Test your CO alarm by using our calibrated carbon monoxide alarm test kit. Available in a 520ml (7 tests) cans.

• Simple to use
• Entirely Safe
• Sensor inclusive test
• Kit components in lid
• Tests all CO alarms
• Approved by the Charity, CO-Awareness Ltd
• Calibrated test gas
• 7 tests per can
• Low cost per test

Frequently Asked Questions

The simple to use kit can test the sensor in all carbon monoxide (CO) alarm models to BS EN or UL standards. The concentration of CO is at a specific calibrated level that makes it perfectly safe to use.

Unlike smoke detectors, CO alarms are not an instant alarm. The shroud is used to envelop the CO alarm. This is to ensure an effective amount of carbon monoxide is maintained around the alarm sensor during the testing process.

The valve is adhered to the shroud with a point of access for the test gas. The point of access is clearly shown by an arrow. The test gas is administered via an extension tube attached to the aerosol. The CO sensor is subjected to a five second spray of Detectagas, then the extension tube is withdrawn and the valve access point is covered by the valve seal.

Within a period of six minutes (generally around two minutes) the CO alarm should sound, indicating that the sensor is functioning properly. The test label should be completed to ensure each sensor test is logged accurately. CO alarms typically have a life of around 5 years and should be tested at least every 3-6 months.

The manufacturer's instructions for testing the alarm should be followed as normal.

If the carbon monoxide alarm does not sound after being tested with Detectagas, the sensor within the alarm is no longer functioning and a new CO alarm will need to be installed as soon as possible.

• There are around 100 million CO detectors installed in the U.S.A.  and 10 million installed in the U.K.
• The Sensor in a CO detector lasts around five years
• Half of the detectors installed are over five years old
• The test button on a CO detector does not test the sensor with carbon monoxide nor does it prove that CO is reaching the sensor via the casing vents
• If the test button is pressed on a CO detector with a faulty sensor but with a working battery and alarm bell it may appear to work but is not providing any protection against CO poisoning

The installation of CO alarms in the U.S.A. is five years ahead of the U.K.  There are now 100 million detectors installed in the U.S.A. Over half of these are over 5 years old and potentially no longer detecting CO.

In November 2007 the need to test CO alarms with an external source of calibrated test gas was recognised by one of the leading U.S. approval and testing authorities National Fire Protection Agent (NFPA) who approved a draft standard (NFPA720) which required that CO detectors should be tested with an external source of Carbon Monoxide on installation and annually

See our FAQ for more information.

Download the Detectagas Safety Data Sheet.

 

£14.95
USD: 22.36
EURO: 16.49