February 2008
Features
Digital display (CO alarm only)
These show relatively precise CO levels in parts per million, rather than simply beeping. Some also show the peak level since they were last reset, warning you of any spikes that occurred while the detector was unattended.
Low-battery indicator
Low-battery indicators can include a low-battery announcement, chirp signal and/or flashing digital display.
Interconnecting (smoke alarm only)
Interconnecting, either by wiring alarms together or having them linked wirelessly, sets off all the alarms in your home when any one goes off. That allows your family the best chance to hear or be awakened by an alarm set off anywhere in your home.
Remote-control mute
Some CO and combination CO/smoke alarms come equipped to work with a television remote control, making it easier to silence a nuisance alarm.
Safety lights
Some smoke alarms provide path illumination—a plus in the dark.
Silence button
If nuisance alarms have been frequent at your home, consider buying an alarm that incorporates a silence button, which typically quiets the horn for a few minutes.
These show relatively precise CO levels in parts per million, rather than simply beeping. Some also show the peak level since they were last reset, warning you of any spikes that occurred while the detector was unattended.
Low-battery indicator
Low-battery indicators can include a low-battery announcement, chirp signal and/or flashing digital display.
Interconnecting (smoke alarm only)
Interconnecting, either by wiring alarms together or having them linked wirelessly, sets off all the alarms in your home when any one goes off. That allows your family the best chance to hear or be awakened by an alarm set off anywhere in your home.
Remote-control mute
Some CO and combination CO/smoke alarms come equipped to work with a television remote control, making it easier to silence a nuisance alarm.
Safety lights
Some smoke alarms provide path illumination—a plus in the dark.
Silence button
If nuisance alarms have been frequent at your home, consider buying an alarm that incorporates a silence button, which typically quiets the horn for a few minutes.
