Smoke Detectors: Reviews

In reviews, experts consistently point to the First Alert SA302CN dual-sensor as the best smoke detector. It runs on a replaceable nine-volt battery and features a combination ionization and photoelectric sensor that is… expandthe most accurate and effective detection method available, according to tests. The First Alert SA302CN smoke alarm has features that many detectors do not offer, such as remote-controlled alarm testing and silencing as well as a sensor that differentiates emergencies from nonthreatening conditions (e.g. smoke from cooking or tobacco). This model has a 10-year warranty. One downside is that some owners say you can accidentally trigger the test function with your TV's remote control, and it may take some trial and error to get the right placement. collapse

The First Alert SA340CN features a tamper-proof design and a 10-year, nonreplaceable lithium battery, which spares you from changing a battery each year (as with the dual-sensor First Alert SA302CN and most other… expand…battery-powered detectors), but this smoke alarm has only an ionization sensor, and it's less effective at detecting smoky, smoldering fires. That makes it a fine choice if you want a detector with a very long battery life, but because it lacks a dual sensor, it is best used in tandem with a photoelectric detector such as the First Alert SA710CN (*Est. $17). The cost of a second detector can eat up the savings from not having to replace the batteries in this unit. collapse

The First Alert SA710CN photoelectric smoke detector is better at detecting smoky or smoldering fires than the First Alert SA340CN ionization smoke alarm. Because photoelectric technology is not good at detecting… expandflaming, fast-burning fires, it should be used in combination with an ionization detector. This unit also requires yearly battery replacement and, like other First Alert smoke detectors, has a limited 10-year warranty. collapse

In many states, new homes are required to have hardwired smoke detectors. With alarms placed at each floor in this arrangement, every unit will sound its alert when one detects smoke or fire. The hardwired Kidde PI2010… expand…has dual sensors, and it's good at sensing both flaming and smoky fires. There's also a battery backup in case your home loses power (though some users say that replacing the battery is a chore). Because this is a hardwired model, you might need an electrician to do the installation unless you're a skilled do-it-yourselfer. collapse