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10 Best Hardwired Smoke Detector 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.8  score

FIRST ALERT BRK SC9120FF Hardwired Smoke and Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detector with Battery Backup, 1 pack , White

Sensor Type: electrochemical, ionization
Interconnectivity: connect with BRK or First Alert
Power Source: Battery Powered, Hardwired
Alarm Volume: 85 decibels
Ease of Installation: straightforward installation

Chosen by 1124 this week

First Alert 9120B Smoke Detector, Hardwired Alarm with Battery Backup, 6-Pack

Sensor Type: Ionization
Interconnectivity: Interconnect with compatible BRK or First Alert
Power Source: Battery Powered
Alarm Volume: 85-decibel
Ease of Installation: Tamper-resistant locking, universal mounting brackets

Kidde Hardwired Smoke Detector, 10-Year Battery Backup, Interconnectable, LED Warning Light Indicators, 20SA10

Sensor Type: Photoelectric
Interconnectivity: All connected alarms will sound
Power Source: Hardwired with battery backup
Alarm Volume: 85 decibels
Smart Features: LED indicators, self-testing
Ease of Installation: Hardwired installation challenging
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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

FIRST ALERT BRK SC9120FF Hardwired Smoke and Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detector with Battery Backup, 1 pack , White

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,124
Ease of Installation

Most important from
27309 reviews

Ease of Installation
Easy to install and good quality.

The FIRST ALERT BRK SC9120FF Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector is designed to provide comprehensive safety for your home. It features dual sensing technology, using both an electrochemical sensor for carbon monoxide and an ionization sensor for smoke detection, which ensures accurate identification of potentially hazardous conditions. The unit's interconnectivity allows it to connect with other BRK or First Alert detectors, creating a network of alarms that simultaneously alert you to danger, enhancing home safety.

The hardwired setup with a battery backup ensures continuous monitoring, even during power outages, which is a crucial feature for uninterrupted protection. The alarm volume is notably loud at 85 decibels, providing a clear and unmistakable warning in case of smoke or CO detection. Additionally, indicator lights on the unit's face ensure you can visually confirm the presence of smoke or carbon monoxide.

Although it lacks smart features like app connectivity or voice alerts, it compensates with a user-friendly design. The single test/silence button simplifies operation, while the side-load battery compartment and tamper-resistant locking brackets contribute to straightforward installation. Rigorously tested to meet UL standards, this detector demonstrates reliability and quality, backed by a trusted brand with decades of experience in home safety. The ease of installation further makes it suitable for quick setup, whether by professionals or DIY homeowners. Its strong performance in essential detection and safety makes it a highly reliable option for most households.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,124
Ease of Installation

Most important from
27309 reviews

Ease of Installation
Easy to install and good quality.
#2

First Alert 9120B Smoke Detector, Hardwired Alarm with Battery Backup, 6-Pack

Rating
9.6
Power Source
Ease of Installation

Most important from
11417 reviews

Power Source
Pre-installed batteries with a simple activation process make setup straightforward.
Ease of Installation
Very easy to install, with alarm accuracy and reliability that have proven effective.

The First Alert 9120B Smoke Detector is a reliable choice for home safety with a 6-pack of hardwired alarms, ensuring comprehensive coverage. It features an ionization sensor, which is effective at detecting fast-flaming fires, and emits a loud 85-decibel alarm to alert you of danger.

The device's single test/silence button and side-load battery compartment make it user-friendly, while the tamper-resistant locking and universal mounting brackets simplify installation. The alarms can interconnect with other compatible BRK or First Alert smoke detectors, ensuring all units sound off when smoke is detected, which is a significant advantage for whole-home safety.

Additionally, the battery backup provides continuous monitoring even during power outages, enhancing reliability. However, a loose neutral wire connection in the home junction box could cause malfunctions, so attention to proper wiring is important. While it lacks smart features, making it less suitable for users seeking advanced tech integration, its strong performance and ease of use make it a dependable option for most households.

Rating
9.6
Power Source
Ease of Installation

Most important from
11417 reviews

Power Source
Pre-installed batteries with a simple activation process make setup straightforward.
Ease of Installation
Very easy to install, with alarm accuracy and reliability that have proven effective.
#3

Kidde Hardwired Smoke Detector, 10-Year Battery Backup, Interconnectable, LED Warning Light Indicators, 20SA10

Rating
9.3
Interconnectivity
Power Source
Smart Features

Most important from
646 reviews

Interconnectivity
Interconnectivity feature ensures all alarms sound if one goes off, enhancing home safety.
Power Source
A significant value with the 10-year battery backup, eliminating the need for frequent battery changes.
Smart Features
Simple functionality without unnecessary smart features, ensuring ease of use.
Ease of Installation
Easy to install even for those who aren't electricians, with clear instructions.

