10 Best Wired Smoke Alarms 2025 in the United States

The Kidde Hardwired Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector combines smoke and carbon monoxide detection in one device, which is cost-effective and space-saving. It uses advanced photoelectric and electrochemical sensors to detect smoke and carbon monoxide accurately. The alarm operates on a hardwired power source with a backup from two AA batteries, ensuring continuous protection even during power outages.

The interconnectivity feature is beneficial for larger homes, as it allows all connected alarms to sound simultaneously when one is triggered, enhancing safety. The alarm volume is robust at 85 decibels, ensuring that it is loud enough to be heard in an emergency. The three LED notifications provide clear indicators of the alarm's status, making it easy to understand its condition at a glance.

Installation is straightforward thanks to the included mounting hardware and user guide, though some users might need professional help if they are not comfortable with electrical wiring. The device also includes a test and hush button for easy testing and silencing of false alarms. While it doesn't have advanced smart features like app connectivity, it meets rigorous safety standards and includes a 10-year limited warranty, which indicates its reliability. It might not be suitable for those looking for the latest smart home integrations. The self-testing feature is a plus, but it doesn't replace the need for regular manual testing. This detector is ideal for homeowners seeking a reliable, dual-function smoke and carbon monoxide alarm with essential safety features without the need for smart home compatibility.

The Kidde Hardwired Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector offers a comprehensive solution with its dual detection capability for both smoke and carbon monoxide. This feature is particularly beneficial for households looking to save space and cost by avoiding the need for separate detectors. The device is hardwired, ensuring consistent power supply, and includes a 10-year battery backup, which eliminates the need for frequent battery changes and potentially saves money in the long run. This setup makes it highly reliable, especially during power outages.

The interconnectivity feature is a significant safety advantage, as it ensures all connected alarms sound simultaneously, providing early warning throughout the home. The device also boasts advanced sensing technology to minimize false alarms, which is useful in highly active areas like kitchens. LED indicators and an 85-decibel alarm ensure clear communication of the alarm status, enhancing its usability. However, the installation might be challenging for those not familiar with electrical wiring, potentially requiring professional help.

The sensor types (photoelectric and electrochemical) are effective but might not cover all possible fire types as comprehensively as some other models available. While it offers self-testing features, users are still required to perform manual tests weekly. Additionally, the lack of smart features like app connectivity might be a drawback for tech-savvy users wanting real-time notifications on their smartphones. This makes it a solid choice for those seeking a reliable, dual-function smoke and carbon monoxide detector with interconnectivity and long-term power backup, albeit with some considerations for installation and smart feature limitations.

The Kidde Hardwired Smoke Detector with a 10-Year Battery Backup is a solid choice for those looking for a reliable smoke alarm. It uses a photoelectric sensor, which is effective in detecting slow, smoldering fires and reduces false alarms often caused by cooking. The detector is hardwired, ensuring continuous power with a 10-year lithium battery backup that offers peace of mind without the need for frequent battery changes. This can save users up to $40 over the detector's lifespan. The alarm is loud at 85 decibels, ensuring that it will be heard throughout the house.

Additionally, the interconnectivity feature means that if one alarm goes off, all connected alarms will sound, which is crucial for quick evacuation in case of a fire. The 3 LED notifications provide clear status updates: green for normal operation, amber for errors, and red when smoke is detected. The inclusion of a test and hush button allows for easy testing and silencing of false alarms. Installation is fairly straightforward with the provided mounting hardware, although users should be comfortable working with their home's electrical system or consider hiring a professional.

On the downside, the alarm's reliance on being hardwired might be a limitation for some, and the sensor type may not be as effective in detecting fast, flaming fires compared to ionization sensors. Lastly, the unit is made of plastic, which might not appeal to everyone, but it does keep the weight light at 0.59 pounds. In summary, this Kidde smoke detector offers robust features and reliable performance, making it suitable for most households seeking enhanced safety.