Best Smoke Detectors in India - Reviews and Comparison 2021

Smoke detectors are broadly classified into six types- ionisation, photoelectric, a combination of ionisation & photoelectric, projected beam, aspirating, and heat detectors.

• Ionisation

There is the use of two metal plates in this type. The electronic current between them senses the smoke when it enters the chamber, which triggers the alarm. This type is best when the intensity of the smoke is very high, or you want to detect flames quickly. This nature makes them sensitive to the smoke from cooking and results in a false alarm.

Most people prefer ionisation smoke detectors as they are inexpensive.

• Photoelectric

Instead of plates & chambers, light-sensitive sensors are used in photoelectric smoke detectors. When this light gets disruptive by smoke, you get notified.

These are most sensitive to fire than smoke. Fire experts suggest using this type as they sense severe fires more quickly and not trigger false alarms.

They cost a bit more than ionisation smoke detectors, but it is worth buying them.

• Combination Detectors

There are smoke detectors in which the best of both the ionisation and photoelectric are taken.

Ionisation is best when the intensity of smoke is very high, whereas photoelectric is best when the intensity of smoke is low, but its amount could be suffocating.

The combination of two detectors takes care of both situations. Additionally, it can sense more than smoke & fire. It raises alert in case of emission of harmful gases as well such as carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide, etc.

• Projected Beam

The projected beam type of smoke detector is not much famous in the modern market. However, their working principle is similar to a photoelectric smoke detector.

The smoke detector with the projected beam continuously emits invisible light beams, and if the direction of the beams is distorted by smoke, the alarm rings.

• Aspirating

The aspirating smoke detector is gaining popularity with time, and light beams are used in this as well.

Sample air is collected from the surroundings and passed through the bore pipes and further into the testing chamber. The light emitter present in the chamber passes light beams through the sample air. If it gets disturbed, you are alerted.

• Heat Detectors

Heat detectors are the oldest forms of smoke detectors.

The detectors have a heat sensor, which predicts the temperature of the surrounding air. The sensor is set at a certain threshold, and once the threshold is broken due to high temperature, it gives the fire indication. Heat detectors alert the user only in case of hazardous fire, whereas, smoke detectors, alert the user in seconds after a fire has started.

Heat detectors are not that effective as smoke detectors are, and therefore, they are rarely used these days. Heat detectors are deployed only at places where smoke sensors and detectors can’t be used or in a small space where high-temperature flames are always expected.

Smoke detectors do not always alert you through loud noise. There are a few types in which you can get smoke and fire alerts, and they are as follows.

• Beeping Alarms

  The loud beeping noise is the most common way a smoke detector alert people about fire.

• Strobe Light Alarms

Strobe light alarms are designed mainly for those who need a hearing aid. In this type, bright strobe light and sometimes vibrations are used to alert users to a potential fire.

• Voice Alarms

If you want a specific voice rather than a generic beeping sound, voice alarms will do the job. At the time of the fire, a pre-recorded voice send the alert and not a beeping sound. People with kids believe that their children may respond better to command coming in their parents’ voice rather than anybody.

• Smart Alarms

Smart fire alarms provide more than beeping sound alert. They can link your smoke detector to a smartphone app which will alert you when your alarm goes off irrespective of the fact where you are.

There are two types of power sources that can be used used in a smoke detector- battery or hard-wire.

Battery-operated

As the name suggests, a battery is used to run the smoke detector. Battery-operated detectors are easy to install and usually come with DIY instructions. Another benefit is that you will be sure that it will work even in the event of a power outage. However, keeping a check on the battery is essential because the low battery will result in low or no beeping sound.

Hard-wire

The smoke detectors with hard-wire power source call for wire installation. The installation system is a bit tough, and you need to seek professional help for the same. Furthermore, they come with the option of including batteries as well, so that even in case of a power cut, you get the alert. This type is typically used in the case of newly constructed buildings since everything is done from scratch by the professionals, then they can take care of this thing as well.

A smoke detector is a device that might not be used for a long time. They stay quiet for so long that it is natural to question if it is still in working condition or will work accurately when a fire breaks out.

