Being caught in a house fire is extremely frightening and can have deadly consequences. However, when you have a fully functioning smoke detector installed in your home, you and your family will be protected day or night.
Protect Your Family with a Smoke Detector
A smoke detector, such as a fire extinguisher, is an essential fire emergency safety tool. It saves lives, minimizes property damage, and alerts neighbors to a fire hazard.
Fire experts state that it is primarily the toxic smoke that causes fatalities in a house fire, not burns. So while we may not like the shrieking noise this small device makes, it will make all the difference in a life or death situation.
The 7 Best Smoke Detectors
- First Alert Smoke Detector, Photoelectric & Ionized Alarm
- Kidde Fire Sentry Smoke Detector
- Kidde 21007624 Photoelectric Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector
- DASINKO Smoke Detector Fire Alarm
- Google Nest Smoke Detector and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (Our Top Pick)
- SITERWELL Smoke Detector 4-pack
- X-Sense Smoke Detector 3-pack
Our Top Pick for the Best Smoke Detector
Our top pick for the best smoke detector is the Google Nest Smoke Detector and Carbon Monoxide Alarm.
Detecting slow and fast-burning fires as well as gas leaks, this 3-in-1 detector has many other great features as well.
Its multifunctional app will notify you of problems even when you are not home, protecting your house and family no matter where you are. Offering options of either battery-operated or hard-wired, you cannot go wrong by relying on the Google Nest to keep your home safe.
Check the price on AmazonWhere Should you Place a Smoke Detector?
Designed with high-tech sensors, a smoke detector is specifically tuned to detect the slightest whiff of toxic smoke, which means the unit must be installed in strategic positions around your home.
You need to install the detector on the ceiling or wall in the lounge room, bedroom, near the kitchen, in the attic, basement, and even in the garage.
How to Choose the Best Smoke Detector
There are plenty of smoke detectors available, but it can be difficult to know which is the right one for your home. The following buying guide will provide you with the necessary information you need to find the best smoke detector to suit your needs.
Types of Smoke Detectors
Smoke detectors come in two main types: hard-wired units and battery-operated detectors.
– Hard-wired Smoke Detector
Hard-wired smoke detectors need to be connected to your home’s AC electrical system. These types of detectors usually require professional installation to make sure that they are installed properly. A hard-wired smoke detector is extremely reliable but it may not work during a power outage.
Some hard-wired smoke detectors may come with a backup battery such as the Kidde 21007624. If you have an old house, you may have to check its wiring before installing a hard-wired smoke detector.
– Battery-operated Smoke Detector
Battery-operated smoke detectors are quick and easy to install and there is no need to worry about hard-wiring the unit. These types of detectors either come with 2 AA batteries, a 9-volt alkaline battery that lasts up to 1-year, or a long-lasting 9-volt battery that lasts up to 10 years.
The problem associated with battery smoke detectors is that the unit can start making chirping sounds if the battery is running out of power, which can be very annoying in the middle of the night. A smoke detector that has a low battery flashing LED light will help to eliminate this problem.
Smoke Detecting System
A smoke detector system will be designed either with an ionization sensor, a photoelectric sensor, or a dual-sensor.
– Ionization Sensors
An ionization smoke detector is specifically designed to respond to fast flaming fires that do not produce much visible smoke. This detector can be placed anywhere around your home but can cause nuisance alarms in the kitchen or bathroom from burnt toast or steam. Most detectors have a silence button that you can use to stop the alarm.
– Photoelectric Sensors
Photoelectric smoke detectors are more sensitive and effective than ionization detectors as they detect slow, smoldering fires, which are the most dangerous types of house fires.
Another reason why photoelectric detectors are so popular is that they can detect smoke from any direction. To make sure that your detector continues to work properly, make sure that the cover is cleaned regularly from dust or cobwebs that can trigger the alarm.
