Since 1976, First Alert has been providing protection for homes. The company launched with battery-operated smoke detectors, then followed in 1996 with carbon monoxide alarms. Over the years, it has continued to introduce dependable home safety products that include home security systems, safes and more.
First Alert has a solid reputation for providing dependable smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. While these products don’t necessarily come with all the bells and whistles that some other alarms do, there is an array of affordable choices that consumers can trust. The company, which is part of BRK Electronics, is headquartered in Illinois and has offices around the world.
First Alert smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are a good option to consider for homeowners who don’t want to spend a lot of money but still want to protect their homes and families. They are also an excellent choice for senior citizens and others who may be hard of hearing, as some First Alert alarms have frequencies that make it easier for them to hear.
Pros
- Both hard-wired and battery-operated options: While some people prefer a smoke or CO alarm that is hardwired into their home, others prefer the flexibility that battery-operated models offer. First Alert offers an array of both types.
- Photoelectric and ionization sensors: When it comes to smoke sensors, there are two kinds used in alarms to detect fires—photoelectric and ionization sensors. Photoelectronic sensors use light and are best to detect fires that are moving quickly. Ionization sensors are better at detecting fires with more smoke than flames. First Alert offers models that feature each, and some that feature both, so you can make the best choice for your home.
- One-stop home security shop: First Alert sells a full range of products to keep your home safe beyond smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. It also sells motion detectors, escape ladders, safes and home security systems, which is a bonus for people who prefer to deal with companies to cover all their home security needs.
Cons
- False alarms: While most customer reviews of First Alert smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are positive, there are some complaints about occasional false alarms and random chirping, which can be frustrating, particularly if they go off in the middle of the night.
- Aesthetics: If you’re looking for sleek, sophisticated design, First Alert alarms may not fit the bill. While they have an array of models to choose from, most are basic and traditional in design.
Popular Models
First Alert Smoke Alarms
3120B Smoke Alarm – This alarm must be hardwired into your home, but it has a battery backup in case you lose power. It has both photoelectric and ionization sensors.
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SA3210 10-Year Battery Smoke Alarm – No hardwiring is necessary for this alarm. Rather than electricity, it runs on a battery. But don’t worry about having to change that battery frequently, since it’s designed to last for 10 years. It has both photoelectric and ionization sensors.
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SA521CN-3ST Interconnected Smoke Alarm – This alarm must be hardwired, but it can be connected with other First Alert alarms so that when one sounds, all the alarms in the house sound. It has a battery backup and uses a photoelectric sensor. The list price is $75.99.
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First Alert Carbon Monoxide Detectors
CO250 Basic Carbon Monoxide Alarm – This basic model requires no hardwiring. It runs on a 9-volt battery, which is included.
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CO605 Carbon Monoxide Plug-In Alarm – This model doesn’t require any hardwiring either. Instead, it plugs into any standard electrical outlet. A 9-volt battery backup kicks in if you should lose power.
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CO615 Dual-Power Carbon Monoxide Alarm – Like the CO605, this model plugs into any standard electrical outlet, and it has a battery backup. The primary difference is that this one has a digital display that lets you check the power level and alerts at a glance.
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Combination Smoke Alarm and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
PRC710 Combination Alarm with 10-Year Battery Life – This alarm will detect both smoke and carbon monoxide. It has a built-in, 10-year battery and requires no hardwiring.
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SC7010B Hardwire Combination Alarm – This dual-purpose alarm also covers both your smoke and carbon monoxide detection needs. As its name implies, this alarm must be hardwired, though it has a battery backup in case power is lost. The alert is specially designed to be heard by those with age-related hearing loss.
The First Alert SC7010B was picked as one of our choices for the best smoke alarms
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SCO501CN-3ST Battery Operated Combination Alarm – This dual-purpose alarm is battery-powered. It features a voice alarm that lets you know the type of danger it’s sensing and where it’s located.
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The Bottom Line
First Alert is a solid company with a long-standing reputation for providing dependable, affordable products to keep your home safe. Their smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors get primarily positive reviews from customers, though there are some reports of false alarms.
First Alert offers a wide array of smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, including both hardwired and battery operated models as well as dual-purpose models that help protect your home and family from both fire and carbon monoxide. Look closely at the models you’re considering to ensure it’s the right one for your needs and wants. While many of First Alert’s models don’t come with all the home automation integration options that some other companies’ alarms do, they are worth considering if you need basic, reliable alarms, detectors and other home security products.
This article has been reviewed and approved by Officer Banta.
Officer Banta is the official SecurityNerd home security and safety expert. A member of the Biloxi Police Department for over 24 years, Officer Banta reviews all articles before lending his stamp of approval. Click here for more information on Officer Banta and the rest of our team.
