Family with a Smart Carbon Monoxide Detector
As you can see, smart carbon monoxide detectors offer significant advantages you won’t get with outdated standard models. Advanced monitoring and alert features allow you to oversee your home’s air quality from anywhere. This extra layer of technological protection could save the lives of you and your loved ones.
So check the age of your current CO detectors. If they’re over 7-10 years old, it’s time to upgrade. And consider replacing at least one with an innovative smart monitor. Doing so will help ensure your family stays safe from the silent, invisible threat of carbon monoxide.
