How do you choose a smoke detector?
In short
When you're looking for the best smoke detector for your situation, there are several properties you should keep in mind. Make sure to ask yourself the following:
- How many smoke detectors will you install?
- Do you want to install the smoke detector wirelessly?
- Are you looking for a smart, linkable, or basic smoke detector?
- Do you need extra smoke detectors?
- Do you want a smoke detector with extra properties?
How many smoke detectors will you install?
Install at least 1 smoke detector on every floor in your house. This is mandatory for every home. The best place for a smoke detector is on the flight route. You take this route when you go outside in case of fire. Often, the hallway is such a flight route. A smoke detector in every bedroom isn't mandatory, but it's safe. The same applies to a smoke detector in the living room. So the number of mandatory smoke detectors is different from the recommended number.
Do you want to install the smoke detector wirelessly?
Smoke detectors work on batteries or on the power grid. You can install a battery-powered smoke detector anywhere in the house. You don't have to connect it with a cable to the power grid. Connect a corded smoke detector to an existing power cord in your house and mount it to your ceiling. Due to this, you have less freedom of choice when you place the detector. Smoke detectors that run on the power grid always have a backup battery in case you experience a power outage.
Are you looking for a smart, linkable, or basic smoke detector?
Smart smoke detectors
A smart smoke detector connects to your smartphone wirelessly. It connects via WiFi or another wireless method. The accompanying app on your phone sends notifications if the smoke detector sounds an alarm. You also receive a message when you're not at home. You can easily connect smart smoke detectors to other detectors of the same model. In addition, you can connect other smart products to the detector. This allows you to integrate the device into your smart home.
Linkable smoke detectors
Linkable smoke detectors don't have all the functions of a smart smoke detector. They can be linked to other detectors of the same model, though. They can send an alarm to detectors of the same model. If one of your smoke detectors detects a fire, all linked devices respond. You'll hear an alarm throughout the house. This way, a set of linkable smoke detectors provides more safety than a regular smoke detector.
Basic smoke detectors
A basic smoke detector doesn't have extra functions. All it does is raise the alarm in case of smoke. Basic smoke detectors don't have a smartphone app and you can't link them to other smoke detectors. This makes them more affordable than linkable and smart smoke detectors. If you want an affordable detector that only detects smoke, choose a basic smoke detector.
Do you need extra smoke detectors?
Can't you walk well or do you have young children? Place extra smoke detectors? This way, you'll get a warning earlier in case of fire. This gives you extra time and increases the chance of getting out safely. Place extra smoke detectors in the hallway as well as in the bedroom or study, for example.
Do you want a smoke detector with extra properties?
Some smoke detectors have unique properties. For example, an extra loud alarm or built-in LED lighting. Smart smoke detectors sometimes have other extra options. Are you hearing impaired? Choose a smoke detector that you can connect to your smart lights. The lights then turn on at the same time as your smoke detector. This way, you also get a visible warning.
