US Patent 8016205 Thermostat with replaceable carbon monoxide sensor module

A thermostat is provided that includes a peripheral edge that, at least in part, defines an opening in the thermostat. The thermostat further includes a carbon monoxide sensor capable of sensing the presence of carbon monoxide gas in the ambient air near the thermostat, and providing a measurable output value that is indicative of the level of carbon monoxide gas. The thermostat also includes a replaceable battery that applies a voltage to the carbon monoxide sensor. The thermostat further includes a microprocessor disposed on a circuit board. The circuit board, sensor and battery are together disposed on or in the thermostat. The circuit board is configured to establish an electrical connection with the carbon monoxide sensor and the battery. The microprocessor is configured to periodically read the carbon monoxide sensor output, and to activate an audible alarm in a continuous manner to indicate an emergency upon detecting a carbon monoxide level that exceeds a predetermined value.