I Tested And Reviewed 8 Best Smoke And Carbon Monoxide Detector (2023)

The smoke/carbon monoxide detector is highly recommended for its excellent operation and easy installation. It comes with 2 AA batteries, which are included and easily replaceable. In my case, it was a simple upgrade for an existing smoke detector, as the new unit fit perfectly into the old mounting bracket. No additional holes were required, and the package included 2 screws and drywall anchors.

One of the standout features of this detector is its ability to announce the specific threat, so you know exactly why the alarm is sounding. Although I cannot personally vouch for its effectiveness in detecting smoke or carbon monoxide, I have had positive experiences with other Kidde products in the past. This gives me confidence in the reliability of this detector, especially considering the potential life-saving implications.

I was so impressed with this detector that I am considering purchasing another one for a different area of my house. While I cannot provide a comprehensive review based on fire or carbon monoxide incidents, I can attest to its ability to function well as a smoke alarm. Previously, my old smoke alarm would often go off unnecessarily, such as during showers or when cooking food that generated minimal smoke. This new detector has effectively resolved those issues.

One of the advantages of this detector is its voice alert feature, which warns of dangers such as fire or carbon monoxide emissions. Additionally, the use of 2 AA batteries provides convenience compared to the traditional 9-volt battery. The affordable price and ease of installation further enhance the overall value and peace of mind that this detector offers.

Having had a positive experience with another Kidde product in my home, I decided to replace my failing detectors with this model. Considering that I have a three-story home, it is essential to have multiple smoke/carbon monoxide detectors for optimal safety.

I recently had the opportunity to try out the Nest Smoke & Carbon Monoxide detectors and I must say, I am quite impressed. As someone who is slowly building a smart-house, I found these detectors to be a valuable addition to my home automation system.

First and foremost, I must commend the company's customer service. When I initially had a faulty unit, they responded quickly and replaced it at no cost. This level of support gave me confidence in the brand and prompted me to add two more detectors to different floors of my house.

One of the standout features of the Nest detectors is their ability to provide real-time notifications and alerts. In the unfortunate event of a fire, the detectors not only sound an alarm but also provide a voice alert, ensuring that everyone in the house is aware of the danger. This proved to be a lifesaver for me, as I recently experienced an electrical fire. The detectors alerted us promptly, allowing us to escape the building safely.

Another advantage of these detectors is their connectivity to the Nest app. This app allows you to control and monitor the detectors remotely, providing peace of mind even when you are away from home. Additionally, the app notifies you when the batteries are running low, eliminating the annoyance of chirping noises in the middle of the night.

The installation process was straightforward, thanks to the plug-and-play design. The detectors come with a long-lasting 9v battery, specifically designed for this type of application. This ensures that you won't have to constantly replace batteries, saving both time and money.

The detectors also come with some handy features, such as the ability to silence false alarms by simply waving at the detector. The pathway feature, which illuminates a blue ring when movement is sensed, is particularly useful for navigating the room at night. The brightness of the ring can be adjusted according to your preference. Additionally, the app records when the light was on and off, allowing you to track events and activities.

While the Nest detectors have many merits, there are a couple of downsides worth mentioning. One drawback is the inconvenience of changing network settings. Every time you need to change the Wi-Fi name or password, you have to manually factory reset each detector and set it up again. It would be more convenient if Nest could provide an option within the app to change these settings directly.

I purchased this smoke and CO detector a few years ago, primarily because I wanted a device that could detect both smoke and carbon monoxide. I was initially skeptical about its effectiveness, as I tend to question the reliability of emergency devices. However, my doubts were put to rest during a recent power outage that lasted almost a week during a dangerous heatwave.

To cope with the heat, we used a generator to power essential appliances such as refrigerators and freezers. We also plugged in a small window unit air conditioner. Unfortunately, we made a crucial mistake by placing the generator near an attic vent. In the early hours of the morning, around 4 am, my brother and I were abruptly awakened by a loud and unfamiliar noise – the Kidde detector was beeping incessantly.

Initially confused, we realized that the generator had been running without any issues throughout the week, and we had never experienced a CO alarm before. None of us exhibited any symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning either. We owned another CO detector, which remained silent. We decided to test the Kidde detector by taking it outside, where it stopped beeping. When we brought it back inside, the beeping resumed. It was clear that the detector was not defective.

Without hesitation, we called 911 and evacuated the rest of our family from the house. The firefighters arrived promptly and commended us for our quick response. Inside the house, the CO level had risen to 40 ppm, which is a dangerous level over time. However, in the attic, it reached a staggering 200 ppm. If we hadn't heeded the alarm, we could have lost our lives. The firefighters strongly advised us to go to the emergency room, even though none of us exhibited any symptoms. As soon as we arrived, the medical staff immediately provided oxygen to all five of us.

It is worth mentioning that the other CO detector we owned did eventually go off, but only after it was placed in a room with a window close to the generator. This experience has solidified my trust in the Kidde detector, prompting me to order another unit and consider purchasing more in the future.

