Background

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a troublesome but deadly gas. It is elusive and difficult to track because it cannot be smelled by the human nose. Many customers purchase CO meters to find carbon monoxide leaks or to check safe levels in their home, car, office or work, and also to help determine CO levels. Handheld portable CO meters are very popular and affordable.

What is the difference between a CO meter and a CO detector?

The CO Meter is a handheld, portable device that detects CO gas at concentrations lower than the ppm levels found in typical residential ceiling CO detectors or CO alarms. CO meters are an excellent tool for locating, detecting and sniffing potential sources or pathways of CO leaks. Also, a carbon monoxide detector or carbon monoxide alarm runs very "slowly" because it has a very low refresh rate to conserve battery power. May be slower.

Who Uses CO Meters?

Homeowners and Landlords: Many homeowners and landlords purchase CO meters to test for and sniff for potential carbon monoxide sources when they suspect a CO leak. Likewise, RVs, campers, and transporters do the same for maximum safety.

Plumbers and HVAC: Plumbers and HVAC professionals are also major purchasers of CO meters. They use this tool to confirm any cracked heater replacements, proper ventilation, back flow or CO buildup. Also helps to confirm proper equipment installation.

Regulatory Inspectors, First Responders, EMS: City, county and state authorities including paramedics and first responders routinely use CO meters. They use them for various requirements. For example, EMS personnel use them to protect themselves to ensure they do not enter a toxic environment of "self-harm". City inspectors use them to make sure public facilities are safe to use.

Building Maintenance Technicians: CO meters are also frequently used by building maintenance personnel. They can track carbon monoxide buildup in garages, facilities, pool heater rooms, and other "common" carbon monoxide leak locations to maximize worker and occupant safety.

Job Safety Officer: Many companies employ dedicated safety teams, health safety and environmental officers, and safety experts who are responsible for ensuring the safety of all workers in industrial, manufacturing, or occupational spaces. Periodic inspections are required, including basic carbon monoxide measurements with a CO meter. This type of work is especially important in industries where combustion, manufacturing, or carbon monoxide is a known buildup or by-product. Another important part is the use of gasoline-powered tools on construction sites such as saws, generators, mixers, forklifts and many other machinery that emit carbon monoxide.

Does the CO meter have an alarm?

Most CO meters have alarms. Typical alerts include LED, buzzer and vibration. A solid CO meter will have all three types of alarms for added safety - consider using it in a very noisy mine and clip it in your pocket so you might not see it. In this case, a vibrating alarm might save your life. Some CO meters allow the user to change the alarm threshold.