KIDDE

Kidde Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector

8.7

Choosing the Right Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector: A Look at Kidde

Picking a smoke and carbon monoxide detector is important for keeping your home and family safe. Here's what to think about when you're choosing one:

1. How It Detects Danger (Sensor Technology): Different detectors use different ways to sense smoke and carbon monoxide. Some use "photoelectric" sensors, which are good at finding slow-burning, smoky fires. Others use "ionization" sensors, which are better at quickly spotting fast, flaming fires. Think about what kind of fire you're most worried about and pick a detector with the right sensor.

2. How It Gets Power (Power Source): You can usually choose between detectors that run on batteries or ones that are wired into your house's electricity. Battery-powered ones are easier to set up, but you need to change the batteries regularly. Wired-in detectors are connected to your home's power and usually have a battery backup in case the power goes out.

3. Smart Features: Some detectors can connect to your phone or other smart devices. This lets you check on your home's safety even when you're not there. If you want these features, look for a detector that has them.

4. Is It Safe? (Certification): Make sure the detector you buy has been tested and approved by safety organizations. Look for labels like UL (Underwriters Laboratories) or CSA (Canadian Standards Association). This means the detector meets certain safety standards.

5. Is It Easy to Use? (Convenience): Think about how easy the detector is to install and keep running. Some have voice alarms or buttons that make it easy to test the alarm and turn it off if needed.

While all these things are important, the sensor technology is probably the most important. Making sure the detector has the right sensors for the kinds of fires you're worried about will really help keep your home safe.

Q: How often do I need to change the batteries?

A: Kidde suggests changing the batteries once a year, even if the detector isn't beeping to tell you the battery is low. This makes sure the detector always works when you need it.

Q: Can I connect this detector to my phone or other smart devices?

A: No, this Kidde detector doesn't have any smart features. It works on its own.

Q: Can it tell the difference between smoke and carbon monoxide?

A: Yes, this detector uses two different sensors to tell the difference. It will make different sounds depending on whether it detects smoke or carbon monoxide, so you know what's going on.

The Kidde Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector is a good, basic way to protect your home. It has two sensors and meets safety standards, so you can trust it to alert you to smoke or carbon monoxide. It doesn't have smart features, but it's easy to use and set up. When you're shopping for a detector, think about the sensor technology, power source, smart features, certifications, and how easy it is to use. This will help you choose the right one for your needs.

Kidde Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector

8.7