Smoke Detectors Reviews

Best Reviews use multiple samples, simulate home situations

There are several different types of smoke detectors, and some are better at detecting certain kinds of fires than others. Smoke alarms detect fires using either ionization or photoelectric sensors. Ionization sensors are best at detecting fast, flaming fires -- such as those fueled by paper or flammable liquids -- and are common in kitchens. In contrast, photoelectric sensors respond best to smoky, smoldering fires, which develop slowly and often involve bedding, clothing or upholstery. For the best protection, experts recommend buying a smoke detector with both types of sensors. Some states, such as Massachusetts and Iowa, have passed regulations that require both types of smoke detector sensors in newly constructed homes.

In researching the best smoke detectors available on the market, we found a handful of professional reviews that recommend specific products. Overall, experts choose models with both types of sensors as their top picks. The best of these professional reviews comes from Australia-based Choice magazine, and New Zealand's Consumer magazine., Both are similar to ConsumerReports.org, and both use detailed testing methods in determining the best smoke detectors. Each tests more than a dozen smoke detectors by setting both flaming and smoldering fires. The smoke detectors are mounted in a hallway test environment, and fires are started in an adjacent room. Models are rated based on their performance in various conditions.

ConsumerReports.org recommends a selection of smoke detectors. Though helpful, the review gives few details about each of these detectors. Bestcovery.com appliances expert Mariette Mifflin recommends five picks and provides detailed descriptions about each smoke detector. But Mifflin doesn't explain how she selected her picks or reveal what other models were tested. We also found user reviews from Amazon.com to be extremely helpful in determining how a smoke detector performs with long-term use. Owners are in a position to document the annoying habits of smoke detectors, such as 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 issue because owners might be tempted to remove or disable the alarms. The BRK Brands 9120B Hardwired Smoke Alarm with Battery Backup (*Est. $12) has upset many owners, who say they object to its spontaneous shrieking. This hardwired alarm is connected to others throughout the home, and when one goes off, they all do. In some cases, the false alarms persist after the backup battery is replaced, users complain. In addition to marketing smoke detectors under its own name, BRK is also the manufacturer of First Alert smoke alarms.