Carbon monoxide (CO) is often called the "silent killer"—odourless, colourless, and tasteless, it can infiltrate homes and workplaces unnoticed, causing severe illness or even death. In the UK, especially in regions like Scotland where heating systems run for months on end, reliable CO detection is non-negotiable. But not all detectors are created equal. Two benchmarks stand out as guarantees of safety: the British Kitemark and the European standard EN 50291-1. This blog breaks down what these certifications mean, why they’re critical for your safety, and how to choose a detector that meets the highest standards—including a standout option from Wisualarm. Understanding Carbon Monoxide: The Invisible Threat Before diving into certifications, it’s essential to grasp why CO detection is so vital....

In the UK, carbon monoxide (CO) remains one of the most dangerous invisible hazards in homes—responsible for an estimated 60 deaths and over 200 hospitalisations each year, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). Unlike smoke or gas leaks, CO has no smell, colour, or taste, making it impossible to detect without a dedicated device. For UK homeowners, renters, and landlords, understanding the legal obligations, safety standards, and best practices for carbon monoxide detectors is not just a matter of protection—it’s often a legal requirement. 1. UK Legal Requirements: Who Must Install a CO Detector? The UK government has strict regulations governing carbon monoxide detectors, enforced by bodies like local councils and Trading Standards. These rules vary slightly based...

Not all detectors fit UK homes. Focus on these UK-specific features: UK safety standards: It must meet BS EN 50291 (the British-adopted EU standard) and have a Kitemark – the gold standard for UK safety. This ensures it detects CO at 30ppm (the safe threshold) within 90 minutes. °C temperature display (with backlight): UK homes use Celsius, so avoid detectors that only show °F. A backlit screen lets you check temp at night – crucial for bedrooms. Battery-powered (with long life): Hardwired models need electricians (costly for renters). Look for AA/AAA battery-powered options that last 2+ years – and include low-battery beeps (no more waking up to a dead detector). Compact for small UK rooms: Terraced houses and flats often...

That intermittent chirping from your carbon monoxide (CO) alarm can be both annoying and anxiety-inducing. However, it’s a critical warning system designed to protect your household from invisible danger. While many assume it’s just a low battery, the reality is that chirping can indicate several issues—some routine, some urgent. In this guide, we’ll dive deeper into the technical and practical reasons behind these alerts, how to diagnose them, and why maintaining your CO detector is non-negotiable for home safety. The Critical Difference: Chirping vs. Emergency Alarm First, recognize the two distinct signals your CO detector emits: The Emergency Alarm:Four loud, consecutive beeps, repeating every five seconds. This means carbon monoxide has been detected at dangerous levels. Evacuate immediately and contact emergency...