– Dual Sensor System
Smoke detectors that have a dual ionization and photoelectric sensor system such as the First Alert Smoke Detector, Photoelectric & Ionized Alarm deliver superior smoke protection. These smart alarms detect both fast flaming fires and slow, smoldering fires, so you will have total peace of mind.
As these types of alarms have extremely sensitive sensors, they should not be installed too close to a kitchen or bathroom. If you prefer to have a detector near the kitchen or bathroom, make sure that you close the door while you cook or use the shower.
Carbon Monoxide Smoke Detector
A smoke detector may also detect dangerous carbon monoxide (CO) fumes, which is very important for homes with a central gas heating system or a gas stove. You may not smell the carbon monoxide but the detector will sense the fumes super fast.
Smart Device Smoke Detector
If you love your high-tech digital devices, consider the Google Nest Protect Smoke Detector. This incredibly smart device detects both smoke and carbon monoxide gas and sends a warning alert to your smartphone or tablet.
This device does require a strong wifi signal to function properly. Also, you will need more than one unit to experience complete smoke-safety coverage around your home.
Additional Safety Features
– Smoke Warning Alarm and Lights
A smoke detector will have a loud alarm and red or green flashing LED lights as part of its fire or carbon monoxide warning system.
– Test button
The test button should be used after you have installed the unit and then every 6 months to make sure the detector is working properly.
– Silence Button
The silence or hush button is very useful when the alarm goes off if you accidentally burn the toast. The test button may also function as a silence button on some units.
– Interconnected Smoke Detectors
Some detectors can be connected so that if one detects smoke, the others will too. This is especially ideal if you have a large home.
7 Best Smoke Detectors – Reviews
1. First Alert Smoke Detector, Photoelectric & Ionized Alarm
Using state-of-the-art dual-sensing technology, the First Alert Smoke Detector, Photoelectric & Ionized Alarm will give you total peace of mind.
Equipped with photoelectric and ionization sensors, the First Alert smoke detector quickly detects fast burning and slow smoldering fires. Exclusive Optipath 360° technology allows the unit to detect smoke from any direction.
Perfect for residential and commercial applications, the detector has a dust cover to keep it clean. It complies with safety regulations and meets building codes where AC/DC photoelectric and ionization combination smoke alarms are required.
The smoke detector has to be hardwired into your home’s electrical system but the Quick Connect harness makes installation easy. First Alert also includes 2 AA batteries in case there is a power outage. Replacing the batteries is simple as the unit has an easy-access battery drawer.
Designed with standard and advanced features, the detector offers you an intensive fire warning system. Standard features include a hush button that silences the 85-decibel alarm and can be used to test the alarm function.
Advanced features include an alarm detecting mode and a silent mode that silences the alarm for several minutes. A low battery mode alerts you with a blinking green light. The low battery mode can also silence the low battery chirping noise for up to 8 hours.
The smoke detector is available in a 1-pack, 3-pack, 6-pack, or 12-pack.
FIRST ALERT offers a 10-year limited warranty on the smoke detector.
Pros
- High quality
- Excellent value for money
- Very affordable price
- Perfect for residential buildings and institutional applications
- Complies with UL217, CSFM, NFPA 72, HUD, FHA regulations
- Meets building codes where AC/DC photoelectric and ionization combination smoke alarms are required
- Dual photoelectric and ionization sensors provide comprehensive fire detection for both fast-burning and smoldering fires
- Efficient Optipath 360° patented technology
- Hardwired installation plus 2 AA batteries
- Smart alarm detecting and silencing modes
- Low battery flashing green light
- Hush button can be used as a test button
- Quick Connect wiring harness
- Easy-access battery drawer
- Available in a 1-pack, 3-pack, 6-pack, or 12-pack
- 10-year limited warranty
Cons
- Unit may need to be reset if chirping starts with a new battery
- Batteries do not last very long
2. Kidde Fire Sentry Smoke Detector
The Kidde Fire Sentry Smoke Detector is an efficient early warning signal against the dangers of fire and smoke.
