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Jackm · 10-01-2009, 02:17 AM

In the latest issue of Consumers Reports, they rated smoke detectors and CO monitors. As it turns out, unless you have a dual sensor smoke detector, you might not have the protection (from fire) that you think. In short, one sensor is good at detecting flash fires and the other is designed for detecting slow, smoldering fires. To detect both types, you need a smoke detector that has both sensors. Two examples (that have both detectors) include the First Alert model SA302CN or the Kidde model P19000. Makes you wonder why any manufacturer sells single-sensor models when they know that it will cost some people their lives.

Likewise, as it turns out, some CO monitors work better than others. In fact, some don't work well at all. One model they did recommend was the First Alert model CO615. Again, why sell a CO detector that doesn't really detect CO? Since some companies can sell models that work as intended, why can't the others? After all, it is a matter of life and death. As for me, I'm going to replace my detectors tomorrow. No point in burning up or suffocating to death in your sleep if you don't have to.

Jack

FLYTYER · 10-01-2009, 06:39 AM

JackM thanks for the info.

It would be important to check what units are installed in our RV's and swapping them out if they are not the better type.

Ed-Sommers · 10-01-2009, 09:27 AM

It is also not safe to trust Consumers Reports!

Ed

Paul R. Haller · 10-01-2009, 10:15 AM

Surprise, surprise that manufacturers are putting in the cheapest parts. The trailer and motorhome industry has been doing this for years. Chinese made tires that are out of compliance the moment they hit the road, axles too small, frames that break... the list is endless and you are surprised by a cheap smoke detector?

Vote with your purchase and drive the cheaper manufacturers out of the market place. Sadly though, most have no idea that their trailer is overloaded from the factory until its too late and the axles fold up going 60 MPH. Ha, smoke detectors are easy to replace. Try installing new axles, springs, wheels, brakes and tires that quite frankly are far more likely to fail while in use. The manufacturers don't give a dam about safety they only look at their own bottom line. If they weren't mandated you wouldn't even have smoke detectors or co detectors
-Paul R. Haller-

hamguy · 10-01-2009, 10:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ed-Sommers

It is also not safe to trust Consumers Reports!

Ed

100% agree.

Jackm · 10-02-2009, 03:24 AM

At some point in life, you have go with the best source of information that is out there. If you chose to distrust Consumers Reports, then you have to decide where else to go in order to make rational decisions about important products (like detectors). In this case, my choice is to either trust the manufacturers who are motivated by profit and shareholder returns or a non-profit consumer organization. If you are aware of another source of reliable information regarding detector performance and reliability, I'm all ears. Until then, I'll use what I can to make life safer for my family, even if it isn't perfect.

Jack