The Kidde Hardwired Smoke Detector offers several noteworthy features that make it a strong candidate for home safety. It uses photoelectric sensors, which are effective at detecting smoldering fires and less prone to false alarms from cooking. Its interconnectivity feature ensures that if one alarm goes off, all connected alarms will sound, providing enhanced safety throughout your home. The detector is hardwired, meaning it requires installation into your home's electrical system, but also includes a 10-year battery backup, ensuring continued operation even during power outages and eliminating frequent battery changes.

The alarm is loud at 85 decibels, ensuring it will be heard in an emergency. Smart features include LED indicators that provide status updates, reducing the need to guess if the detector is working properly. The detector is designed to be easy to test and silence false alarms, adding to its user-friendly nature. However, the hardwired installation might be challenging for some and might require professional help. Additionally, the detector does not have advanced smart features like remote notifications or integration with home automation systems.

The self-testing feature offers reassurance, though a manual test is recommended weekly. It meets stringent safety standards and comes with a 10-year warranty, which is excellent for long-term reliability. Users who prioritize safety, reliability, and ease of maintenance will find this smoke detector suitable for their needs.

Rating
9.3
Interconnectivity
Power Source
Smart Features

Most important from
646 reviews

Interconnectivity
Interconnectivity feature ensures all alarms sound if one goes off, enhancing home safety.
Power Source
A significant value with the 10-year battery backup, eliminating the need for frequent battery changes.
Smart Features
Simple functionality without unnecessary smart features, ensuring ease of use.
Ease of Installation
Easy to install even for those who aren't electricians, with clear instructions.

Buying Guide for the Best Hardwired Smoke Detector

Choosing the right hardwired smoke detector is crucial for ensuring the safety of your home or business. A hardwired smoke detector is connected directly to your home's electrical system, providing a reliable power source and often featuring battery backup for added security. When selecting a hardwired smoke detector, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Understanding these specifications will help you make an informed decision and ensure that your property is well-protected against fire hazards.
Sensor TypeThe sensor type in a smoke detector determines how it detects smoke. The two main types are ionization and photoelectric sensors. Ionization sensors are better at detecting fast-flaming fires, while photoelectric sensors are more responsive to smoldering fires. Some models combine both types for comprehensive coverage. Consider the type of fire risks in your environment to choose the right sensor type. For general home use, a combination detector is often the best choice.
InterconnectivityInterconnectivity refers to the ability of multiple smoke detectors to communicate with each other. When one detector senses smoke, all interconnected units will sound an alarm. This feature is important for larger homes or buildings to ensure that everyone is alerted in case of a fire, regardless of where it starts. If you have a multi-story home or a large property, look for smoke detectors that offer interconnectivity.
Power SourceHardwired smoke detectors are connected to your home's electrical system, but they should also have a battery backup to ensure they work during power outages. The battery can be either replaceable or sealed-in (long-life). Replaceable batteries need to be changed regularly, while sealed-in batteries can last up to 10 years. Consider your preference for maintenance and convenience when choosing the power source.
Alarm VolumeThe alarm volume is the loudness of the smoke detector's alarm, typically measured in decibels (dB). A louder alarm ensures that it can be heard throughout the home, even when people are sleeping. Most smoke detectors have an alarm volume of around 85 dB, which is sufficient for most homes. If you have a larger home or hearing-impaired individuals, you might want to look for detectors with higher volume or additional alert features like strobe lights.
Smart FeaturesSome modern smoke detectors come with smart features, such as connectivity to your smartphone, integration with home automation systems, and voice alerts. These features can provide additional convenience and safety, allowing you to receive alerts and monitor your smoke detectors remotely. If you are tech-savvy and want more control over your home’s safety, consider smoke detectors with smart features.
Ease of InstallationEase of installation is an important factor, especially if you plan to install the smoke detectors yourself. Some models come with easy-to-follow instructions and mounting hardware, while others might require professional installation. Consider your comfort level with electrical work and choose a model that matches your installation preferences. If in doubt, it’s always best to consult a professional.

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