Best Carbon Monoxide Detectors of 2025

Howard Chester Avatar
Howard Chester
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Carbon monoxide detectors are essential safety devices that can save lives by detecting the presence of this dangerous gas. They are designed to alert homeowners when carbon monoxide levels in the air reach dangerous levels. These detectors are typically battery-powered and can be easily installed in any room of the house. They are highly sensitive and can detect even low levels of carbon monoxide, which is a colorless, odorless gas that can be produced by gas appliances, fireplaces, and other sources. It is important to have a carbon monoxide detector in every home to ensure the safety of everyone inside.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Amazon Smart Air Quality Monitor Cover #TOP 1
Amazon Smart Air Quality Monitor
ftb score rating icon 9.8
FIRST ALERT CO605 Plug-In Carbon Monoxide Detector with Battery Backup Cover #TOP 2
FIRST ALERT CO605 Plug-In Carbon Monoxide Detector with Battery Backup
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Kidde Battery Powered Carbon Monoxide Detector with LED Lights Cover #TOP 3
Kidde Battery Powered Carbon Monoxide Detector with LED Lights
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Amazon Smart Air Quality Monitor

Amazon
P3A7EN
White
Amazon Smart Air Quality Monitor Cover
Amazon Smart Air Quality Monitor – Know your air, Works with Alexa

The Amazon Smart Air Quality Monitor is a certified device that enables you to track and measure the air quality inside your house through 5 key factors: particulate matter, volatile organic compounds, carbon monoxide, humidity, and temperature. You can easily understand the air quality score in the Alexa app or from the color-coded LED. The device also sends notifications if poor air quality is detected, and enables you to automate your Alexa-enabled devices such as air purifiers, dehumidifiers, and fans. Certified for Humans, this smart home device is easy to set up with Alexa.

What We Like
Fast delivery
Easy installation
Effective air quality monitoring
Integration with Alexa
Real-time air quality updates
What We Don't Like
Not a laboratory-grade instrument
Some unrealistic expectations

FIRST ALERT CO605 Plug-In Carbon Monoxide Detector with Battery Backup

CO605
White
1-Pack
FIRST ALERT CO605 Plug-In Carbon Monoxide Detector with Battery Backup Cover
First Alert CO605 Plug-In Carbon Monoxide Detector with Battery Backup , White

Keep your family safe with the FIRST ALERT CO605 Detector. This plug-in carbon monoxide alarm works with any standard outlet and has a battery backup for continuous monitoring of CO levels, even during a power failure. Its advanced electrochemical carbon monoxide sensor accurately detects CO levels no matter where the detector is placed in the room. With a single test/silence button and an 85-decibel alarm, the FIRST ALERT CO605 Detector is simple to use. To ensure complete protection, place one on each level of your home and in each bedroom. The detector comes with a 7-year limited warranty and an end-of-life signal chirp to notify you when it's time to replace the unit for safety. Its low battery signal mute feature quiets the low battery signal for up to 8 hours.

What We Like
Easy installation
Battery backup option
Loud alarm
Good build quality
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Red light for status
Occasional malfunction
#TOP 3

Kidde Battery Powered Carbon Monoxide Detector with LED Lights

KN-COB-LP2
White
1 Pack
Kidde Battery Powered Carbon Monoxide Detector with LED Lights Cover
Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector, Battery Powered CO Alarm with LEDs, Test-Reset Button, Low Battery Indicator, Portable

The Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector is equipped with LED lights that pulse for power, CO detection, and low battery alerts modes. The 85-decibel alarm alerts of fire and protects during a power failure, operates on 2-AA batteries, included with the pack. For whole home family protection, place one carbon monoxide detector on each level of your home and in your bedroom to protect from poisonous gases. It is UL certified and comes with a 10-year limited warranty.

