I expect the issue isn't the batteries, but the cost of the detector itself. Most people don't realize that (unlike smoke detectors), most CO detectors have a lifespan of 7-9 years. The sensor component in a CO detector is a chemical fuel cell (a device that chemically combines oxygen and a fuel to produce electricity) that runs on CO. The smoke detector senses the drop in current between the plates and sets off the horn. Speaking of alarms, whenever the words "nuclear radiation" are used an alarm goes off in many people's minds. The amount of radiation in a smoke detector is extremely small. It is also predominantly alpha radiation. Next to prevention of the production of toxic CO gas, the best defense against this deadly killer is a CO alarm. These devices can detect toxic concentration of CO in the air, sound an alarm, and thereby save lives. How do CO alarms work? A CO detector sounds an alarm because it detects an elevated level of CO in the household. HOWEVER, eventually at least until one of two things will happen…. 1. The batteries go dead. 2. It degrades – expires – due to its effective shelf life. Tip: A good habit: Replace smoke detector batteries during a notable time of the year such as the New Year, January 1. Otherwise, this might happen to you: Plus, enjoy simple setup and improved wireless range via Z-Wave Plus. Works With Ring Features: Receive real-time notifications in the Ring App when smoke or carbon monoxide is detected. Subscription required, sold separately. 1. Automatically notifies our professional monitoring 2 team to request emergency responders to your home. Spread the love. Our smoke, carbon monoxide, and combination alarms will perform between 40 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature drops, the battery may be impacted by the cooler temperature and chirp as it will read as, “Low.”. Reasonable exposure within this temperature range will not cause permanent damage to your alarms. When a fire breaks out, there's no time to waste. Vivint smoke detectors work nonstop to provide accurate, timely detection so you can rest easy knowing your family is safe and sound. Find out how Vivint smoke detectors can help protect your home and family. Call us at 844.481.8630 for a free quote today. 2 days ago · Know Your Guardian: Carbon Monoxide Detectors. CO detectors come in various sizes and easily attach to walls or ceilings. The round ones are typically 4 to 6 inches in diameter, and the square ones are roughly 3 to 5 inches long. The compact guardians measure how much carbon monoxide has saturated a space, and will sound an alarm when it jHTaxfN.