Accuracy is a key element in an effective carbon monoxide alarm. Below is a chart showing how different carbon monoxide sensor technologies compare in various conditions.

Experts recommend electrochemical CO alarm sensors for the highest level of protection and accuracy.

	FUEL CELL ELECTROCHEMICAL	METAL OXIDE	GEL CELL	ELECTROCHEMICAL
Long-term stability	Excellent	Poor	Fair	Good
Life	7 Years	10 Years	3-5 Years	3-5 Years
Selectivity	Excellent	Fair	Good	Excellent
Humidity independent	Excellent	Poor	Poor (unknown with Cap)	Poor at extremes
Temperature dependency to 0F	None	Required	Some	Some
Power required	Low - DC	High - AC only	Low - DC	Low - DC
Cost	Low	Average	Average	High
Digital Display	Yes	Yes	No	Yes