Although some may argue that this particular model is 18 months old, I am hopeful that the battery will function properly upon installation. The device replaced a non-kitchen 9V version in my RV kitchen, and I appreciate the added benefit of CO2 backup monitoring. Additionally, I no longer have to worry about forgetting to check the battery for at least 8 months, as the detector is labeled with an expiration date of 2030.

It was a pleasant surprise to find that the Kidde detector came with a dust shower cap designed for new construction purposes. While I didn't need it, I found it to be a thoughtful addition.

I recently purchased two First Alert SCO500B smoke/CO alarms and I must say, I am impressed. After being dissatisfied with the First Alert ZCOMBO made for Ring, I decided to give this model a try, and it did not disappoint.

One of the standout features of this model is its ability to interconnect with other SCO500B units. This means that if there is an alert in one part of the house, all alarms will beep and provide a voice alert. This ensures that you are aware of any potential danger throughout your home. However, it is important to note that these units cannot connect to the Ring Alarm system, but for me, that wasn't a dealbreaker.

Setting up the SCO500B units was a breeze, and I had no issues selecting the voice location feature. So far, I have experienced no false alarms, and the units are working perfectly. I did come across some one-star reviews mentioning false alarms after a period of time, but I haven't encountered this issue yet. If I do experience false alarms in the future, I will update my review accordingly.

I have tested the interconnectivity of these units in different areas of my house, and the distance seems to be satisfactory. In fact, I am considering purchasing two more for other areas of my home.

One feature that I particularly appreciate about this design is that if the unit detects CO, the alarm goes off, and it also speaks the CO level, providing crucial information to gauge the severity of the situation. It is essential to take CO alarms seriously, as there are various potential reasons for CO presence in a house. Before assuming the units are defective, it is advisable to seek professional help or contact the fire department to check for any potential CO sources, such as cracks in furnaces or improperly vented gas appliances.

Contrary to a review I read, the alarm on these units is incredibly loud, and it would take significant hearing loss for someone not to hear it. In fact, it is recommended to wear ear protection when setting up and testing these alarms. Safety should always be a priority.

While the setup process may not be intuitive without the instructions, following the enclosed sheet made it easy and straightforward. Additionally, there are helpful setup instructions available in some reviews here on the product page.

If I ever decide to connect these alarms with my Ring Alarm system in the future, I will invest in a Ring Listener, which is specifically designed to be installed near an alarm and send alerts to the Ring alarm monitoring company. However, I have concerns about connecting my Ring Alarm with smoke/CO detectors due to potential false alarms resulting in fines and alarm license implications.

First Alert is a brand of detectors that offers several advantages over other brands. Firstly, their products are manufactured in Mexico, ensuring high-quality standards and reliable performance. Additionally, First Alert maintains a take-back hazardous waste disposal program specifically for ionization smoke alarms. This program demonstrates their commitment to responsible environmental practices and sets them apart from competitors like FireX/Kiddie.

One of the benefits of choosing First Alert is their comparable pricing to other brands. This means that customers can enjoy the same level of quality and safety without having to pay a premium. This affordability factor makes First Alert detectors accessible to a wider range of consumers.

While there is a minor inconvenience in replacing hardwire and interconnect pigtails when switching from a different brand of smoke detector, this can easily be overcome with the use of First Alert BRK ADF-12 adapter plugs. These adapter plugs simplify the installation process, making it quick and hassle-free. In fact, each alarm took less than 10 minutes to replace, and the instructions were straightforward.

A crucial point to consider when purchasing smoke detectors is the proper disposal of radioactive materials found in ionization smoke detectors. First Alert shines in this aspect, as they continue to maintain their take-back hazardous waste disposal program. This program ensures that the small amount of radioactive material in their detectors is disposed of safely and responsibly. Unfortunately, FireX/Kiddie discontinued their take-back disposal program, leaving consumers to rely on their local municipalities' disposal ordinances. This lack of responsibility from Kiddie raises concerns about the environmental impact and highlights First Alert's commitment to the future generation.

I recently had the need to replace my outdated hardwired smoke alarms and add a carbon monoxide (CO) detector to enhance the safety of my home. After much research, I decided to purchase the First Alert Smoke/CO detector.

One of the major reasons I chose this product was because it is a plug and play replacement that is compatible with my existing detectors. I wanted to gradually replace all my alarms, and this feature made the process much easier.

The installation process was a breeze. I started with the upstairs hallway outside the bedrooms, where I replaced the old detector with the new one. The new detector used the same plug as the old one, so I simply plugged it in and twisted it onto the mounting plate. I also appreciated that the new detector alerted all the other old detectors in the house when tested, ensuring comprehensive coverage.

The entire installation took me only five minutes. I even included a picture of the new detector alongside the old one to show the type of plug it uses, which was exactly the same. The fact that I could use the existing mounting plate also added convenience to the process.