The Fire Sentry is a battery-operated UL-listed smoke detector that utilizes ionization sensing technology that is specially designed to detect fast flaming fires. As well as the loud 85-decibel alarm, the detector makes a chirping sound when the battery is low.
Featuring a basic design, the i9040 is very easy to install and there is no hard-wiring required. All the mounting hardware is included and a helpful installation guide. The detector comes with a 9-volt (10-year) battery that delivers continuous protection even during power outages.
With a compact 4-inch wide diameter, the i9040 is ideal for discreet placement in a small room or an RV.
The detector also has a test button that you can use to check the unit’s electronic circuitry, horn, and battery function, and silence the alarm.
Kidde strongly recommends that you install both ionization and photoelectric smoke alarms to ensure maximum detection of fast and slow smoldering fires.
Kidde offers a 3-year limited warranty on the smoke detector.
Pros
- High quality
- Good value for money
- Extremely affordable price
- Compact discreet design is ideal for a small room or in an RV
- Ionization sensor is specially designed for fast flaming fires
- UL-listed
- Easy installation
- Mounting hardware and installation guide
- Loud 85-decibel alarm
- Test button for the unit’s electronic circuitry, horn and battery function
- Low battery alert
- Long-lasting 9V (10-year) battery is included
- Three-year limited warranty
Cons
- Some report that the included batteries were not fresh out of the box
- Not ideal for slow, smoldering fires
3. Kidde 21007624 Photoelectric Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector
Offering you 2 protective features in 1 device, the Kidde 21007624 Photoelectric Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector is a choice for your home and a perfect match for the Kidde i9040.
This unique smoke detector uses an efficient photoelectric smoke sensor, an accurate CO electrochemical sensor, and a voice-warning system. This triple-detecting system is the perfect way to alert you to any dangerous fire-related or gas hazards fast!
As well as sounding an 85-decibel alarm and flashing red or green LED lights for smoke or gas, the 21007624 clearly states whether fire or carbon monoxide is present. All of these warnings continue until the smoke or CO is eliminated.
Although the detector is to be hardwired, it also comes with a 9-volt battery for continuous protection during a power outage. The uniquely designed front-loading battery compartment makes battery replacement easy and ensures proper installation. If the battery runs low, the unit will chirp, produce a flashing red LED light, and a verbal warning of “LOW BATTERY.”
Other handy operational features include a Hush Mode for nuisance alarms, a test button, and a silent 12-hour mode for low battery chirps.
For complete fire protection in a large house, this smoke detector can be interconnected with up to 24 other devices (18 of which can be initiating), including smoke, CO, and heat alarms.
Kidde offers a 10-year limited warranty on the smoke detector.
Pros
- High quality
- Excellent value for money
- Affordable price
- Two protective features in one device
- Efficient photoelectric smoke sensor
- Accurate CO electrochemical sensor
- A unique voice-warming system for smoke and CO gas
- Loud 85-decibel alarm
- Red and green LED flashing lights for smoke or CO gas
- Easy hard-wired installation
- 9-volt battery for use during power outages
- Low battery warning system
- Hush mode
- Test button
- Silent mode for low battery chirp up to 12 hours
- Interconnectable with up to 24 other devices (18 of which can be initiating) including smoke, CO, and heat alarms
- 10-year warranty
Cons
- Battery may not be fresh out of the box
- A build-up of dust, cobwebs, and faulty writing can cause intermittent chirping
- May not be ideal for old houses
4. DASINKO Smoke Detector Fire Alarm
For real-time fire prevention, the DASINKO Smoke Detector Fire Alarm will keep your family, home, or business 100% safe.
Made from strong ABS heat and high-temperature-resistant, non-radioactive material, the DASINKO smoke detector is ideal for home use and commercial applications.
