The Best RV Carbon Monoxide Detector: Top 5 Picks

A good RV carbon monoxide (CO) detector will constantly beep if it detects a good amount of CO in your vehicle. This allows you to take prompt action and avoid possibly significant problems. But what is the best RV carbon monoxide detector you can get in 2022? We conducted thorough research and picked the top 5 available right now!

What is a RV Carbon Monoxide Detector?

In order to prevent CO poisoning, carbon monoxide detectors emit loud sounds when they detect carbon monoxide or other dangerous gas levels.

Human senses cannot detect carbon monoxide since it has no odor, taste, or color. Hence, when harmful levels of CO are accumulated indoors without a person ever being aware of it, it may cause illness.

However, you can prevent the poison associated with CO by taking simple precautions like installing a carbon monoxide detector and maintaining fuel-burning equipment.

Below, we have compiled a list of the best RV carbon monoxide detectors and listed the factors to take into consideration while looking for the best RV carbon monoxide detector.

Best Carbon Monoxide Detector For RV

1. Kidde Nighthawk
2. X-sense RV Carbon Monoxide Detector
3. First Alert RV Carbon Monoxide Detector
4. Safe T-Alert Dual CO/LP Detector
5. MTI Industries 30-442-P-WT RV Propane Gas Alarm

1. Kidde Nighthawk: RV Carbon Monoxide Detector

The Kidde COEG-3 is an AC-powered plug-in CO and explosive gas alarm which safeguards you and your RV from fatal dangers.

When the AC-only systems cannot offer protection in the event of power loss, the KN-COEG-3 features 9V backup batteries.

The constant digital display indicates the amount of CO (if any) detected by the device and the presence of gasses. It has a gas sensor made of metal oxide that detects propane or natural gas.

This product also has an 85-decibel loud pulsing alarm plus 4 quick beeps, 5 seconds of silence, and 4 quick beeps for a carbon monoxide detector. On the other hand, when it detects gas emission, it beeps a 1-second alarm on and another second off, then displays GAS on the screen.

Pros

• Audible alarm
• Stress-free mounting option
• Easy to install
• Two LED displays
• High-level memory
• Voice message system
• Seven years life span
• Five years warranty

Cons

• May take a while to notice the sporadic beeping noise
• It can only detect carbon monoxide and not smoke

2. X-sense Battery Operated RV Carbon Monoxide Detector

The X-sense RV CO detector is another affordable and easy-to-install battery-powered detector.

It includes all of the necessary brackets and screws required to mount it, so all you need to do is drill a few holes and tight it with the screws.

This battery-powered RV carbon monoxide detector comes with an enclosed lithium battery that lasts for ten years, just like the sensor.

Theoretically, this makes life much easier because you don’t need to change any batteries. Most batteries stay up to 5 years; however, some have been reported to last less than 1.

The detector transmits a CO and smoke alert. It includes a digital display of the battery life and CO level, helping you always know where you stand.

There’s also a light that changes color depending on the scenario. Green indicates a satisfactory condition, yellow indicates a problem, and red indicates a loud alert.

Pros

• Long-lasting battery life
• Loud alarm
• Easy to install and use
• LCD display
• Simple design
• Different warning light colors

Cons

• Could go off while cooking
• None accurate sensor

3. First Alert RV Carbon Monoxide Detector Replacement

The First Alert is yet another top-notch battery-powered carbon monoxide detector. It is also built to emit an 85-decibel high-pitched alarm that sounds when peak CO levels are reached, indicating danger. First Alert has a 5-7 year warranty when purchased and is also equipped with a sensitive chirp, which alerts you on when to replace it.

It will detect both big clouds of smoke and CO levels and trigger an audible alarm if the level is dangerous.

Pros

• 5-7 year warranty
• Easy and simple to install
• Two indicator lights for smoke and CO
• It has a mounting bracket

Cons

• The battery does not last long
•  Can beep false alarm

4. Safe T-Alert RV Propane Gas Detector

This affordable, easy-to-use CO detector notifies you in the event of possible carbon monoxide and propane leaks. Being an all-in-one detector, it can fit any RV. Among its advantages is that it does not require batteries as it is a 12-volt RV detector.

