Hardwired Smoke And Carbon Monoxide Detector With Battery Backup

Our Pick: First Alert Sa511cn2

For your primary line of defense, we recommend the First Alert SA511CN2-3ST Interconnected Wireless Smoke Alarm with Voice Location. This is a photoelectric alarm, so its effective against both slow-burning, smoldering fires and fast-burning, flaming fires. Its sold in a two-pack, and the two units link together through a wireless signaland can combine with additional unitsso that they all sound at once. In addition, you can preset each unit to a location so that when an alarm goes off, all of the units indicate which room the fire is in. The alarm is a voice alarm, which research indicates is more effective in waking small children than a simple tone. The First Alert SA511CN2-3ST is the only alarm we found that combines the voice alarm, the location feature, and the wireless connection all in one unitat a price thats merely on the high side of average for the category.

Because theyre interconnected, the SA511CN2-3ST alarms not only give you an early warning but also tell you where the problem is originating from. During initial setup, you assign each alarm a room location. When the alarms go off, they all announce the source alarms location. As training coordinator and fire safety educator Tom Kiurski told us, Vocal smoke alarms are recommended if you have children between 4 and 12 years of age, because studies show they respond better to a familiar voice, as opposed to something that can fall under white noise.2

Connect To Other Alarms For Greater Coverage

This hardwired combination smoke and carbon monoxide detector can be connected to other compatible BRK or First Alert CO smoke detectors within a single-family residence. Once one alarm is triggered, all connected CO smoke alarms will sound. The latching alarm indicator on the CO smoke alarm automatically identifies which unit initiated the alarm–even after the conditions that set off the alarm have subsided.

Easy To Install And Maintain

The First Alert Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm integrates with existing wiring and features a universal mounting bracket that makes installing the unit quick and easy. The side-load battery compartment makes changing the 9-volt battery simple. Tamper-resistant locking pins prevent unauthorized disabling of the CO smoke alarm.

Works With…

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Kidde Firex Hardwire Smoke And Carbon Monoxide Combination Detector 2 Pack

Courtesy of Home Depot

• Detects smoke and carbon monoxide

• Interconnected system

• Battery backup for power outages

• Works with other Kidde bases

• May need professional installation

Having a hardwired smoke detector helps it integrate with other sensors to create a comprehensive home safety system. The Kidde FireX hardwired detector can sniff out both smoke and carbon monoxide, adding to the protection power. It does have a 9V battery backup in case the power goes out, a necessary safety precaution. When one alarm in the system detects smoke or carbon monoxide, they all sound. This helps alert you to dangers even if you are in a different room or floor of your home. It uses a voice alarm to tell you if it detects smoke or CO.

Installation of hardwired detectors can be a bit more complicated, but Kidde systems use compatible bases. If you are replacing another Kidde product, you can likely use the same location to hardwire this detector and eliminate the need to touch up walls or paint. If you are installing a hardwired system for the first time, you will likely need to get the help of an electrician to run wires safely. This adds to the already high cost of these detectors. Buying in packs of two or more can save some money.

Price at time of publish: $50

Power Source: Hardwired with 9V battery backupSensor Type: PhotoelectricPack Size: 1 or 2

An Important Note On Fire Safety

Working smoke alarms are essential in any home, but you should treat them as just one piece of a comprehensive fire-safety plan. Your plan should include other safety items such as fire extinguishers and escape ladders, but most importantly, you should base your plan on an awareness of what to do in case of a fire. Firehouse Magazines Timothy Sendelbach told us, The best advice I can offer is to practice fire drills, using the test button on the alarm, to familiarize family members with the sound and recommended actions to be taken upon activation. For more information, we recommend the NFPAs page on how to make a home fire escape plan.

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Where To Buy First Alert Products

First Alert products can be purchased at the retailers below.

First Alert has been protecting homes and families since 1958

First Alert began in 1958, when three friends set out to create a commercial smoke alarm. In the six decades since, we have continued to create innovative products, from the first residential smoke alarm to the first battery operated carbon monoxide alarm. By leading the fire safety category through reliability, quality and innovation, we follow in the footsteps of our founders and make the world a safer place – one home, one family, one life at a time.

Products

Also Great: First Alert Sco501cn

Carbon monoxide is a deadly, odorless, colorless gas that can spread through a home as the result of a malfunctioning or improperly installed chimney or combustion appliance such as a gas stove, a gas boiler, a water heater, a propane range, or a wood stove, according to the Environmental Protection Agency and other sources. If you dont already have CO alarms, we strongly recommend including a few First Alert SCO501CN-3ST Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm with Voice Location units in your interconnected system.

This model offers the same features as our main pick and adds a carbon monoxide sensor. That CO detector adds a good bit to the pricecurrently a single SCO501CN-3ST unit is just barely cheaper than the two-pack of our top pickso we made this model a separate recommendation in case youre already covered with a stand-alone CO detector.

