Who are the Best Manufacturers of Smoke Detectors?

Typically on this blog, we focus on fire alarm system monitoring. As manufacturers of fire alarm system monitoring equipment, we usually tend to concern ourselves with the more central aspects of a commercial fire protection system. Until now, this has caused us to neglect the humble smoke detector.

Notification devices and initiation devices are the very first line of defense against fires. There is a reason why, per NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) guidelines, all buildings must contain battery powered smoke detectors. This even extends to those that lack elaborate fire protection systems.

Single-family homes are required to have a certain number of functioning smoke detectors with battery backups. This alone should impart the invaluable role that these devices play in practicing everyday fire safety.

Here, we will try our best to recommend you the top smoke detector manufacturers. Before we begin, it is worth mentioning that smoke detectors are not the only types of sensors that prevent fires. An ideal protection system includes smoke detectors, heat detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire detectors.

For the sake of clarity, this list is going to mainly concentrate on consumer-grade smoke detectors and their manufacturers. Being manufacturers of fire protection products, we are familiar with many companies in the industry, if not some of their products. Therefore, while we will mention certain noteworthy models, this article will focus more on the manufacturer than the specific model.

First Alert

First Alert is a fire product brand initially owned by BRK Brands. Established in 1958, First Alert sells smoke detectors, in addition to carbon monoxide detectors, flashlights, and fire escape ladders. Our research indicates that several First Alert smoke detectors are popular choices with customers and critics alike.

We would especially like to highlight the First Alert SA511CN2-3ST. This model has received praise not only for its quality, but also its affordability and ability to communicate with other First Alert products.

This model, a member of the First Alert Wireless Interconnect collection, is a wireless smoke alarm that operates on AA batteries. It is currently sold in packs of two. When multiple are installed throughout the home, they can each be assigned a room. There are currently 12 programmable room choices.

Then, using a mesh network, they can work together to identify where the fire started, and inform residents throughout the home. Other First Alert products, such as their carbon monoxide detectors, can be included in this network. The First Alert SA511CN2-3ST uses voice alerts to communicate with residents and provide information about the fire status.

This model's ability to operate in terms of rooms gives it a certain Prism-like quality, something we have to applaud.

In addition to the SA511CN2-3ST, the First Alert PRC710v combination smoke and carbon monoxide detector is also a favorite. Of course, both of these models are UL-listed.

Kidde

Kidde has been manufacturing fire detection and suppression technology since their earliest patented fire extinguishers in 1917. They have gone on to become a household name in regards to smoke detection technology all around the world. The Kidde AC Hardwired, Kidde PI2010, and Kidde PI9010 have all been applauded by popular technology publications.

The Kidde i12010SCO AC Hardwired Smoke Alarm in particular is notable for its combination of smoke and carbon monoxide detection. This hardwired ionization smoke detector is somewhat pricey, but certainly reliable.

Per NFPA regulations, the i12010SCO comes with a battery backup. The battery used in this model is a sealed lithium battery. In addition to this, it is a 10-year battery. This eliminates the need for frequent replacement, along with any worry of unauthorized removal or tampering.

Kidde also offers dual sensor smoke and carbon monoxide alarms with smart features. These smart smoke detectors do cost considerably more than typical smoke detectors, but offer a wide range of exciting features.

Like most smart home technology, these alarms are compatible with an easy-to-use phone app. Your phone can remotely test your alarms, get status updates and, receive remote alerts in case of emergency. When one alarm is activated, not only are the others, but your phone app is as well. These smart alarms also use other smart devices like Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa to respond to voice commands.

X-Sense

X-Sense is another reputable smoke detector manufacturer. Like First Alert and Kidde, they also produce a wide variety of smoke, carbon monoxide, and combination detectors for household use.

The XS01-WR and XS03-WX Wi-Fi smoke alarms have both received critical acclaim for their innovative approach towards home fire safety.

The XS01-WR Wireless Interconnected Smoke Alarm is similar to the First Alert SA511CN2-3ST detector. However, the XS01 can actually connect with up to 23 other similar devices, all under one roof. For larger homes, this provides an unprecedented amount of fire protection coverage. This wireless, easy to install alarm uses replaceable lithium batteries that last for 5 years at a time.

The XS03-WX is favored for similar reasons to the Kidde smart alarms. Its Wi-Fi capabilities allow you to receive real-time notifications, view alerts, and dismiss false alarms right from your phone screen.

Like Kidde, X-Sense offers proprietary companion apps, 'X-Sense Home Security' and 'X-Sense Security.' These apps connect Wi-Fi enabled detectors to your phone and home smart devices.

X-Sense also boasts excellent customer support. The purchase of any X-Sense detector includes "lifetime technical support, a 5-year warranty, and a 60-day money-back guarantee."

Google Nest

If the name hasn't already given this away, this last member of our smoke detector manufacturer list is a little different than the others. As one of the biggest technology companies in the world, Google has tried their hand at many different industries, oftentimes with resounding success. Their foray into fire protection technology has been marked with the focus on function and sleek design expected of their brand.

The Google Nest Protect is significantly more expensive than most of the alarms on this list, but not without good reason. This UL-listed smoke, carbon monoxide, and fire detector requires little installation and communicates directly with your smartphone.

The Google Nest Protect silently tests itself 400 times a day, sparing you from the annoying "battery-low" warnings produced by other alarms. It also comes with a led light that changes colors depending on the message being relayed.

There is plenty of information available online about the different Google Nest Protect models. If you are looking for a one-size-fits-all solution for your home's fire protection plan, and you don't mind spending a little extra money, the Google Nest Protect might be the option for you.

Call us now for monitoring solutions

We get that fire alarm customers might not necessarily be fire monitoring system clients. If you decide that monitoring your fire alarm system might benefit you, please, give us a call at 1-800-523-7232 to discuss custom fire alarm monitoring solutions. Alternatively, you can email us at info@digitize-inc.com and we'll get back to you quickly. Take control of your monitoring experience today!