Have you noticed that winter storms are already freezing out Americans nationwide? Besides, the rampant power outages plus ice-cold temperatures are making a difficult situation more unbearable. And like many citizens, you’re probably turning to generators and space heaters, oblivious of the fire hazards and CO poisoning threat they can pose.
On top of equipping your home for fire safety, it’s also vital that you have a carbon monoxide detector. But how would it feel to combine the ability to sense various threats like fire or smoke and CO? It means getting a single dual-function device for less, instead of investing in two separate units.
If that’s what you want, then you need to keep it here. Let’s walk you through the ten best nighthawk smoke and carbon monoxide alarm reviews to get you started. And remember to check our comprehensive buyer’s guide and more, right after that.
The 10 Best Nighthawk Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Units Reviews
1) Kidde KN-COPP-3 Nighthawk CO Alarm
Topping our list of the ten best nighthawk smoke and carbon monoxide alarm reviews is this KN-COPP-3 Nighthawk CO Alarm by Kidde. Although it doesn’t boast the newest in CO detection tech, it’s a winner in dual-functionality, reliable performance, and most of all, affordability.
Top Features
- Test buttons
- Dual smoke/carbon monoxide detection
- Corded electric power source
- LED lighting
- Six-foot power cord
- Electrochemical CO sensor
- Five-year limited warranty
- Peak level reading display
2) First Alert CO605 Plug-in Nighthawk CO Alarm
When it comes to an easy-to-install CO detector, the First Alert’s CO605 dual smoke/carbon monoxide detector is hard to beat. Forget the hassles with screws, drills, and replacing batteries. Simply plug it into your electricity mains and you’re all set. For continuous protection, including during a power outage, it’s pre-installed with a 9-Volt lithium backup battery.
Top Features
- A Test / Mute button
- Dual smoke/carbon monoxide detection
- Corded electric power source
- Electrochemical CO sensor
- Seven-year limited warranty
- Built-in battery backup
3) First Alert BRK SC9120B Smoke and CO Alarm
Another nighthawk in First Alert’s combo-alarm series is this BRK SC9120B model. It offers all the features you’ll want in a dual smoke/CO detecting system. In addition to the array of cutting-edge functions, the hardwired combo unit has an onboard backup battery for seamless CO monitoring even in power outages.
Top Features
- Hardwired configuration
- A Test / Mute button
- Dual smoke/carbon monoxide detection
- Dual, Electrochemical + Ionization CO and smoke sensing system
- Seven-year limited warranty
- Built-in battery backup
4) Fire Alarm 21026051 Kidde and Smoke Detector
The reliable i9050 Kidde 21026051 series is a top pick for a CO sensor. Available as a battery-operated model, i9050 Kidde sends an early warning sign when you and your family are in danger, of CO poisoning or fire. It is easy to set up and has a handy test button to verify the system’s functions.
Top Features
- Smoke and fire detection
- Battery-run electronic circuit
- Test button
- Photoelectric and Ionization sensors
- Wire-free installation
- Battery replacement indicator
- UL-certified
- 10-year limited warranty
5) Kidde KN-COEG-3 Nighthawk Alarm
Maybe you are using that backup generator in your basement to power and heat your home amidst intermittent power outages. And oblivious of the CO poisoning hazard or possible home fire threatening your family, you want to keep them safe. Investing in combination CO/Gas alarms such as this KN-COEG-3 Nighthawk is king.
Top Features
- Peak level memory
- CO and explosive gas detection
- Corded electric power source
- Test and reset button
- Electrochemical CO sensor
- Wire-free installation
- Five-year limited warranty
6) Kidde KN-COSM-IBA Hardwire CO & Smoke Detector
The KN-COSM-IBA CO detector also pulls double duty as a smoke alarm. Its fast response to threats includes a voice warning feature, making it easy to identify where the alarm is sounding from.
Top Features
- CO and smoke detection
- Interconnectable
- Hardwired electric power source
- Electrochemical CO sensor
- Voice warning
7) Google S3003LWES Nest Protect CO Detector
For a comprehensive CO alarm system, don’t look beyond Google’s Nest Protect CO & Smoke Alarm. The dual-purpose device checks for both smoke and toxic carbon monoxide. And there’s a user-friendly app that simplifies how you monitor the system. Moreover, the unit sends additional alerts in case of a problem.
Top Features
- Dedicated app
- Auto lights-on Pathlight tech
- CO and smoke detection
- Interconnectable
- Wired battery power source
- Electrochemical CO sensor
- Voice warning
8) Kidde i12010SCO Co & Smoke Detector
Are you in the market for a product that’s both a CO and smoke detector? Look no further. The i12010SCO alarm by Kidde lets you cross two items off your bucket list via its 2-in-1 unit. There are a plethora of positive remarks from reviewers to back up the carbon monoxide detector’s usability, performance, and ease of installation.
Top Features
- CO and smoke detection
- Interconnectable
- 85 dB audio alarm
- Corded electric power source
- Peak level memory
- Electrochemical CO sensor
- Voice warning
9) Kidde 6-pack 120v i12040 Smoke Alarm
Kidde is the undisputed go-to manufacturer of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors with a host of products that feature cutting-edge tech. This i12040 six-pack master unit isn’t an exception.
Top Features
- Corded electric
- Six units in one pack
- Test button
- Tamper-proof lock pin
- Alarm mute button
- Interconnectable
- 1-UL Listed
10) Kidde 1-pack 120v i12040 Smoke Alarm
You cannot tell when a fire might threaten the safety of your family. Getting this i12040 Kidde alarm guarantees your protection from the perils of fire and smoke.
