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Carbon monoxide (CO) is often called the silent killer for a reason — you can’t see it, smell it, or taste it, yet a small leak can become deadly very quickly. That’s why a reliable carbon monoxide detector is one of the smartest safety purchases you can make for your home. Whether you rent or own, live in a flat or a house, a CO alarm gives you peace of mind and time to act. Think of it like a smoke alarm’s quiet cousin — always on duty, waiting to shout if trouble brews.
Carbon monoxide is an invisible gas produced when fuels such as natural gas, petrol, oil, wood, or coal burn incompletely. In a poorly ventilated room, CO can build up and starve your body of oxygen. Symptoms can mimic flu or tiredness, which is why a detector that measures CO levels and sounds an alarm is essential for safety.
CO does its damage quietly. You might wake with a headache, feel dizzy, or not notice anything until someone collapses. Detectors monitor levels continuously and warn you at predefined thresholds so you can open windows, turn off appliances, and get fresh air — or call an expert if required. Prevention beats panic every time.
Not all CO alarms are created equal. Understanding the main types helps you match a device to your needs and home layout. You’ll find basic battery models, mains-powered units with battery backup, and smart detectors that link to your phone or home hub.
Battery-only alarms are simple to fit and cheap to buy, making them ideal for renters or quick coverage. Just remember to test them regularly and replace the battery as recommended — usually once a year. They’re portable too, so you can move them between rooms as needed.
These are a popular choice for homeowners aiming for reliability. They connect to the home electrical supply so you don’t worry about dead batteries, but include a battery backup if the power fails. They’re often installed by an electrician and are a good option for covering central areas of a house.
Smart CO alarms connect to Wi‑Fi or a home hub and send alerts to your phone. That’s handy if you’re out and need to know if an alarm has triggered. Some models also integrate with other smart home devices, so lights can flash and doors unlock automatically in an emergency. Expect to pay more, but you get remote alerts and advanced logging of CO events.
When shopping, look for trusted retailers that stock well-known brands and provide clear information on standards and battery types. Here are reliable UK options where you can buy carbon monoxide detectors both online and in-store.
Screwfix is a go-to for professionals and DIY enthusiasts. They stock a wide range of CO alarms, from budget battery models to mains-powered and interlinked units. If you like fast pickup, many branches offer next-day collection. Screwfix often lists technical specs and approvals, which helps when you’re comparing models.
B&Q carries practical, easy-to-install CO alarms and often bundles alarms with other safety items for the home. They’re a good stop if you want to walk in and pick up a detector while buying other DIY supplies. Expect simple guides and friendly staff to point you toward suitable models for kitchens, boilers, or garages.
Argos mixes affordability with convenience, offering both well-known brands and value options. Their website usually includes customer reviews, which can be helpful when weighing up real-world reliability. Click & Collect is popular, so you can order online and collect the same day from a local store.
Wickes often focuses on building-grade safety products and stocks CO alarms suited to new builds and renovations. If your project involves installing multiple alarms or wiring them in, Wickes is worth checking for compatible mains-powered units and installation accessories.
John Lewis is known for quality and customer service, and their range includes premium CO alarms and smart options. If you’re looking for a detector that blends with home aesthetics or you want a trusted warranty, John Lewis is a sensible choice.
Amazon has the broadest selection, including niche and international brands that may not be stocked by high street stores. Read verified reviews and check seller ratings carefully. Prime delivery and large choice make Amazon a practical option if you know the exact model you want.
Homebase stocks straightforward, practical CO detectors and often features seasonal discounts. They’re a sensible choice for homeowners doing small upgrades or fitting alarms alongside other home safety gear.
Toolstation offers trade-focused products at competitive prices. If you’re buying multiple units for a renovation or a landlord fitting alarms across several properties, Toolstation’s trade packs and bulk options can save money.
Robert Dyas carries lifestyle-friendly CO alarms and compact battery models. They’re handy if you want a basic, reliable alarm without fuss and prefer to shop at a smaller high-street retailer.
Brand matters when safety is involved. Trusted manufacturers invest in testing and quality control. Some reliable names you’ll encounter across UK retailers include Kidde, FireAngel, Ei Electronics, Honeywell, and Nest Protect (Google Nest). These brands typically conform to relevant standards and provide clear guidance on sensor life and maintenance.
