bit-tech Shopping: Kidde Digital Carbon Monoxide Detector, Battery Operated

Rating: 10

Time with product: 2 Days

Strengths: Constant LCD display, back light, reliable mfd.

Weaknesses: None so far

Summary: I have been wanting to install CO2 monitor for some time. Last week's news of how suchan alarm saved a family rushed me to the website. I have read up for some time. Between Kidde and First Alert, I believe Kidde is better brand for CO2 alarm. I was going to get the Kidde AC plug in model but decided on this one instead based on better reviews. Did not disappoint. Comes with three AA Energizer batteries and easy to read manual. Easy install. Tests out exactly as described. There are several ways to spot that it is working properly, from the flashing decimal pt to the flashing operating green light. Don't settle for one (unless you have more than one) w/o LCD display of CO2 level. This one has it, including history of past peak reading. Tests it near stove, furnance, no false alarm. Highly recommend this particular model.

Rating: 10

Time with product: 4 Days

Strengths: Digital display, electrochemical sensor, recommended by firefighters & Consumer Reports.

Weaknesses: None yet.

Summary: According to Consumer reports, this is one of the best CO Detectors you can buy. Firefighters regularly recommend this brand of detectors more over any of the other cheaper brands. Since it uses an electrochemical sensor, it provides more accurate results and a longer lifespan. The digital display is great at seeing exactly how much CO there is in the air. Having a generator to use during hurricane season meant this was a must-have item for me. It is a life-saver when you can't smell, see, or feel deadly CO gas.

Rating: 10

Time with product: 1 Week

Strengths: Unit comes with excellent instructions. Very convenient to have batteries included so alarm can be put to immediate use. Backlight for display is also smart feature.

Weaknesses: None noted. Unit has all features one could expect.

Summary: This is a great carbon monoxide alarm. The digital display is easy to read and the backlight makes placement choices unlimited. The instructions are very easy to follow and even include a template for the mounting screws. The batteries can be replaced from the front without removing the unit from its mounting. The markings on the face of the unit are also very straightforward making it unnecessary to refer to the instruction manual.