Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors

There are many home monitoring devices and detectors, such as water leak sensors, that can alert you to problems around your home, but detectors that can warn you about fire and hazardous gases are perhaps the most essential for all homes and businesses.

While smoke detectors have been used to call attention to fire danger in homes for over half a century, their capabilities have improved. And carbon monoxide alarms are slightly newer but no less crucial. Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible and odorless gas that can be released due to malfunctions in heating sources, such as furnaces or generators. CO gas can easily reach fatal levels undetected. That's why installing carbon monoxide detectors in your home should be a top priority. Both of these life-saving devices should be installed in bedrooms and other locations throughout your home and replaced every 10 years. The batteries should be changed on a regular schedule even if the device is hardwired. And you should also test the detectors for proper functioning once a month.

Whether you’re replacing existing detectors or installing one for the first time, you have options. For smoke detection, there are two technologies available: photoelectric and ionization. Each of these performs best at detecting distinctly different kinds of fires. So, it is good to have both kinds represented in your home. You can also choose a single-function unit or a combination smoke and carbon monoxide detector. Additionally, the innovations in smart home products extend beyond smart thermostats and smart home security devices and systems. Smart smoke and CO detectors can be connected to your home's smart system as well. That way, you will get alerts on your phone even if you’re out of the house.

While you can run your detectors on batteries, it is preferable to hardwire (though you should always install backup batteries in case of power outages). The best carbon monoxide detectors and best smoke detectors for your home will be the ones that fit within your budget while offering the widest and most consistent coverage throughout your home.