Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a dangerous gas that can accumulate and lead to death when concentration levels become dangerously high. CO detectors and alarms are widely used in homes, offices and businesses to detect the presence of this deadly gas. However, a handheld portable CO meter is a great tool to use when suspecting a possible CO leakage source or pathway and can be used to quickly locate, sniff out and confirm a potential CO leaking issue.

Co meter an electrochemical sensor to sense CO concentration and provide an analog output signal. This type of sensor is popular because it provides an accurate and linear output to CO concentration, requires minimal power, has a long lifetime that averages five years to ten years, and can be easily replaced.

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Most CO meters feature a battery powered LED indicator system to show operational status and test/reset buttons. When a unit is on, it will display a current instantaneous reading of the CO ppm level and a lighted LED will flash for confirmation. To test or reset a unit, consult the User Guide for exact instructions, but typically: press the Peak Level button and hold it down while pressing and releasing the Test/Reset button simultaneously. If the unit is functioning properly, there will be 4 quick beeps and the meter will return to monitoring for CO.

Industrial hygienists, home inspectors and HVAC professionals are frequent purchasers of CO meters to help them determine the source and location of a carbon monoxide leakage problem. In addition, many recreational users of propane or butane power tools and campers purchase a CO meter to ensure their safety when using gasoline powered equipment in confined spaces.