DiversiTech Becomes Exclusive North American Seller of CO/PRO Shutoff Switch

DiversiTech Corp. is now the exclusive North American distributor of the Respiro USA CO/PRO, a carbon monoxide shutoff switch for fuel-burning furnaces and water heaters, under a new agreement with Respiro. The company, based in Duluth, Georgia, announced the deal in a press release reported by ACHR News on Nov. 9.

The device cuts power to the connected appliance when it detects elevated carbon monoxide (CO), a colorless, odorless gas produced when fuel burns. Stopping the equipment halts further production of the gas, according to the release.

How the CO/PRO works

CO/PRO uses two independent sensors. One monitors the HVAC supply duct, and the other monitors the air around the appliance and its venting system. If either detects elevated CO, the unit interrupts power to the furnace or water heater, the press release said. The release did not give the CO level at which the switch trips.

DiversiTech contrasts the device with traditional CO alarms, which warn occupants after the gas has already spread through a home. According to the release, CO/PRO is meant to prevent exposure before CO can move into living space.

What the companies said

Aaron Engel, vice president of business development at DiversiTech, said CO/PRO takes a proactive approach that complements existing alarm and detection systems. Mike Koch, CEO and co-founder of Respiro, said being alerted to a problem and preventing it from escalating are “two very different outcomes.”

Koch said the switch was designed to stop CO production at the source. He said the partnership gives HVACR distributors and contractors convenient access to the technology.

Why it matters for homeowners

The product is sold through professional HVACR distribution channels, so it reaches homes through heating contractors rather than retail shelves. DiversiTech describes it as an addition to its indoor air quality and safety lineup. Homes with a gas, oil or other fuel-burning furnace or water heater are the ones the device is designed for.

The companies position CO/PRO as a complement to CO alarms, not a replacement. The release did not state a price, an installation requirement, or any certification or testing results, and independent performance data was not part of the announcement.

Source: ACHR News