Low-Level CO Detection Explained
Freon leak detector is a colorless, odorless gas produced when fuel—such as wood, gasoline, propane, coal, natural gas or heating oil—fails to burn completely (incomplete combustion). Carbon Monoxide poisoning can occur at any concentration level and affects people of all ages. It can cause headaches, dizziness and fatigue, and in high levels it is deadly. Inhaled for prolonged periods, it binds with hemoglobin, starving the body of oxygen and causing carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon Monoxide Detectors that begin alarming at low thresholds protect families from the harmful effects of CO exposure before symptoms appear and help prevent serious and potentially fatal long-term exposures.
Whether a detector uses household current or batteries its sensor is based on an electrochemical cell. Electrochemical cells are inexpensive, reliable and highly sensitive. They also require minimal power, making them a cost effective solution for home safety CO detection.
Low-Level CO Detection Explained: Protecting Your Health
Most detectors use a passive sensor that reacts to prolonged exposure to CO gases. This sensor is often less accurate than an active sensor and may need to be tested, re-calibrated and replaced periodically. Generally, detectors that use a passive sensor have a test button that allows the user to verify the operational effectiveness of the battery, circuit and buzzer. However, a full test requires the use of a calibrated source of test gas and an experienced technician.
Regardless of the type of sensor used all detectors that are sold in the United States must meet the minimum sensitivity and alarm characteristics set by Underwriters Laboratory UL 2034. Consumers seeking a Low-Level CO Detector should base their purchase on features desired, expected durability and price.