Top Features
- LED indicator
- Test button
- Battery backup
- Interconnectable
- Ionization sensor
- Mute button
- Alarm memory
- 10-year limited warranty
Nighthawk Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Buyer’s Guide
Carbon monoxide and smoke combo alarms indicate the presence of CO gas or fire in your home. Although CO is a byproduct of incomplete burning solid or gas fuel, it can still sip into your electric-powered home from outside sources. In large amounts, the gas can quickly cause suffocation. Since it is a tasteless, odorless, and colorless gas, you must install a CO sensor to detect its presence.
Having a combo CO/smoke alarm offers the convenience of two detection systems in one handy unit. That’s why the best nighthawk smoke and carbon monoxide alarm is a necessary installation for the home.
1) Best Installation of CO/Smoke Detector
Experts recommend having multiple carbon monoxide detectors in your home. Although the best placement varies with your home’s configuration, here are general tips to consider:
- Install at least one CO sensor on each floor.
- Have one carbon monoxide alarm at the basement level.
- Place one sensor directly outside each sleeping area.
- Install one CO detector within 10 feet of your garage, for a house-attached garage.
Besides, there are guiding principles concerning places not to install a CO alarm:
- Never install the alarm close to a gas appliance of any kind to avoid false detections.
- Don’t place CO sensors in moist or humid areas like laundry rooms.
- Ensure detectors are away from curtains or cabinet doors for free airflow.
- Keep sensors away from drafty areas, windows, or direct sunlight.
- Do not place CO detectors near the ceiling.
For safe installation and operation, be sure to read the manufacturer’s manual and instructions.
2) Types of CO Detectors by Power Source
Carbon monoxide alarms can vary by many dynamics, including power sources, such as:
- Battery-operated: Battery-powered CO detectors are an inexpensive choice and easy to install. Moreover, they work even in power outages, which is when carbon monoxide is likely to enter the home. Be alert about changing batteries because these detectors depend on batteries for power. Note that the unit may not be working efficiently by the time you get the low-battery alarm. Consider changing the batteries at least twice annually, for best results.
- Corded Electric/Plug-in: Plug-in CO sensors are the easiest to install, allowing you to fix multiple units in your home. Most corded electric detectors include a backup battery for continuous monitoring during a power outage. The location of most electrical outlets can make the plug-in sensor less ideal. Having it near the floor makes the unit inefficient since CO gas is denser than air.
- Hardwired: In terms of safety, hardwired CO alarms are top-of-the-line. It’s the reason some states’ regulations require you to install interconnected, hardwired sensors in new residential construction. Hardwired systems link several units together so that sensing elevated CO levels in any room sounds an alarm throughout the system. In this way, you can leave the house before gas in the basement, for instance, reaches other rooms where you could be exposed. Unlike plug-ins, these systems are costlier and require professional installation. You’ll also want to make sure the hardwired system comes with a backup battery.
3) Types of CO Detectors by Power Technology
Carbon monoxide detectors will have one or more of the following sensors:
- Opto Chemical sensor: Carbon monoxide combo alarms with Opto-chemical sensors are the least expensive option in the marketplace. With a pad that changes color, this sensor can only detect the presence or absence of CO gas. But they are incapable of measuring specific carbon monoxide levels.
- Metal-oxide semiconductor: It relies on a chemical reaction between carbon monoxide and oxide to track CO levels. The majority of nighthawk smoke and carbon monoxide alarm systems with this sensor can last a decade.
- Electrochemical sensor: It is the best option if you’re looking for a sensor that provides the most protection. It employs a chemical reaction that generates an electric current that triggers the alarm. Along with being the most durable of all sensors, it performs well over ranging home temperatures.
- Biomimetic sensor: In this category, sensors have a gel or liquid coating mixture with color variations indicating the presence of CO. On the downside, they have a short lifespan of three years.
Features To Look For In Nighthawk Smoke And Carbon Monoxide Detector Alarms
- Temperature Variation: An alarm that auto-adjusts CO detection settings according to temperature changes hardly makes false triggers. Accuracy levels remain the same throughout temperature fluctuations and humidity.
- Home Automation: Smart CO alarms let you monitor gas levels remotely via downloadable smartphone apps. You’ll receive notifications and manage your alarm system even if you’re away from home.
- Dual Smoke/Carbon Monoxide Detection: An all-in-one function combining a smoke sensor and CO detector in a single device with one power source. It has separate alarms for CO and smoke events.
- Digital Display: Reading carbon monoxide levels and tracking changes is faster on a digital display.
Combination CO/Smoke Alarm Maintenance
The lifespan of combo alarms varies between five and ten years, depending on your model and make. Wiping down your detector weekly keeps away dust and debris, allowing you to get the most out of it. Test your nighthawk smoke and carbon monoxide alarm monthly, just as your burglar alarm.
Press the test button on your device to see if the siren still works. For an older CO sensor, use a separate CO meter to verify the accuracy of your detector. If the smoke/CO combo alarm fails to go off during testing, you should probably be shopping for a replacement.
The Bottom Line
Carbon monoxide levels can rise fast, meaning you should evacuate the moment you hear an alarm trigger. However, having CO/smoke combo alarms offers protection against two real threats to your safety at home. So, once you decide on the type of nighthawk smoke and carbon monoxide alarm that fits your home, ensure you buy enough units to cover each floor in your home. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and use the right power source for uninterrupted monitoring.