What We Like
Reliable home safety addition
Easy installation and use
Clear LED indicators
Loud alarm response
Long battery life
What We Don't Like
No digital CO level display
Quality control issues noted
#TOP 4

Kidde CO Detector with Battery Backup

KN-COB-DP2
White
Kidde CO Detector with Battery Backup Cover
Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector, Plug In Wall with AA Battery Backup, Test-Hush Button

The Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector is an easy-to-install device that provides continuous monitoring of dangerous carbon monoxide levels in your home. The plug-in device features an 85dB warning signal that alerts you of any hazardous CO gas. The detector has a battery backup, using two AA batteries, that continues to work even during power failures. To ensure whole-home detection, you can purchase multiple alarms and place them on each level of your home and outside each sleeping area. This CO detector is UL certified and comes with a 10-year limited warranty.

What We Like
Easy installation
Battery backup feature
Compact design
Clear instructions
No obstruction to outlets
What We Don't Like
Uncertain effectiveness
Hope to never test it
#TOP 5

First Alert CO400 Carbon Monoxide Detector

CO400
White
Pack of 1
First Alert CO400 Carbon Monoxide Detector Cover
First Alert CO400 Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detector, Battery Operated Alarm, 1-Pack

Protect your family from the dangers of carbon monoxide with this battery-operated alarm. The electrochemical sensor accurately detects CO levels, and the alarm sounds loudly at 85 decibels to alert you to danger. The 5-year limited warranty and end-of-life signal chirp ensure that you have complete protection. Place one on each level of your home and in each bedroom for complete peace of mind.

What We Like
Reliable carbon monoxide detection
Easy installation process
Battery-operated convenience
Affordable price point
Compact design for any room
What We Don't Like
Battery compartment may be difficult to open
#TOP 6

Kidde Nighthawk CO Detector with Battery Backup

KN-COPP-3
White
1 Pack
Kidde Nighthawk CO Detector with Battery Backup Cover
Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector, Plug In Wall with 9-Volt Battery Backup, Digital LED Display

The Kidde Nighthawk Carbon Monoxide Detector is an AC-plug-in device with battery backup and digital display. It offers protection during power failure, easy installation, peace of mind with its testing feature and electrochemical sensing technology. The CO alarm detects the presence of carbon monoxide gas, emits an 85 decibel alarm sound and has a memory storage option. It is UL certified and comes with a 10-year limited warranty.

What We Like
Easy installation
Accurate readings
Good backup battery
Peace of mind
What We Don't Like
Intermittent beeping issues
Shipping damage reported
#TOP 7

Kidde Battery Operated CO Alarm with Digital Display

KN-COPP-B-LPM
Detector
KN-COPP-B-LPM
Kidde Battery Operated CO Alarm with Digital Display Cover
Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector, AA Battery Powered CO Alarm with LEDs, Test-Reset Button, Low Battery Indicator, Portable

The Kidde Battery Operated CO Alarm is equipped with Electrochemical sensing technology which ensures that you are alerted of the presence of carbon monoxide gas. The device features CO detector with alert modes, 2 LED lights, and 85 decibel alarm. In case of a power failure, the detector operates on 3-AA batteries. Additionally, the easy to read digital display allows you to easily monitor carbon monoxide levels. With UL certification and a 10-year limited warranty, this CO detector ensures your safety.

What We Like
Easy to install
Accurate CO detection
Long battery life
Audible alarm functionality
Digital display feature
What We Don't Like
Confusing battery placement
#TOP 8

Vzmcov Carbon Monoxide and Gas Detector

KH156
Red-CO+GAS
1Pack
Vzmcov Carbon Monoxide and Gas Detector Cover
Carbon Monoxide and Natural Gas Detector,Vzmcov Plug in Co and Gas Detector,Propane, Natural, Methane,and Explosive Gas Alarm,HD Screen & Indicator Gas Detector for Kitchen, Home

The Vzmcov Gas Alarm is a versatile safety device that monitors carbon monoxide and combustible gas levels in real-time. Its plug-and-play design allows you to easily set it up in any standard outlet, ensuring your home is protected without hassle. With a high-precision sensor, it quickly detects changes in air quality, enhancing your household safety. Additionally, the alarm features both sound and light alerts when gas concentrations reach dangerous levels, and its high-definition screen ensures you can see the readings even in low light. This device is perfect for maintaining a safe environment for you and your family.

