First Alert Carbon Monoxide Alarm

Last updated: October 13, 2023


Electrochemical sensors help the First Alert Carbon Monoxide Alarm detect both low and high carbon monoxide levels. If you have other First Alert devices, you can connect your carbon monoxide detector to those for comprehensive home protection. The First Alert Carbon Monoxide Alarm also provides location awareness to let you where the issue is in your home.

First Alert Carbon Monoxide Alarm

We looked at the top Carbon Monoxide Detectors and dug through the reviews from some of the most popular review sites. Through this analysis, we've determined the best Carbon Monoxide Detector you should buy.

Product Details

Key Takeaway: Connects with other First Alert devices in your home. Can also tell you where the issue is in your house.

In our analysis of 47 expert reviews, the First Alert Carbon Monoxide Alarm placed 1st when we looked at the top 9 products in the category. For the full ranking, see below.

From The Manufacturer

The First Alert SCO501CN-3ST Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm with Voice Location detects both smoke and carbon monoxide in a single device. The alarm interconnects with up to 18 other First Alert enabled alarms in your home to create a wireless safety network. The photoelectric smoke sensor is designed to reduce false alarms from cooking smoke or shower steam while remaining sensitive to real danger. The advanced electrochemical CO sensor detects carbon monoxide leaks from multiple sources, including faulty fuel-burning appliances. A loud 85-decibel siren and a voice alarm with 11 programmable locations indicate where and what the threat is.

Expert Reviews


What reviewers liked

These photoelectric devices with voice alerts can interconnect and allow you to identify threats by location.
The Voice Alarm is its standout feature. You can program up to 11 locations within your home, and the alarm will verbally alert you precisely where the danger is.
- Tuck
It uses electrochemical sensors that get top marks from experts for recognizing both high and low carbon monoxide levels, and testers say it has a very accurate display.
The First Alert Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm is a terrific solution because it has an electrochemical CO sensor and is interconnected so it alerts the other connected alarms when there are dangerous conditions
The SCO501CN-3ST uses radio technology to set up a wireless network with other First Alert interconnectable alarms -- smoke, CO or combination -- without the complications that a hardwired interconnected alarm system would entail

What reviewers didn't like

Some reviewers say they have had issues with false alarms or the units not linking properly, however. Warranty is seven years.
Complaints of false alarms
You might need to experiment a little with alarm location to make sure that each unit is within range of at least one other interconnected alarm
View our Carbon Monoxide Detector buying guide for in-depth advice and recommendations.

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