Introduction

Best reviews use multiple samples, simulate home situations

Consumer magazine, a New Zealand product-review publication similar to Consumer Reports, has the most credible smoke detector review we were able to find. Editors evaluate 21 smoke detectors, testing three of each model for speed and accuracy in both high-flaming fires (the kind often fueled by paper or flammable liquids) and smoky fires (often involving slow-smoldering bedding, clothing and upholstery). The smoke detectors are mounted in a mock hallway test environment, and fires are started in an adjacent room. Other sources don't test as many models as Consumer magazine, and some don't recommend specific smoke detector models at all.

In an informative article, ConsumerReports.org identifies a selection of the best dual-sensor and hard-wired smoke detectors. Editors identify pros and cons of each, providing informed suggestions on the best buys in each category. One plus is that this article is available at ConsumerReports.org to non-subscribers. We also found helpful user reviews at Amazon.com. Owners are in a unique position to document the annoying habits of smoke detectors, such as like late-night false alarms, annoying chirps or poor battery life.

Although false alarms are an occasional problem with most smoke detectors, a few models appear to be especially susceptible -- an important flaw that can tempt owners to remove or disable the alarms. The BRK Brands 9120B Hardwire Smoke Alarm with Battery Backup (*Est. $12) has left many owners traumatized by its spontaneous shrieking. This hardwired alarm is connected to others throughout the home, so when one goes off, they all do. The false alarms might be related to fluctuations in the home's power supply, and they often persist even after the backup battery is replaced. In addition to marketing smoke detectors under its own name, BRK is also the manufacturer of First Alert smoke alarms.