What We Like
Easy installation
Clear display
Loud alert
Plug-in convenience
Good value for money
What We Don't Like
Alarm volume could be louder
#TOP 9

USBNOVEL Carbon Monoxide Detectors (2 Pack)

WJ-CO605
USBNOVEL Carbon Monoxide Detectors (2 Pack) Cover
2 Pack Carbon Monoxide Detectors,CO Detectors Battery Powered,Carbon Monoxide CO Alarms with Light&Digital Display for Home,Bedroom,Kitchen,Office

The USBNOVEL CO Detectors provide essential safety for your home and loved ones. With high sensitivity, these detectors quickly identify the presence of dangerous carbon monoxide, allowing you to react promptly. Installation is a breeze; just insert 2 AA batteries and you’re set, even during power outages. The multiple alarm standards ensure you are alerted at varying levels of CO concentration, giving you the chance to take action before it’s too late. Plus, the user-friendly design features a simple test/reset button, making it easy to maintain and ensure your detector is always ready to protect you.

What We Like
More features than competitors
Effective with loud alarm
Good value for price
Bright flashing light
What We Don't Like
Slightly cheap plastic feel
Flashing light can be disruptive
#TOP 10

First Alert CO710 Carbon Monoxide Detector

CO710
Pack of 1
First Alert CO710 Carbon Monoxide Detector Cover
First Alert CO710 Carbon Monoxide Detector with 10-Year Battery and Digital Temperature Display , White

The First Alert CO710 Carbon Monoxide Detector is a reliable and user-friendly device that guarantees continuous monitoring of carbon monoxide levels in your home. Its backlit digital display shows both temperature and CO concentration, while the peak level feature displays the highest concentration of carbon monoxide measured. Equipped with a built-in 10-year lithium battery, this detector ensures continuous protection for the life of the unit. Once CO levels reach dangerous levels, the loud 85-decibel alarm will sound to alert you, ensuring your family's safety.

What We Like
Digital display
Built-in long-life battery
Portable and versatile
Temperature display
Compact size
What We Don't Like
Screws misalignment issue
No CO level display
Buying Guide Image

Carbon Monoxide Detectors Buying Guide: What You Need to Know

With this type of product, even if you are sleeping you can rest assured that your life is a little safer. It is the same in case of detecting high levels, will begin to sound with great power.

If you are sleeping, you will listen without problems. For this reason, you always have to buy a detector that has good sound power. A good idea is to buy a model that has a power of at least 85db.

Operation

The operation is very important to make sure that the detector will warn us when we really need it. Normally they are very easy to use, but before making the purchase make sure that its operation will not give you any problem. Most importantly, you always have to provide the assurance that it will work 24 hours a day without problems.

Size

It is very important to take into account its size, to avoid getting too much attention and can break the aesthetics of the area where it will be installed.

Not forgetting that batteries are very important. The detectors usually include long-lasting batteries that can have an autonomy of up to 10 years, that is, that you can forget about them while still working for your safety.

Right Type

You should not forget that a smoke detector is not the same as a carbon monoxide detector. According to experts, the smoke detector should always be installed on the ceiling to detect it better, while carbon monoxide detectors are recommended to be installed in the most dangerous areas, such as in the area where the cylinder or boiler is located. Of course, they always have to be away from children to prevent them from moving or manipulating.

Location

Normally these types of detectors are usually put in the kitchen, but if you want to have greater security, it can be interesting to buy more than one unit and put them throughout the house. This will ensure that your family is much more protected against carbon monoxide.

Maintenance

Don’t forget that the detectors give a lot of autonomy, as long as you take care of them. This means that from time to time you have to check that they work correctly and you should clean them. If you don’t clean them properly, they may not detect carbon monoxide well, so they wouldn’t give you good services. Cleaning is not complicated at all, as long as you buy a quality product.