Highly sensitive and responsive, the UL-listed smoke detector utilizes optimized photoelectric technology that is specially designed to detect slow smoldering fires.
Once you place multiple detectors in strategic positions around your home, near the kitchen, bedrooms, living room, or in the garage, the DASINKO will detect smoke and respond with lightning speed. A red LED light will flash and a loud and clear 85-decibel alarm can be heard. The detector also has a test button that can be used to silence the alarm.
For fast and easy installation, the smoke detector does not need to be hard-wired. It comes with a mounting bracket, screws, and anchor plugs. When the 9-volt (10-year) battery needs to be replaced, the detector will chirp and flash a low battery light.
The smoke detector comes in a handy 2-pack.
DASINKO offers a 3-year warranty on the smoke detector.
Pros
- High quality
- Great value for money
- Very affordable price
- Ideal for residential and commercial buildings
- Strong ABS material is heat and high-temperature resistant
- Does not contain any radioactive material
- Highly sensitive and responsive
- Optimized photoelectric technology is designed to detect slow smoldering fires
- Red flashing LED light
- Loud and clear 85-decibel alarm
- Low battery alert system
- Test button
- Easy installation
- No hard-wiring required
- Comes with a mounting bracket, screws and anchor plugs
- 9-volt battery lasts up to 10 years
- Comes in a 2-pack
- Three-year warranty
Cons
- Can start beeping in high humidity conditions
- Short warranty
5. Google Nest Smoke Detector and Carbon Monoxide Alarm
The Google Nest Smoke Detector and Carbon Monoxide Alarm offers you a high-tech approach to smoke and gas detecting protection.
Designed in the US, the upgraded 2nd-generation Nest Protect provides dual protection from toxic smoke and poisonous carbon monoxide gas.
You and your family will have complete peace of mind from these hazards as the Nest has a super-smart split-spectrum sensor that is very efficient at detecting fast and slow-burning fires. Using a state-of-the-art voice-warning system, Nest will speak up and tell you if there is smoke or gas and where these hazards are lurking inside your home.
You can stay alert to any fire-related home emergencies from anywhere as the Nest smoke detector has Wifi connectivity and its app can be downloaded straight to your IOS or Android device.
The multifunctional app will tell you where the hazard is, it provides low battery alerts, tests the smoke detector, and even has a handy room thermostat monitoring feature. If the detector sounds its loud 85-decibel alarm when you burn your toast, you can silence the alarm straight from your digital device.
This incredibly versatile device has a motion sensor neon lighting strip that works as a handy night light. If you purchase multiple Nest detectors, they can be integrated into a comprehensive safety system.
The Nest comes with a mounting bracket and is available in 2 models. You can choose from a battery-operated model with 6 long-life batteries that last up to 10 years or a 120-volt hard-wired detector.
Google Nest offers a 2-year limited warranty on the smoke detector.
Pros
- High quality
- Very good value for money
- Designed in the US
- Upgraded design
- Dual smoke and gas protection
- Split spectrum sensor detects slow and fast-burning fires and poisonous carbon monoxide gas
- Smart device wifi connectivity
- Loud 85-decibel alarm
- State-of-the-art voice-warning system
- Easy set-up instructions on the app
- App can be downloaded to an IOS or Android device
- Low battery alerts
- Device testing function
- Handy room thermostat monitoring feature
- Alarm silencing feature
- Motion sensor neon night light
- Can be integrated with other Nest devices
- Available with batteries or as a hard-wired model
- Comes with a mounting bracket
- Two-year limited warranty
Cons
- Expensive
- Effectiveness will depend on wifi signal
- Can give false alarms
- Need more than one unit to take advantage of all the features
- Warranty is not very long
6. SITERWELL Smoke Detector 4-pack
The SITERWELL Smoke Detector 4-pack is an excellent fire warning system for a large home.
Instead of having to buy individual smoke detectors, SITERWELL provides all the detectors you need to keep your home safe from fire and smoke.
