Detects levels of carbon monoxide below the alarm level of standard detectors. This can be useful for people with pre-existing conditions, such as infants and the elderly, that could be exacerbated by long-term exposure to low concentrations of carbon monoxide.
Do cheap carbon monoxide detectors work?
Most home CO monitors are designed to meet government standards and to warn occupants of high levels of CO poisoning. However, Low level carbon monoxide detector are not designed to alert occupants of lower levels of chronic CO exposure.
These detectors are often based on a pad of a colored chemical that changes color upon reaction with carbon monoxide, or on electrochemical cell technology. Some of these devices can also display a digital reading of the CO level in parts per million (ppm) on their face. Some models also have back-up battery power, allowing them to continue to function when the power is cut to the home.
Unfortunately, UL 2034 does not require these detectors to alarm at CO concentrations below 70ppm. This may seem strange but is necessary to protect the health and safety of occupants, prevent excessive false alarms that strain fire department resources and avoid over-stimulation of the human nervous system.
There are a number of ways to combat this problem, including adding additional CO monitors or adjusting the threshold of existing detectors to lower levels. The best solution is to install a device that can measure and display low levels of carbon monoxide, like NSI’s Model 36000 monitor. This device uses the same electrochemical sensor technology as professional carbon monoxide analyzers that cost thousands of dollars.