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What are the Pros and Cons of a Plug in Carbon Monoxide Detector?
A carbon monoxide alarm is a special alarm that monitors the level of carbon monoxide within a specific area. This type of alarm protects humans and animals from carbon monoxide poisoning. A plug in carbon monoxide detector is typically a small alarm that can be plugged into a wall electrical outlet. This easy installation is one of the greatest benefits of the plug-in version.
One of the primary deficiencies of a plug in carbon monoxide detector is the need for electrical power. In the event of a power failure, home protection is lost. This could leave the family vulnerable during storms or other natural disasters.
A hybrid version of this type of carbon monoxide detector has a battery backup. With battery backup, the detector will automatically switch to DC power when AC power is lost. This provides added security to families during power failures.
The digital display of the plug in carbon monoxide detector is a benefit. These units typically display the level of poison particles floating in the air. If the level exceeds the maximum threshold, the system will sound an alarm.
Portability is one of the greatest benefits of the plug in carbon monoxide detector. These detectors can be taken on vacation and used in hotel rooms. This provides poison security to families while they are traveling.
When a carbon monoxide detector starts beeping, it is important to get out of the home and call for emergency responders. This beeping will begin when the detector senses poison in the air. This poison is odorless and smokeless, which makes it hard for an individual to notice without an alarm.
When smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detector batteries get low, the system will execute small beeps. This is designed to warn the owner before the batteries die. This is not typical of a plug in carbon monoxide detector. If an individual hears the detector beep, he should not assume it is a false alarm.
Carbon monoxide poisoning can cause serious health problems. These include headaches, vomiting, and even death. An individual should seek immediate medical attention if he has been exposed to excessive carbon monoxide. Neglecting these symptoms could lead to long-term health problems.
A carbon monoxide detector is important regardless of the type. The plug in, hybrid, and pure battery model all provide good protection. When selecting a model, user preference is typically the most important. Hybrid models are typically the most expensive and flexible.
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![Plug in carbon monoxide detectors can be taken on vacation and used in hotel rooms.]()
By: robert lerichPlug in carbon monoxide detectors can be taken on vacation and used in hotel rooms. -
![Plug in carbon monoxide detectors cannot be used without electricity, making them useless during storms or disasters.]()
By: Ray KasprzakPlug in carbon monoxide detectors cannot be used without electricity, making them useless during storms or disasters. -
![Battery operated carbon monoxide detectors can be placed almost anywhere, unlike plug in detectors.]()
By: SerenethosBattery operated carbon monoxide detectors can be placed almost anywhere, unlike plug in detectors.
Discussion Comments
@NathanG - It depends on where you’re going. If you are traveling to the far flung reaches of the globe and you stay in a one star hotel (a mistake in itself) I’d pack every kind of alarm possible.
It’s far easier to choose better accommodations of course. The more well known chains of hotels should be okay.
@Charred - Would you really take a portable carbon monoxide detector with you on vacation as the article suggests?
I think that is going a bit too far, personally, almost a step into paranoia. Surely hotel rooms should have carbon monoxide detectors installed in their bedrooms.
@Mammmood - I’d check on carbon monoxide detector ratings regardless of which unit you buy. This is one area where you can’t afford to have poor quality.
I definitely wouldn’t encourage you to buy on price. How much does your life cost? You can go online and check on some of the reviews of the various models.
I’ve found that in addition to the features listed in this article, each product has its own tweaks and perks that give it added value – assuming you think such things represent value.
It appears that the hybrid version of the plug in carbon monoxide detector combines the best of both worlds. You get convenience, portability and security in case of a power failure.
I also like the digital display. The digital carbon monoxide detector gives you a constant indicator of how you’re doing. I’d rather know this at all times rather than waiting until poison begins to build up and it’s too late.
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