During winter, it adapts to severe temperatures. Therefore, there is no need to worry. You can travel freely in any weather condition without worry.

Pros

• Dual sensor alarm
• 12-volt power source
• Perfect and durable for any weather condition
• Effortless hookup

Cons

• Expensive than most RV detectors
• Cannot detect fire or smoke

5. MTI Industries 30-442-P-WT RV Propane Gas Alarm

MTI Industries’ Propane Gas Alarm is an excellent device. It is designed to withstand the harshness of the RV environments, like shock, vibration, and humidity.

MTI is a 12v RV CO detector ideal for folks who enjoy traveling in their RVs. So, if you are thinking about getting this product, you should consider its versatility, as it can be used in the kitchen, whether in a home or RV.

You will like the inbuilt “Alarm Mute” function to prevent false alerts when your RV is safe and fully ventilated. A quick recovery sensor, developed by advanced technology, alerts you instantly in the event of an urgent hazard in your RV. These characteristics will make you feel more at rest since they guarantee your safety anytime you travel.

 Pros

• Instant recovery sensor
• Alarm mute function
• RV compatible
• 12-volt detector for simple installation

Cons

• It constantly beeps whenever the RV battery is getting low

Buying Guide for the Best RV Carbon Monoxide Detector

Before you buy and install a carbon monoxide detector, it is important you look at the following guide.

It is imperative to consider your safety and your family before making any purchase. You should also follow the regulations of your town/area regarding the type of alarm and placement. Each town has its own code. Additionally, ensure the product meets the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) standard 2034.

Here are some other factors to consider before making a purchase.

●    Life Span

The importance of this factor should not be underestimated. RV carbon monoxide detectors can last for five to ten years. So make sure you pick one that can serve you for long without breaking down.

●    Power Source

You can pick from a variety of power sources, like plug-ins, battery-powered, hardwired, digital, innovative, and dual function. Battery-powered detectors can last up to ten years. However, if changing the battery will inconvenience you, it is best to pick a hardwired model.

●    Cost

It is essential to compare the price with other products to know your budget. It is critical to strike the right balance between value and price. You should not buy something you cannot afford.

●    Installation

You want to go for an easy-to-install carbon monoxide detector. You will save money by not having to hire a professional, and you will be able to do it even if you are alone outdoors.

●    Combo Model

A combo model CO can detect smoke and carbon monoxide though it will cost more. You never know what will happen on a trip, so this may come in handy.

RV Carbon Monoxide Detector FAQs

1. How does a carbon monoxide detector work?

A microchip made of silicon encased in a pliable shell transmits an electrical charge into a tiny detecting chamber containing a carbon monoxide sensor. The sensor detects and measures CO concentrations in the air. If the device sensor detects excessive carbon monoxide levels, the silicon microchip will sound an alarm.

2. Where should a carbon monoxide detector be place in an RV?

Ensure it is in a centralized strategic point, at least five feet from the floor of the RV. Carbon monoxide levels remain low when the atmosphere is cold, and they increase when the atmosphere warms. Thus, positioning your carbon monoxide detector in a centralized strategic point will guarantee that it performs well in all cases.

3. Why does the carbon monoxide alarm keep going off in my RV?

If a battery powers your device, it is a possible indication that the batteries need to be replaced. However, it may also mean that the carbon monoxide level is rising gradually. So you should pay close attention and adjust accordingly before the situation gets out of hand.

4. How long do RV carbon monoxide detectors last?

Carbon monoxide detectors should be continually checked to make sure they are working properly. It is suggested to check them before each camping trip in your RV. If purchased before August 2009, your detector has an end of life warning and will continually beep when it is time to be replaced. In general, they last around 7 years.

Conclusion

A CO detector is a must have for first time RV owners. Picking the Best RV carbon monoxide detector demands careful research and consideration of all kinds to ensure high-quality performance. Furthermore, it may be challenging to choose from all of the alternatives available, but note that the safety of your household, workers, campers, and anyone else depends on your decision.

Thus, you should consider all available options and evaluate your criteria for selecting the best RV Carbon Monoxide Detector, keeping it safe at all times.

So, now that you have read the above article on the best RV carbon monoxide detectors, it’s time to make a purchase.