A colorless and odorless gas, carbon dioxide is present in the air we breathe at very low concentrations. However, if levels rise it can cause health issues including CO poisoning. The danger occurs when carbon dioxide displaces oxygen in the body causing an oxygen deficiency leading to illness or even death.

Carbon Dioxide Detectors are designed to monitor CO levels in indoor spaces, alerting users to the need for ventilation. This is especially useful during the pandemic where it is advisable to keep air fresh and ventilated in areas of the home such as kitchens, living rooms and bedrooms.

Carbon Dioxide Detector: Why It’s Essential for Indoor Air Quality

A Carbon Dioxide Detector uses an infrared sensor to measure the presence of CO gases in the air. Carbon Dioxide molecules absorb infrared light but allow other wavelengths to pass through the detector, and a signal is sent to an alarm unit if there is a high concentration of carbon dioxide in the air.

There are different types of Carbon Dioxide Detectors, some are portable while others are fixed and attached to the wall. They can provide a digital readout of the current CO level and some can even be connected to smart devices, giving you more control over your environment and safety. Regardless of type, all Carbon Dioxide Detectors must be compliant with Underwriter Laboratory (UL) standard UL 2034 to ensure they have the correct alarm characteristics. It is also important to consult your local fire department about the best placement and maintenance of CO detectors.