As carbon monoxide does not have a smell or color, and it cannot be tasted either, its detection requires a special detector. The smoke alarm will not perform this function (although certain dual-function smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are on the market). The gas may cause severe damage and death to the human body. A detector can alert the user before the level of carbon monoxide reaches a dangerous point. Find out how to choose the best co2 monitor in this site.

It is possible to create carbon monoxide by incompletely burning any fuel, including wood or coal. These molecules, which are more than 240 times as attractive to oxygen-carrying cells and red blood cell hemoglobin (which is found in the lungs), enter the body via the lungs. It causes an oxygen shortage in all parts of the body and the brain. Carbon monoxide poisoning can result in a variety of symptoms, from mild headaches to fatalities. The effects of carbon monoxide may persist even after a person has been evacuated. A carbon monoxide-related poisoning occurs in approximately 25,000 UK citizens each year. Many of those affected suffer from symptoms severe enough to warrant hospitalization for several days.

Carbon monoxide can be dangerous. That is why it is important to use a method that is reliable. In carbon monoxide alarms there are several technologies that each have certain benefits and downsides.

Electrochemical

A fuel cell is used to run the current through this detector, which is the type most commonly found in Europe. This detector uses two electrodes with an acid electrolyte. Carbon monoxide on one electrode is oxidized while oxygen consumption occurs on the opposite electrode. This allows for the sensor to register even extremely low levels of CO, far below any dangerous concentrations. But when the concentration of carbon dioxide reaches an alarming level, the circuit is closed and the alarm sounds. These sensors are very accurate. They also come in models with digital displays and memory functions, so that the user can track changes over time. This type of detector can be more costly than other types.

Biometric

This detector works by using a liquid which mimics blood. Not as horrible as you might think: the solution is made up of metal salts with sugar and a dye that turns color in carbon monoxide concentrations. Infrared is used to target the liquid and photodiodes are placed at its opposite end. As soon as the liquid darkens in response to carbon dioxide, the infrared bead breaks. Although it is a good technology, the alarm only sounds when a specific level of carbon monoxide has been reached.

Semiconductor

As one of the original methods of carbon monoxide monitoring, this semiconductor-style uses wires coated with tin dioxide, while being monitored by a circuit integrated. If the level of carbon monoxide is high, an integrated circuit will complete the circuit and sound the alarm. A battery cannot provide enough electricity for this detector, which is why it needs to be attached to the wiring in your house. Most models include a backup power source in the event that there is a blackout. Models are designed to last 10 years or more.

Some detectors are also equipped with separate alert devices, which can be linked via wireless technology to the unit. There are vibrating pad that you can place on your pillow during an emergency. Other options include handsets with different sound and lighting alarms.