Best Smoke Detectors

Single-sensor detectors are inexpensive, best used in combinations

The cheapest smoke detectors are ionization models, such as the Kidde Basic 0914 (*Est. $6) and First Alert SA303CN3 (*Est. $12). In testing, inexpensive ionization alarms such as these do a good job of sensing high-flaming fires, but perform poorly on smoky fires. While an ionization smoke detector may be a fine choice for a supplementary alarm, perhaps in a localized area where flaming fires are more likely (such as areas where flammable liquids are stored), experts say you should also install a photoelectric smoke alarm.

A photoelectric smoke detector is better at detecting smoky or smoldering fires than an ionization unit. Since photoelectric technology is not good at detecting fast-burning fires, it should be used in combination with an ionization detector. Basic battery-operated photoelectric smoke detectors such as the Kidde PE9 (*Est. $16) and First Alert SA710CN (*Est. $17) cost a little more than ionization smoke detectors. The First Alert SA710CN receives good marks in professional testing and from most of the dozen or so owners posting reviews at Amazon.com. Most report fewer false alarms than with other smoke detectors they have tried. This First Alert smoke alarm's nine-volt battery requires annual replacement but, like other First Alert smoke detectors, the unit comes with a 10-year warranty.

While most smoke detectors need their batteries changed at least yearly, the First Alert SA340CN (*Est. $22) features a permanent lithium battery, which the manufacturer claims will last 10 years. The First Alert SA340CN smoke alarm features only an ionization sensor, however, and is therefore likely to be less effective in the event of a smoky fire.

Best dual-sensor smoke alarms

An even better choice is a dual-detection smoke alarm, which features both photoelectric and ionization technology, with the added bonus of often costing less than buying separate smoke detectors.

With this in mind, reviewers say the First Alert SA302CN (*Est. $23), a battery-operated smoke alarm equipped with both ionization and photoelectric sensors, is the safest and most accurate smoke detector you can buy. This First Alert smoke detector includes a test function and 85-decibel alarm, a 10-year warranty, and some other consumer-friendly features. The First Alert SA302CN's nine-volt battery needs to be replaced at least annually. Public-service campaigns have popularized the idea of changing your smoke detector batteries when you change your clocks each spring for daylight savings.

In owner reviews, the First Alert SA302CN is rated highly overall, but users report some annoyances. This First Alert dual-sensor smoke detector includes a unique test function -- rather than climbing on a chair or ladder to test this smoke alarm, you can activate the test feature with any standard television remote control. While this is certainly handy, users report some unintended side effects -- including the accidental triggering of the test alarm when watching television. For that reason, it may take some experimentation to find the right placement for this unit. The same remote test feature also acts as a remote mute -- if the alarm goes off accidentally, the user can silence it with the television remote control.

Another well-reviewed dual-sensor smoke detector is the battery-operated Kidde PI9000 (*Est. $23). Recommended by both experts and consumers, the Kidde PI9000 smoke alarm is described as being easy to install and emitting few false alarms. When false alarms do occur, they can be quieted by pressing a button on the face of the smoke detector. The Kidde PI9000 also has a test button, a 10-year limited warranty, and installation of the nine-volt battery is reportedly simple. There are a few reports of defective units, however.

Hardwired smoke detectors for newer homes

In many states, hardwired, interconnected smoke detectors are now mandatory in new homes. With interconnected detectors on each floor, all smoke alarms will sound when any one unit detects fire or smoke, making connected alarms a good solution for larger homes. Most hardwired smoke detector are also equipped with battery backup to provide protection in the event of a power failure. Kidde, First Alert/BRK and other companies offer hardwired detectors of various types, but we didn't see these models tested in reviews.

The Kidde PI2000 (*Est. $40) hardwired dual-sensor smoke detector with nine-volt battery backup receives a very good score from more than 30 reviewers on Amazon.com, and it is a top choice among experts. Owners say this hardwired model is relatively easy to install, although a few people posting reviews delegate the job to an electrician or -- in one case -- to the local fire department. False alarms are rare. Many of the negative reviews caution that units purchased in 2007 were manufactured in 2004, but this problem appears to have been resolved.

If you or someone in your home is hearing impaired, and your home is equipped with wiring for interconnected smoke alarms, experts recommend adding a visual alerter such as the First Alert Hearing Impaired Smart Strobe Light SL177 (*Est. $80). This peripheral works in conjunction with hardwired First Alert smoke (or carbon monoxide) detectors and will illuminate its strobe to provide a visual warning when the smoke or CO detectors it's connected to sound their alarms

Professionally installed systems

Other smoke detector options include professionally installed systems, such as those offered by MasterGuard and Triad Safety Systems, companies that market fire safety equipment only through private salespeople and distributors. Although most experts agree the products marketed by these companies are as effective as other smoke detectors, there are numerous complaints regarding the sales practices of these companies, both online and with the Better Business Bureau.

Triad and MasterGuard specialize in integrated, professionally installed and maintained systems for the whole home. While some homeowners swear by the quality of the high-priced equipment these companies offer, other customers and experts claim that the products are overpriced and the sales tactics are unethical, such as a high-pressure approach and the use of gifts/prizes as incentives. If you choose to have one of these companies install equipment in your home, check your local distributor's record with the Better Business Bureau in your area.

Many national security companies, such as Brinks and ADT, also offer fire alarms. Because these are generally included as part of a security system package and are not available to independent consumers, they are not specifically covered in this report. They remain, however, an option for fire safety, especially if you get them free or at low cost with your home security system. Just be sure to check the literature to ascertain whether you're getting ionic, photoelectric or dual-sensor equipment.