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Can a Hardwired Carbon Monoxide Detector be Replaced with a Battery Powered Detector  

Question:

I have a COSTAR® Model 12RV-DB CO Alarm that needs to be replaced. I know there is no replacement for this exact unit. So this leads to 2 questions. 1: do I need to replace that unit with another hard wired one or can I just stick with battery operated. And will that damage anything by not plugging another detector into the 12v plug. 2: do I need a specific rv co detector or can I purchase a home type detector and why an rv specific Thanks for your time on this matter

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Expert Reply:

You don't have to replace your hardwired Carbon Monoxide detector with another hardwired one, you certainly can use a battery powered one and as long as the 12V plug isn't exposed to places where it can become corroded you shouldn't be damaging anything.

The battery option that we have is # AT32703 from Atwood. I recommend going with it because it comes with an LCD display for easier operation.

In all honesty a lot of things that have the title "RV" in them don't mean that they can only be used in an RV. You can use a detector that is meant for a home if you choose to.

I have attached review videos for both detectors that you can check out.

expert reply by:
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Jon G

Richard J.

3/22/2020

I have a 12RV-DB carbon monoxide alarm that is circular and hard wired into the ceiling of my RV. Do you have a like item that I can replace this item. It Costar brand. It has 3 wires with an electrical connector 2 red wires and 1 yellow wire.

Etrailer Expert

Chris R.

3/23/2020

We don't have any circular detectors available, but I think the Atwood # AT36681 would work well as a replacement. It's not an identical design to your existing Costar 12RV-DB model (which is no longer made) but it does have two power wires like that unit so you can run one to a backup auxiliary battery. It detects both carbon monoxide and propane.

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