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What features come with a carbon monoxide detector?

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The basic function of a carbon monoxide detector never changes, but you can purchase a detector that is more or less fancy or basic. While the below features will not impact the operation of a detector, they can make a detector easier to use and understand.

• Battery powered vs. plug-in detector: Battery-powered carbon monoxide detectors can be placed anywhere and remain active during power outages. Plug-in detectors, on the other hand, eliminate the need for batteries and are especially easy to install. Another option is to purchase a plug-in detector with battery backup—this model runs on your home’s electricity system except during a power outage, when it switches over to battery power.

• Test button: All carbon monoxide detectors should come equipped with a test button that allows you to set off the alarm in order to make sure it is working properly.

• Silence button: The silence button is what you would push to turn off the alarm when it alerts you to the presence of carbon monoxide.

• Remote control: A remote control allows you to test and silence an alarm from locations in the house away from the detector.

• Digital display: Some carbon monoxide detectors show you the current level of carbon monoxide in the air. In addition, many detectors with digital display also come equipped with a memory feature that retains the highest level of carbon monoxide recorded.

• Voice alarm: If you have more than one carbon monoxide detector, you might want to consider purchasing a detector that includes a voice alarm. A voice alarm not only alerts you to the presence of carbon monoxide, it tells you which specific detector has become infected with the chemical, thus alerting you to the area with the highest concentration of carbon monoxide.

• Power indicator: A power indicator (usually a blinking light or a light of a certain color) is a common feature that signals that the detector is active and receiving power.

Some companies also offer combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. If you are going to purchase both kinds of alarms, you can consider purchasing both in the same unit. In general, the above features are also available in these combination models. In any case, choose a carbon monoxide detector that is simple enough for everyone in your house to use.

Next Page: How should I install and use a carbon monoxide detector?

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