It is essential to have confidence in your alarm’s accuracy, and one of the best ways is to get a detector that has both types of detection technology-combination detector. Besides, you can always do regular maintenance and testing.

Usually, smoke detectors have a life span of seven to ten years. Irrespective of the fact which smoke detector you buy, you anticipate the need to replace it in about 7 to 10 years. Nonetheless, the best thing will be to buy a detector that can last for full ten years. Therefore, it is crucial to look for smoke detectors that come with a good warranty as that will reduce your chances of having to buy a new smoke detector earlier than necessary.

If your smoke detector has a battery, then this feature is of utmost importance because you don’t want to be left in the middle of nowhere at a crucial time. The best way to keep an eye on the battery life is to get a smoke detector that has a low battery indicator.

Battery backup varies from one smoke alarm to another, and usually, batteries need to be replaced twice a year. For longer battery life, you should opt for Li-ion batteries as they can last up to 10 years.

Having a smoke detector is not compulsory in India, but in the western world, the government has implemented the rules for the same. The government regulations also specify the guidelines regarding what type to use, when to replace it, etc. In India, we can expect the same soon. We believe when regulations will come into play, it might follow the guidelines set by the west. Therefore, it is best to follow them while purchasing right now.

A smart smoke detector is like a new kid in the block. Smart smoke alarms have a unique set of features that distinguishes them apart from all other smoke alarms. Some of its smart features include receiving alerts and controls on your phone via an app. It notifies you of low battery even when you are away from home. The one equipped with insect screens ensures insects do not set off false alarms. These premium features, however, come with a high price tag.

The modern smoke detector models come with a display feature that shows some vital information such as ambient temperature, the purity level of the air, toxic gases in the atmosphere, etc. Undoubtedly, this extra piece of data can be useful, but the additional cost for these features is not always worth the information they give.

Interconnection, as the name goes, means connecting things amongst each other. In this case, it is smoke detectors. If all smoke detectors are connected, in that case, when even one of them will trigger, all the others connected to it will also trigger. This is usually done in the case of a hard-wiring power source. Again, it proves to be vital in a property with multiple floors.

Interconnection is possible in the case of battery-powered smoke alarms as well. You will have to put wireless connections. However, all the smoke alarms need to be of the same company.

The test button is the feature that helps you find out if the battery or overall detector is in working condition. Smoke detectors from reliable brands come with a test button. When you press and hold the ‘test button’ on the smoke detector, after a few seconds, you will hear a loud, ear-piercing siren emanating from the detector. If there is no sound or it is weak, replace either the model or batteries.

False alarms can be a real pain. Therefore, a silence button to turn off the loud noise is important. And you know what is more convenient, remote control with the mute button.

If you have an adequate home security system, connecting your smoke detector to it will result in a quick alert system in the case of a fire. However, not all smoke detectors are compatible with specific security systems. Moreover, smoke detectors are most compatible with the same brand security devices.

Battery-powered smoke detectors are more popular than hard-wired simply because they are easy to install. You don’t need professional assistance to put a battery operating detector in place. On the contrary, hard-wired smoke detectors installation is complicated. So, if you are not sure about getting any professional help, choose the battery-powered device.

There are modern models of smoke detectors that have a light feature. In this, the light turns on when the alarm is triggered. This immensely helps if an emergency takes place, and there is a power outage as then the light will guide people out.

Position smoke detectors at the best locations for best results. 

• Install wall-mounted alarms such that the top part of the detector is less than 12 inches from the ceiling.
   

• For peaked ceilings, position the alarm minimum of four inches and a maximum of three feet below the peak.

• If it is a basement smoke alarms, then install it on the ceiling at the foot of the stairs.
   

• Mount alarm at least 10 feet from your cooking appliances to minimise false alarms while cooking.
   

• Avoid installing detectors near HVAC ducts, doors, or windows as drafts can interfere with their operation.

• Test your smoke detectors every month, and for that, you can set a “first day of the month” schedule on your calendar.

• If you are not sure about battery life or low battery indicator is missing, replace your batteries twice a year.

• Gently vacuum the smoke alarm every month to prevent dirt from blocking the sensor.

• Never paint a smoke alarm. Paint can restrict airflow, and the alarm can have difficulty detecting a fire.