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Flaws But Not Dealbreakers

The main downside of the SA511CN2-3ST is that this wireless unit is available only with photoelectric sensorsnone of First Alerts ionization alarms have wireless connectivity. For maximum protection against both slow-burning, smoldering fires and fast-burning, flaming fires, your home needs both types of sensor, and the best-case scenario is that theyre all linked to the same system. But that isnt possible with First Alert alarms.

Another drawback of the SA511CN2-3ST is that it isnt particularly attractive. It looks like, well, a smoke alarm. First Alert has other models with a thiner look , but to get the wireless connectivity, the photoelectric sensor, and the voice and location alerts in a single unit, your only option is the model were recommending. The good news is that once smoke alarms are installed, everyone stops noticing them.

The 8 Best Smoke Detectors Of 2022

The First Alert Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm is our top pick

Larry Campbell is an electrical contractor with 36 years of experience in residential and light commercial electrical wiring. He worked as an electronic technician and later an engineer for the IBM Corp. is a member of The Spruce Home Improvement Review Board.

We independently research, test, review, and recommend the bestproductslearn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

The Spruce / Chloe Jeong

Simply put, a smoke detector can save your life.

We researched and tested some of the top smoke detectors available online, evaluating safety features, battery life, and ease of installation. Home inspector Dave Mitchell, who has seen many incorrectly installed detectors, recommends having a professional take care of even simple installs if you are unsure.

Our top pick, the First Alert Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm, detects smoke and carbon monoxide , uses a voice alert system, and is easy to set up.

Here are the best smoke detectors.

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Also Great: First Alert Sa303cn3 Battery Powered Smoke Alarm

*At the time of publishing, the price was $8.

To have the most complete fire-detection system, we recommend adding a First Alert SA303CN3 Battery Powered Smoke Alarm to each floor. This model is an ionization alarm, so its designed to be better than our other picks at detecting a fast, flaming fire. Its not as good as the others at detecting smoky fires, however, so we dont recommend it as a primary alarm. According to our research, ionization alarms are also prone to nuisance alarms, particularly from shower steam or cooking smoke, so make sure to place them accordingly.

Architectural And Engineering Specifications

Installation of Smoke Alarm

The combination alarm should be installed to comply with all local codes

having jurisdiction in your area, Article 760 of the National Electric Code,

and NFPA 72. Make certain all alarms are wired to a single, continuous

power line, which is not protected by a ground fault

interrupter. A maximum of 1000 ft. of wire can be used in the interconnect

system. Use standard UL listed household wire (18 gauge or larger

as required by local codes).

Leading authorities recommend that both ionization and photoelectric smoke alarms be installed to help ensure maximum detection of the various types of fires that can occur within the home. Ionization sensing alarms may detect invisible fire particles sooner than photoelectric alarms. Photoelectric sensing alarms may detect visible fire particles sooner than ionization alarms. The i12010SCO contains a 10-year tamper proof backup battery that eliminates the need for battery replacement, and ends worry over unauthorized battery removal. The alarm provides continuous protection from smoke, fire and carbon monoxide, even during power outages. At the end of alarm life, the unit will chirp, indicating the alarm is in need of replacement. The end of life chirp can be temporarily silenced, allowing for replacement at a more convenient time.

Part Number : 21010408-N

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First Alert Brk 9120lbl Hardwired Smoke Detector With Battery Backup

• Hardwired to work with a system

• Battery backup power

• Needs professional installation

Smoke alarms use either photoelectric sensors to detect fast-burning fires or ionization sensors to detect smoldering fires. While most prioritize one method over the other, the First Alert BRK 3120B detector uses both to provide comprehensive safety detection. It is hardwired but has a 9V battery backup to provide power if there is an outage. Unless you are already using a hardwired smoke detector in your home, you will likely need to get professional installation for this unit.

This detector is a bit more expensive than other smoke-only detectors. But given its reliable detection of every type of fire that could threaten you or your home, it is well worth the cost. However, it does not detect carbon monoxide, so you will need to purchase a separate detection unit if needed.

Price at time of publish: $58

Power Source: Hardwired, with 9V battery backupSensor Type: Photoelectric, ionizationPack Size: 1 or 6

Know Your State And Local Laws

Its important to understand your state and local smoke alarm regulations before making a purchase. We found that many regulations are at odds with one anotherand with our recommendations. No company sells a one-size-fits-all smoke alarm capable of satisfying the requirements of every state.

For example, our main recommendation, the First Alert SA511CN2-3ST Interconnected Wireless Smoke Alarm with Voice Location, uses two AA batteries, but many states now require models with 10-year sealed batteries. We have a recommendation to meet that requirement, as well.