Look for CO alarms that meet British or European standards, such as EN 50291. Certifications show the device has passed safety and performance tests. Retailers usually list these approvals in product descriptions — a quick check that’s worth doing every time.
Choosing the right detector is more than price and looks. Think about power source, where you’ll place alarms, whether you need interlinked units, and if smartphone alerts would help. Here’s a practical guide to pick a model that fits your lifestyle.
Every home is different. If you have multiple floors, install an alarm on each level and place one within about 10 feet of sleeping areas. For rooms with fuel-burning appliances — boilers, fireplaces, or rooms with a garage attached — you’ll want a detector nearby to catch leaks early.
Choose battery alarms for convenience or mains-powered units with battery backup for long-term reliability. Interlinked alarms — ones that trigger every unit when one detects CO — are excellent for larger homes. Smart detectors add remote alerts but weigh up subscription or app requirements before buying.
CO sensors wear out over time; many alarms state an end-of-life at 5 to 10 years. Always note the manufacturer’s recommended replacement interval and put a reminder in your calendar. Test alarms regularly — at least once a month — and replace batteries per the instructions. Regular testing means you won’t be caught with a dead alarm when it matters most.
Installation is often straightforward, but a little know-how helps you get the best performance. Whether you DIY or hire an electrician, these tips will ensure your alarm works properly when needed.
Place CO alarms at head height in rooms where people sleep and in central locations on each floor. Avoid fitting them directly above ovens or too close to windows and doors where drafts can affect readings. On walls, set them about 6 to 12 inches from the ceiling if possible; ceiling-mounted units should be centered in the room.
At minimum, fit a CO alarm in any room containing a solid fuel appliance (like a wood-burning stove) and near sleeping areas. Ideally, cover each floor and any rooms adjoining garages or with gas appliances. It’s cheaper to prevent a catastrophe than to replace an alarm after the fact.
Many battery alarms are simple to install yourself, but mains-powered systems or interlinked setups often need an electrician. If you’re unsure about wiring or where to position alarms for best coverage, getting a pro can save headaches and ensure legal safety standards are met.
Smart CO alarms bring features like app alerts, history logs, and integration with other smart devices. If you travel a lot or want instant notifications when you’re away, a smart alarm can alert you to problems before they escalate. Just be mindful of possible subscription fees for cloud services and the need for a stable Wi‑Fi connection.
People often pick the cheapest alarm, forget to check standards, or ignore sensor life. Don’t be tempted by bargain-basement models without clear certifications. Also, don’t install a CO alarm in the same room as a cooker unless you follow manufacturer guidance; false readings can occur if placed too close to combustion sources.
Prices vary: simple battery alarms can start around £15, while mains-powered or smart alarms can range higher. If you need multiple units or professional installation, factor that into your budget. Think of it as an investment in safety — like putting a good lock on your front door.
Before you hit buy, run through a quick checklist: Is the alarm certified to EN 50291? Does it suit your power preference (battery/mains/smart)? Is the sensor life stated? Do you need interlinked or smart capabilities? Is the placement plan covering bedrooms and each floor? Answering these will narrow your choices fast.
Once alarms are installed, safety doesn’t stop. Test alarms monthly, replace batteries as recommended, and swap out units at the end of their sensor life. Also, have fuel-burning appliances serviced annually by a qualified engineer — the best alarm is a backup to good appliance maintenance.
If you’re a landlord or fitting alarms in multiple properties, check current UK guidance and any local requirements. For householders, manufacturer manuals and retailer product pages usually explain placement and maintenance clearly. When in doubt, ask a qualified gas-safe or electrical professional to assess your home.
Conclusion: A carbon monoxide detector is a small device with huge returns in safety. Whether you pick a simple battery alarm from Argos, a trade-grade unit from Screwfix, a premium model from John Lewis, or a smart option via Amazon UK, what matters most is correct placement, regular testing, and replacing units when their life expires. Don’t wait for a scare — fit the right CO alarm today and sleep easier knowing your home has a guardian quietly watching over you.
