Best Smoke Detector Reviews 2020

This range of safety home safety devices aren’t expensive. You can get a cheap smoke alarm for just under $10, though keep in mind that they can be more sensitive to steam from your stove or shower, resulting in false alarms. To give a rough idea, basic battery powered smoke alarms are the least expensive of the bunch, followed by hardwired devices that hook up to your home’s electrical system, multifunctional alarms that double down the protection with just one device and cutting edge smart smoke detectors that deliver alerts via a dedicated app.

Since these devices are fitted for one single reason (to alert the presence of smoke in the house), we highly recommend that you buy a smoke alarm that provides optimal protection around the clock. Given that most of these devices only need to be replaced every 10 years, it’s truly a small price to pay for the peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

With so many different types of smoke alarms to choose from, buying the right one is no easy task. Not only do you have to choose between the types of devices available, you also have to choose from the many sensors that power them.

If you’re in the market for a new smoke alarm, or replacing one that’s about to retire, here are a few features to consider:

• Type of smoke alarm – common options include battery operated, hardwired, multi-functional and smart
• Type of detection (sensors) – it is important to purchase a smoke alarm that can detect both types of fires – ones that flare and others that smolder. Modern smoke alarms are fitted with one of three sensors namely ionization, photoelectric, and dual.
• Low battery alerts - when investing in a battery powered smoke alarm, it’s helpful to know when batterie to be replenished (generally every 6 months or so).
• Alarm sound – most common sound is a piercing and persistent beeping noise, but there are also high end models that have pre-recorded voice commands in addition to the alarm
• Battery backup – if purchasing a hardwire smoke, check for models that have battery backup in case of electrical power failure.
• Hush button – silences false alarms
• Hearing impaired – an alarm that’s ultra loud or fitted with strobe lights
• Combination smoke alarms – if you live in a home with fuel burning appliances like a water heater, furnace, cooktop, range or grill, consider buying a CO and smoke alarm combo
• Temperature range – most smoke alarms are suitable for use between 40°F to 100°F

First thing to consider when buying a smoke alarm is power source. Hardwired smoke alarms generally require professional installation, and connect each smoke alarms in the house. They’re a great choice for large homes or homes with secluded areas where the smoke alarm may not be audible. These will make the alarm sound throughout the home regardless of where the fire occurs. Battery powered smoke alarms do not rely on electrical power and can be installed easily. Batteries usually last 6 months and up to 1 year with lithium ion batteries.

When it comes to types of smoke alarms for the home, there are 3 choices. Ionization smoke alarms contain a very small amount of radioactive material that reacts to certain particles of a fire and sound the alarm accordingly. Due to their high level of sensitivity, this range of smoke alarms should be installed away from your kitchen or bathroom, and work best when fitted in landings, stairwells and offices.

Photoelectric alarms consist of a photocell and light beam that shines away from the cell. These are best suited for common types of house fires such as smoky and smoldering fires. They have to be cleaned occasionally, since coming in contact with dust and insects can cause false alarms. Dual sensor smoke alarms are a combination of sensors, so they’re a good option for most areas in your home.

There’s an option to purchase both a smoke alarm and CO sensor, but these only contain one type of sensor (ionization or photoelectric), which is less protection. Before installing a smoke alarm, it’s important to test the battery, which is generally done by pressing a dedicated test button or by shining a torch on the device.

Most high end smoke alarms come with pre-installed non-removable 10-year lithium ion batteries so you won’t need to change the battery every year. However, it’s always a good practice to check on them periodically to ensure they’re in good working order. There are special products available for the hearing impaired such as alarms fitted with strobe lights and ultra loud alarms. There are also smart smoke alarms that send notifications to your cell phone in the event the alarm goes off.