Featuring highly sensitive photoelectric technology, these UL-listed smoke detectors are very effective at detecting slow smoldering fires. When smoke is detected, a red LED light flashes and an 85-decibel horn sends a loud and clear warning up to 3 meters. To silence the alarm, just press the test button.
Durable and safe to use, the detector is constructed from eco-friendly fire-retardant ABS plastic. You can install the 4 alarms in strategic places around your home; near the kitchen, in the lounge room, near the bedroom, or in the basement.
There is no hard-wiring required as the smoke detectors come with a 9-volt battery that lasts up to 1-year. Easy to attach to the ceiling or wall, the smoke alarm comes with a bracket and screws. A safety clip allows you to replace the battery without dismounting the alarm. The unit also has a low battery alarm.
SITERWELL offers a 10-year warranty on the smoke alarm 4-pack, and the smoke detectors are also available in a 1, 2, 3, and 6-pack.
Pros
- High quality
- Very good value for money
- Very affordable price
- Ideal for a large home
- Highly sensitive photoelectric technology detects slow smoldering fires
- UL-listed
- Red flashing LED light
- Loud 85-decibel horn that sends a clear warning
- Durable eco-friendly fire-retardant ABS plastic
- Does not contain any radioactive material
- Test button
- Low battery alarm
- Easy to install
- No hard-wiring required
- Comes with a bracket and screws
- 9-volt battery is included
- Safety battery clip
- 10-year warranty
Cons
- Battery only lasts for 1-year
7. X-Sense Smoke Detector 3-pack
The X-Sense Smoke Detector 3-pack is a very good choice for any home.
Perfect for multiple strategic placements around your home, you can install these detectors in the loungeroom, outside the kitchen, in the attic, or basement.
Featuring optimized photoelectric technology, the UL-listed smoke detectors will quickly detect slow smoldering fires. There is no need to worry about hard-wiring the units as the built-in lithium battery lasts up to 10 years.
The detectors provide 360° monitoring and when smoke is detected, the detector flashes a red LED light and the 85-decibel alarm provides a loud and clear warning, so you and your family can flee to safety. To turn the alarm off, just press the test/silence button.
Easy to install on the ceiling or a wall, the detectors come with screws and a bracket or you can use magnetic pads for the bracket. To ensure that the smoke alarms are in working condition, the alarms perform an automatic self-check every 60 seconds. A low battery signal also lets you know when it is time to install a fresh battery. The detectors are made from fire-resistant, corrosion-resistant ABS material and an insect-proof screen prevents insects and dust from entering the devices.
X-Sense offers a 5-year warranty on the smoke detector 3-pack, and you can also choose a 1–pack, a 5–pack, and a 10-pack.
Pros
- High quality
- Great value for money
- Optimized photoelectric technology quickly detects slow smoldering fires
- UL-listed
- 360° monitoring
- Red flashing LED light
- Loud and clear 85-decibel alarm
- No hard-wiring required
- Easy to install on the ceiling or wall
- Screws and bracket are included
- Built-in lithium battery lasts up to 10-years
- Automatic self-check every 60 seconds
- Low battery signal
- Fire-resistant, corrosion-resistant ABS material
- Insect-proof and dust-proof screen
- Available in a 1–pack, a 5–pack, and a 10-pack
- 10-year warranty
Cons
- Pricey
- Mounting plate does not line up very well with the screws
Our Top Pick for the Best Smoke Detector
Our top pick for the best smoke detector is the Google Nest Smoke Detector and Carbon Monoxide Alarm.
Detecting slow and fast-burning fires as well as gas leaks, this 3-in-1 detector has many other great features as well.
Its multifunctional app will notify you of problems even when you are not home, protecting your house and family no matter where you are. Offering options of either battery-operated or hard-wired, you cannot go wrong by relying on the Google Nest to keep your home safe.
Check the price on Amazon