In addition to its easy installation, I was also impressed with the compatibility of this detector with my older smoke-only system. As I had a 20-year-old First Alert smoke detector that needed replacing, I was glad that this new unit could seamlessly integrate with my existing system.

Setting up the new detector was a snap. I removed the old yellowed detector and its retention ring, replaced the ring, plugged in the hardwired system's dongle, and inserted the included 9V battery. Then, I twisted the new unit into the retention ring, completing the installation.

I performed a quick system test to ensure everything was functioning properly, and I was done. My family now has the added protection of both smoke and carbon monoxide detection, thanks to this reliable and user-friendly detector.

I highly recommend the First Alert Smoke/CO detector to anyone looking for a hassle-free installation, compatibility with existing systems, and top-notch safety features. If I could do it, so can you. Stay safe and protect your loved ones with this exceptional product.

I recently had to replace my old smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and after considering several factors, I decided to try the First Alert combination detectors. One of the main reasons for choosing these detectors was the brand recognition and trust that comes with First Alert. Additionally, the advertised 10-year battery life and a great discount during the holiday shopping season were also appealing.

The installation process was straightforward. I had to drill a new hole to align the backplate, but all the necessary accessories were provided. Once the unit was twisted onto the backplate, the battery was activated. I tested every single alarm successfully, although I haven't had a chance to test them with actual smoke or carbon monoxide. Nevertheless, I now have peace of mind knowing that I have reliable detectors in place.

What sets these detectors apart is their 10-year lifespan and their ability to detect carbon monoxide as well. Not having to change a battery for 10 years is a huge convenience, and when the detectors reach the end of their life, they will notify you. This feature is ingenious and eliminates the need to deal with the annoyance of changing a 9-volt battery or listening to a nerve-wracking beep. Additionally, the new laser smoke detection technology ensures that there won't be any false alarms from burnt toast, making these detectors even more reliable.

I was so impressed with these detectors that I purchased several for my senior parents and replaced their old ones. The old detectors, some of which were lying on the counter with the 9-volt batteries removed to stop the annoying beeping, were immediately thrown in the trash. The installation process was easy for anyone, thanks to the simple and clear instructions provided.

One notable feature of the First Alert PRC710 combination detector is its thinner side profile compared to other models and brands. This sleek design is a welcome improvement and makes the detector blend in better with its surroundings. To illustrate this, I have included a couple of pictures comparing the First Alert PRC710 with a Kiddie combination detector.

Lastly, I had to replace my previous smoke alarm because my new Ring listener couldn't recognize the tones emitted by the old alarm, which was over 10 years old. Fortunately, the First Alert detector had the same backplate and template, allowing me to reuse the same anchor holes. The instructions for installation were simple and straightforward, and the detector worked as expected right away. The Ring listener picked up both types of alerts immediately, providing me with added security.

I am writing this review to express my utmost gratitude for the Kidde smoke/CO alarm. This product, without a shadow of a doubt, saved my family's lives. After installing these alarms throughout our house, we never expected to face a life-threatening situation. However, last winter, a fire started under the floor and in the walls of our home while we were sleeping. Thanks to the Kidde alarm, my wife was alerted by the voice shouting "Fire" and was able to evacuate with our pets and call 9-1-1 in time. This product truly did what it was designed to do and saved us from a disastrous situation. We are forever loyal to Kidde and have purchased more alarms for our renovation.

One of the reasons I chose this particular alarm was because it is a battery-powered combo unit with voice detection. It replaced our old smoke alarm and provided us with the added safety of detecting carbon monoxide due to our propane fireplace. For the price of $20, this alarm is an excellent addition to any home.

The installation process was simple, and the alarm comes with all the necessary hardware and two new batteries. Unlike more expensive 9-volt units, this alarm takes 2 AA batteries, which are easier to remove and replace. The front-loading battery compartment makes it even more convenient. The alarm also has a hush feature, allowing you to silence it easily if accidentally set off. The large test/hush button is easy to push, and you don't have to hold it down like most alarms. This is particularly useful if the alarm is installed high on a ceiling or wall, as you can tap it with a broomstick or another object.

The voice function of this alarm is a great feature. When detecting smoke, the alarm emits three long beeps, followed by a pause and the voice saying "Fire!" It then beeps three more times and repeats the sequence. If carbon monoxide is detected, the alarm emits four short beeps, followed by the voice saying "Warning, Carbon Monoxide!" It then beeps four more times and repeats. In the case of a low or loose battery, the alarm emits a loud, short "chirp" once a minute, accompanied by the voice saying "Low Battery!" The voice prompt only repeats every 15 minutes, so it won't be too bothersome. The alarm also has a memory function for detecting previous CO levels, allowing you to check if there was a previous CO incident. The unit also features an End Of Life warning chirp, which can be silenced for a grace period of 3 days to a month. This gives you ample time to replace the alarm.