Best Smoke Detectors

HOW TO CHOOSE

Experts say you should consider the following when choosing among the best smoke detectors:

The best smoke detectors use a combination ionization/photoelectric sensor and is able to detect both flaming fires and slow, smoldering fires with equal speed and accuracy. If you choose not to use a dual-sensor model, you'll need both ionization and photoelectric smoke detectors installed in your home.

Only consider a smoke alarm that meets Underwriters Laboratory (UL) standards. UL is a safety certification organization that evaluates products and makes sure they comply with safety regulations.

Most smoke detectors -- but not all -- meet UL standards. The manufacturer will disclose either on the model's packaging or within its manual whether the unit meets the UL standards.

The best smoke detectors should have a test button to ensure that alarms and sensors are operating correctly. If you don't feel like climbing up on a chair or ladder to test the alarm, look for a smoke detector with a test button that can be activated with a television remote. Alarms should be tested on a monthly basis to ensure that the electronics and battery are functioning properly.

Make sure the smoke alarm has a hinged or removable cover for easy cleaning. Too much dust can cause a sensor to fail. Most smoke alarms can be vacuumed to prevent dust buildup.

Check that the smoke detector has a feature that allows you to silence false alarms. This can help avoid the temptation to disable the unit.

Smoke detectors have a lifespan of about seven to 10 years, and it's important to replace old detectors according to the model's recommendations. Smoke alarms that use nine-volt and AAA batteries should get fresh batteries at least once a year.

Experts suggest replacing the batteries when you change your clocks each year for the start of Daylight Saving Time. Other maintenance includes a monthly testing of the alarm and cleaning with a vacuum hose about once every month.

Experts recommend putting the best smoke detectors on each floor of your home and outside each bedroom, or inside the bedroom if you sleep with the door closed.

REVIEWS OF THE BEST SMOKE DETECTORS

Best all-around smoke detector = First Alert SA302CN

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 the 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 and can be found for $25.

Ionization smoke detector with 10-year battery = First Alert SA340CN

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 battery-powered detectors), but this smoke alarm has only an ionization sensor, and it's less effective at detecting smoky, smoldering fires. For $20, I think it's worth it just because of the 10 year battery.

Photoelectric smoke detector = First Alert SA710CN

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… flaming, fast-burning fires, it should be used in combination with an ionization detector. The extimated price is $17.

Interconnected dual-sensor smoke detector = Kidde PI2010 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… …has dual sensors, and it's good at sensing both flaming and smoky fires. This sells for around $35.

Best Prices were found at: Amazon.com

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