Carbon monoxide is invisible, odourless, and deadly. Every van build, overland rig, and off-grid setup running a diesel heater, gas hob, or combustion appliance needs a CO alarm — full stop.
The Kidde 7CO is the alarm we'd fit in our own rigs. It uses an electrochemical sensor rated for a full 10-year working life, so you're not replacing it every few years or guessing when it's stopped working. When the 10 years are up, it tells you with an end-of-life chirp. The 10-year warranty backs the claim.
Why it works for van life and overlanding:
Certified to BS EN 50291-2 — the standard specifically for campervans, motorhomes, and boats, not just domestic settings
Battery powered (2 × AA alkaline, included) — no 240V required, works entirely off-grid
Wall-mount or freestanding — fits whatever your interior layout demands
85dB alarm triggers at 50ppm, giving you time to act
Alarm memory flashes if CO was detected while you were away from the vehicle
LED status indicators: green (operating), amber (fault/end-of-life), red (alarm)
Test/Reset button for weekly checks
Specifications:
Sensor type: Electrochemical, 10-year operational life
Power: 2 × AA alkaline batteries (included)
Alarm level: 85dB at 3 metres
Trigger level: 50ppm CO
Certifications: BS EN 50291-1:2018 (domestic) and BS EN 50291-2 (boats and caravans)
Dimensions: 119 × 72 × 39mm
Operating temperature: 0°C to 40°C
Warranty: 10 years
Fits the bill for any build running a diesel heater, propane or butane cooking, or a generator. Small enough to mount anywhere, reliable enough to trust.