First Alerts site has a nice interactive map that can help you get started on understanding your states requirements. We also recommend contacting your local fire department for more information specific to your area.

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Kidde Code One Smoke Detector

Home Depot

• Does not detect CO

All you need to operate this convenient smoke detector is one 9V batteryrather than worrying about multiple batteries, just open the door to pop in one battery and attach it to the wall. This smoke detector is very simple, without any extra bells and whistles, such as voice alerts or CO detection. But it does a great job at its only job: detecting smoke and alerting you to get to safety.

Installation is very easy, especially if you are replacing another Kidde unit, and it comes with one 9V battery to get you started. You will need to change it out periodicallymost emergency response units recommend every six months. There is a corresponding CO detector that uses a similar setup and also uses a 9V battery for power. Fortunately, this unit is so affordable that you can purchase both this detector and the Kidde Code One CO detector for less than a pricier combo unit.

Price at time of publish: $11

Power Source: 9V battery Sensor Type: IonizationPack Size: 1

Best Smoke And Carbon Monoxide Detectors Of 2022

Consumer Reports’ lab tests reveal the best detectors for protecting you and your loved ones

When you shop through retailer links on our site, we may earn affiliate commissions. 100% of the fees we collect are used to support our nonprofit mission.Learn more.

Most smoke and carbon monoxide detectors look the same, so you might think that they basically are the same. As long as theyve been certified by a testing organization, such as UL or Intertek Electrical Testing Labs , they should work just fine, right? Not exactly.

We need to test detectors because some fail at CO detection, and there are differences in how quickly different models respond to CO, says Bernie Deitrick, Consumer Reports test engineer for smoke and CO detectors. I have never tested a model that failed our fire and smoke tests, and it is reassuring to know that such critical devices actually work.

A detectors ability to sense carbon monoxide can mean the difference between life and death. According to the CDC, every year more than 400 Americans die from accidental CO poisoning, and about 50,000 Americans end up in the emergency department.

To determine the type you need, remove the detectors in your home from their mounts. If there are wires connected to them that run into the wall or ceiling, you need hardwired detectors. If there are no wires, you need battery-powered detectors.

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What Is The Best Hardwired Smoke Detector With 10

If you’re a buyer, then this post is for you. Many factors determine what the best hardwired smoke detector with 10-year battery is worth the price, and we’ll cover them all in this blog.

From quality to customer service, there’s a lot to take into consideration before purchasing an item. Read on to find out if it’s worth your money or not!

What does it mean to get a good deal on a product? Is the item worth the price? The best hardwired smoke detector with 10-year battery are those that provide you with quality and value.

Quality means that an item will last for years while providing you with excellent service. Value means that the product is worth what it costs.

You should ask yourself these questions before buying a product: “What do I need this for?” “How often am I going to use this thing?” “Do I know of any comparable alternatives?”.

If you buy something without asking these questions, chances are high you wasted your money on something unneeded or overpriced!

1. The best hardwired smoke detector with 10-year battery have the best quality

What is the best hardwired smoke detector with 10-year battery to buy? There are many opinions and options. One of the most important things to consider when deciding on a purchase is quality.

This part will explore some of the different types of quality in products and how they affect your decision-making process.

2. The best hardwired smoke detector with 10-year battery provide good policies

2.1. Warranty policy

2.2. Return policy

Why Trust The Spruce

This article was researched and written by Katie Begley, a freelance writer specializing in home and family products. Katie has been writing for The Spruce since 2019. When researching top smoke detectors, she considered superior performance, multiple sensors, and installation. Katie also consulted with home inspector Dave Mitchell to see what he recommends for installation and required placement.

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First Alert Brk Sc9120lbl Hardwired Smoke And Carbon Monoxide Detector With 10 Year Sealed Battery Backup White

• Alarm + Detector with Adapter Plugs

• Make sure this fitsby entering your model number.
• Keep your family safer with this hardwired smoke and carbon monoxide alarm The 10 year battery backup means constant monitoring for the life of the alarm even if there’s a power failure, Single button test/silence
• Features an electrochemical Carbon Monoxide sensing technology as well as intelligent smoke sensing technology to reduce nuisance alarms Keyhole slots in the mounting bracket eliminate the need to remove the electrical box screws for installation
• Indicator lights on the face of the unit display the presence of smoke or carbon monoxide, while an 85 decibel siren provides a clear, loud warning upon detection
• Simple to use, with a single test/silence button Included 10 year lithium battery features a locked drawer to prevent tampering
• 10-year limited warranty Equipped with end-of-life signal chirp, so you know when itâs time to replace the unit for safety
• Rigorously tested to meet UL standards, Emits T3 pattern
• Faster turnarounds on job sites with the easy-to-install, most-trusted alarms in home safety
• First Alert has been the most trusted brand in home safety since launching the first residential smoke alarm in 1958

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