Wrapping, carbon monoxide is harmful to your health and you must avoid it at all costs. So, using the above important factors or taking them into consideration, you can buy the best product that fulfills your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Where should a carbon monoxide detector be placed?

The best location for a carbon monoxide detector is on a wall about five feet from the floor. This position allows it to measure the air at a height where people are breathing it. Alternatively, you can place it on the ceiling, about six inches away from the wall.

2. What causes a carbon monoxide alarm to go off?

Carbon monoxide alarms can be triggered by fuel-burning appliances like gas cookers, boilers, and ovens. These appliances release small amounts of CO, which can increase when there is limited ventilation or the vents are blocked or clogged by dust.

3. What leaks carbon monoxide in a house?

Carbon monoxide can build up in a home due to incorrectly installed or poorly maintained appliances, such as stoves, hot water heaters, and fireplaces. Poorly ventilated gas- or wood-burning appliances can also be sources of carbon monoxide.

4. What to do when carbon monoxide alarm goes off?

If a carbon monoxide alarm goes off, assume it is working correctly and that there are unsafe levels of CO in your home. Immediately evacuate the home along with all people and pets, and find fresh air. Call 911 to report the alarm and do not reenter the home until it is deemed safe.

5. What are two warning signs of carbon monoxide poisoning?

Two common warning signs of carbon monoxide poisoning are headache and dizziness. Other symptoms may include weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain, confusion, and flu-like symptoms. Breathing in a significant amount of CO can lead to loss of consciousness or death.

6. Do you need carbon monoxide detector in every room?

Ideally, carbon monoxide detectors should be placed throughout your home, similar to smoke alarms. It is recommended to have a CO detector in each major area of your home, including the kitchen, living/dining room, bedrooms, and office.

7. Can anything else trigger a carbon monoxide detector?

A carbon monoxide detector may be triggered by a malfunctioning water heater or furnace, which can result from improper ventilation, excess gas flow, or other issues. An obstructed chimney can also cause the detector to sound the alarm as the fumes become trapped inside.

Editor's Notes

During our carbon monoxide detector research, we found 25 carbon monoxide detector products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 649,603 customer reviews through our big data system to write the carbon monoxide detectors list. We found that most customers choose carbon monoxide detectors with an average price of $22.28.

The carbon monoxide detectors are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of carbon monoxide detectors, including FIRST ALERT, Kidde, Vzmcov, USBNOVEL. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Howard Chester Avatar

Howard Chester is an architect from New York who holds a master's degree in architectural design, his passions for interior design and home improvement contribute to his extensive knowledge of all things furniture and home goods. Howard Chester Specializes in various architectural and interior design projects. He often publishes articles related to decoration on key websites and interior design magazines.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Amazon FIRST ALERT Kidde Kidde FIRST ALERT Kidde Kidde Vzmcov USBNOVEL FIRST ALERT
Power Source - Corded Electric Battery Powered Plug In Battery Powered Plug In Battery Powered Battery Powered Battery Powered Battery Powered
Alarm - Carbon Monoxide fire safety, battery powered, tamper-resistant Audible Audible Audible Audible Audible Audible Audible
Style - Plug in Alarm with Battery Backup Detector Alarm 1 Pack Battery Powered Detector - 4In1-CO+Gas 2pack 10 Year Battery With Digital Display
Item Weight - 4.2 Ounces 8 ounces 18 Grams 7.2 ounces - 0.01 Pounds 0.22 Pounds 1.6 ounces 0.4 Pounds
Sensor Type - Electrochemical Electrochemical Electrochemical Electrochemical Ionization Electrochemical - Electrochemical Electrochemical
Color - White White White White White Detector Red-CO+GAS - -
Upper Temperature Rating - 105 Degrees Fahrenheit 100 Degrees Fahrenheit 37.8 Degrees Celsius - 37.8 Degrees Celsius 37.8 Degrees Celsius - - -
Global Trade Identification Number - 00029054000682 - - 00029054015938, 00029054000699 00784908007605 00047871088737 - - 00029054014269
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
ftb score rating icon 8.6
ftb score rating icon 8.4
Where to Buy