10 Best Wired Smoke Alarms 2025 in the United States

The First Alert SMICO100-AC Interconnect Hardwire Combination Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm is a reliable option featuring advanced sensing technology that reduces false alarms from cooking. It uses ionization sensors to detect smoke and carbon monoxide, providing an early warning in case of a fire emergency.

One of its significant benefits is the interconnectivity feature, meaning when one alarm goes off, all connected alarms will sound. This is particularly useful in larger homes for comprehensive safety coverage. Additionally, the quick connect plug allows for straightforward installation without the need for extensive rewiring, making it user-friendly for most homeowners.

Its battery backup ensures continuous protection even during power outages, which is a crucial safety feature. The test/silence button adds convenience by allowing easy testing and silencing of the alarm when needed. Users who prefer a simple, dependable smoke and CO alarm will appreciate what this model offers.

The First Alert SMI100-AC is a hardwired smoke alarm designed for reliable home fire safety. Utilizing ionization sensor technology, it is particularly effective in detecting fast-flaming fires. One of its standout features is the advanced Precision Detection technology, which significantly reduces false alarms from cooking, making it more practical for use in kitchens or near cooking areas.

Additionally, the interconnectivity feature ensures that when one alarm goes off, all compatible alarms in the network will sound, providing a comprehensive warning system throughout the house. This smoke alarm also comes with a battery backup, ensuring continuous protection during power outages, which is crucial for maintaining safety at all times. The alarm indicator helps to quickly identify which unit triggered the alarm, which can save time and reduce confusion during an emergency.

Installation is made easy with the Quick Connect Plug, allowing users to set it up without the need for complex rewiring. However, potential users should note that this model uses ionization sensors, which might be less effective at detecting smoldering fires compared to photoelectric sensors. Additionally, while the battery backup is a great feature, it does require periodic battery changes, which might be seen as a minor inconvenience. Despite these points, the First Alert SMI100-AC remains a highly suitable choice for those looking for straightforward installation and robust home fire safety features.

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.