A smoke detector is a disc-shaped device that senses smoke and produces a warning alarm. It is a useful addition to a commercial or home fire-control panel. The two popular types of smoke detectors are photoelectric and ionization. These devices are usually battery-powered gadgets that often use 9V or two or three AA batteries. The market has many smoke detector brands that offer advanced features as well as reliable products. You should choose the right brand after considering the sensor technology, warranty, battery power, and ease of installation.
Best Smoke Detector Brands
Google, S3000BWES, Nest Protect Smoke
The reviews of Google Nest Protect Smoke are good because of its fast detection with the split-spectrum sensor. The google nest uses Alexa voice control technology and also allows you to ask Alexa to silence your alarm or to check the battery. This google nest detector has three alarm settings: low, medium, and high level. The Nest Protect Smoke Alarm and Carbon Monoxide Detector have a three-level battery indicator, which alerts you when it’s time to replace the battery.
Power Source: Battery Powered
Sensor Type: Split Spectrum Sensor
Features:
- Motion detection
- Safety Features
- Easy to install
- Good Battery life
- Co Locator
First Alert 9120B Smoke Detector
First Alert 9120B Smoke Detector with a 1-2 minute count-down provides four times the warning time of other smoke alarms. This alarm features a loud 105-dB alarm, photoelectric and sound sensing technologies, and battery backup. The First Alert 9120B’s also comes with a battery backup that offers constant monitoring even when there is a power failure. It has tamper-resistant locking brackets as well as universal mounting brackets that make it easy to install.
Power Source: Battery Powered
Sensor Type: Ionization
Features:
- One Test Silence Button
- Hardwired Smoke Alarm
- An 85 Decibel Alarm
- Good Battery life
- Side Load Battery Compartment
X-Sense Escape Light Smoke Detector Alarm
The X-sense SD01 Smoke Detector with Escape Light is the most advanced model in the X-sense series, offering wireless Z-Wave connectivity, a battery-powered alarm as well as voice evacuation alerts. Its advanced photoelectric sensor detects dangerous smoke levels. This model has a 1,500 mAh lithium battery that provides 10 years of continuous power. It also comes with a 3-color flashing LED indicator.
Power Source: Battery Powered
Sensor Type: Photoelectric
Features:
- Accurate, Reliable, Sensitive
- Auto check functions
- An 85 Decibel Alarm
- 10-year battery smoke alarm
- Most advanced sensor
Universal 1204 Wire-In Smoke Alarm
The reviews of Universal 1204 Wire-In Smoke Alarm are good because it is an easy-to-install alarm that provides protection from fires. You can ensure the safety of your home, your family, as well as your belongings. It comes in a simple design that makes it easy to install. The smoke detector comes in a pack of 4, which makes it cost-effective. This model is made of high-quality material that also offers extended durability.
Power Source: Battery Powered
Sensor Type: Ionization
Features:
- Battery Backup
- Easy to install
- Value for money
- Most advanced sensor
Alert Pro 10 Year Battery Smoke Detector Fire Alarm
Alert Pro Battery Smoke Detector Fire Alarm comes with a photoelectric sensor, which reacts to smoke particles as well as eliminates false alarms. The detectors are easy to install, with mounting hardware included. It comes with a low power consumption. It is an ergonomic alarm without smell or radiation. This model has sealed-in 10-year lithium battery.
Power Source: Battery Powered
Sensor Type: Photoelectric
Features:
- Environment Friendly
- Low Power Consumption
- Service Life Sensor About 10 Years
- Ergonomic
- Hassle-free installation
How to Choose the Best Smoke Detector Brands?
Sensor Technology
Smoke detectors use different sensor technology to sense smoke as well as flaming fires. Photoelectric and ionization are popular sensor technologies. Some brands produce detectors based on photoelectric technology. Such models use light to detect smoke particles. Ionization detectors use ionizing radiation for detecting flaming fire.
Installation
The smoke detectors are generally easy to use and set up. Many brands offer mounting brackets, anchor plugs, and expansion screws in the pack for simple installation. They make compact detectors that have a small diameter and require no additional hardwiring. Look for brands that provide installation guides as well as technical help.
Warranty
Most smoke detector brands offer 5 to 10 years of warranty. The average life span of a smoke detector is 8 to 10 years. Some brands give you additional 2 years of warranty, while others back your purchase with free lifetime technical support. You should go with brands that have a good reputation for building durable as well as high-quality products.
Back up Power
The battery-powered smoke detectors are convenient as well as easy to set up. Hardwired models require power cables and wires for installation. Such models also require a backup source for smooth functioning, in case of any power outage. They use a battery for backup power. Some wireless models are equipped with a 10-year battery that eliminates the need for frequent battery replacement.
Smoke Detector FAQs
Should Smoke Detector be on Wall or Ceiling?
A smoke detector device should be placed on a flat ceiling. This is because the smoke rises up and then spreads in the room. The smoke detector will detect smoke particles faster when placed in a central location of the room.
You can also place it on the wall, but make sure you place it at a significant height. The distance between the detector and the heating source or cooking appliance should be at least 8 to 10 feet. Read our blog to know everything about smoke detectors.
What are the Types of Smoke Detector?
Smoke detectors are available in three major types; photoelectric, ionization, and dual-sensor. Light particles can cause fire alarms. The light scatters when smoke enters the detector chamber. The photoelectric models are good for detecting smoldering fires.
Ionization smoke detectors have a continuous flow of ions between the two electrically charged plates. The flow breaks when the smoke enters the chamber. This activates smoke detectors and triggers the fire alarm. Ionization smoke detectors are more sensitive to flaming fires.
The dual sensor models equip photoelectric as well as ionization sensors. They are best to detect flaming fires and smoldering fires. These devices will give an alarm for all fire-related problems. Dual sensor smoke detectors are the most advanced devices that help you prevent fire hazards.
Conclusion
A smoke detector is a smart device that keeps your space protected from fire hazards. You can install this device in your kitchen or living room with ease. Some models have home automation compatibilities to offer you better convenience.
We suggest you go with brands that provide a higher warranty period. Smoke detectors usually come with a 10-year warranty. Read our blog to know why smoke detectors only last for ten years.
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