Despite having no signs of fire, your smoke detector might be going off regularly due to one of the following reasons:

• Check battery as it might be loose, dying or installed incorrectly.

• The alarm sensors need cleaning.

• If the detector is installed near an open window, then the draft might have blow dust or pollen into the alarm sensors.

• The alarm is in a high-humidity area such as a bathroom, so, due to steam from a hot shower alarm is getting triggered.

• The detector could be too close to cooking equipment. Steam or smoke from the stove, or heat from an open oven, can possibly trigger a smoke alarm.

• Your detector might need replacement.

You can always go through the instructions manual for battery replacement guidelines. The steps can vary model to model, but typically, they are:

Step 1

Open the detector You might need a screwdriver for the same. After that, the cover should either twist off or unsnap.

Step 2

Install the battery. Unsnap the connectors on the old battery and plug in the new one.

Step 3

Press the test button. After inserting the new battery, ensure that you have installed it correctly using the test button. Press and hold the ‘test button’ for a few seconds, and if the detector makes a sound, then, a great job is done!

• Know about the availability of the detector’s features and how to use them.

• Understand how the smoke alarm respond to threats as that will help in quick interpretation.

• Understand how the device indicates loss of power, low batteries and end of life.

• Know the life span and initial power-up date of the smoke detector, and replace it on time.

• After an alarm, use the instructions to find out how to reset it.

Avoid installing a smoke alarm at the following places as that can cause nuisance alarms or reduce its performance.

• Avoid dusty, dirty or greasy areas such as garages and unfinished attics.

• Do not install near stove, furnace, heater, water and space heater.

• Do not install in high-humid areas. Install at least 3 meters away from familiar sources of humidity including shower, sauna, humidifier, diffuser, dishwasher, laundry and utility room.

• Do not install in an area that gets direct sunlight.

• Avoid installing in an area prone to turbulent air as that can prevent CO or smoke from reaching the sensors.

• Avoid areas where the temperature is less than 4.4° C and more than 37.8° C.

• Avoid insect-infested areas as insects can clog the sensor’s openings.

• Do not install at dead air spaces as that can prevent smoke from reaching the alarm.

Kidde is a known company in the world of fire safety. Since its establishment in 1917, it has introduced many innovations in the smoke alarm sector. They were the first to produce a combination smoke detector that can detect both fire and poisonous gas.

Not only the company but its product are trustworthy and therefore, i9040 ranks first on our list. In fact, it is the customer’s favourite too.

i9040 is a battery-operated smoke detector and comes with a 9-volt battery. It can be used in an area with a temperature up to 100-degree centigrade, and that has a maximum humidity level of 85%. Due to the ionisation sensor type, it is best suited for high-intensity flames.

It gives an audio warning with the help of a smoke alarm, and a visual low battery warning via a red LED bulb. Moreover, you can mount it either on the ceiling or wall.

World’s smallest smoke detector is second on our list mainly due to only six months warranty. Otherwise, it shares many things with the winner like 85 Db alarm sound, 10 feet detention range, and both audio and visual alarm type.

Besides being the world’s smallest smoke detector, the brand also claims that the device has ten years of battery life! Its unique self-check function indicates you in case the chamber has dust or malfunction. Its smart clip mechanism makes the installation job easy.

It is a very lightweight smoke detector made using high-quality ABS plastic. It can operate in 4ºC - 38ºC temperature and 10% - 90% RH (non-condensing) humid weather.

Universal Security Instruments SS-901-2C/3CC is a battery-operated smoke detector that has built-in photoelectric sensors for catching smouldering fire and smoke.

This detector has been tested to meet UL standards and comes with five years warranty. It gives both audio and visual warning via a loud 85-decibel alarm horn and red LED indicator. It has a chamber and cover design to protect the alarm from insects and contaminants.

It comes with all the required features as well like a test button, easy installation process, and mounting hardware.

Walnut innovations is a new company that is changing the way we use mechanical and electrical products. This Indian company with a broad portfolio is making its mark in the field of electronic home automation as well. Their innovative approach has brought them many accolades.

Their smoke sensor on our review list is one of the best of its type. It is the only hard-wired smoke detector on our list and has a photoelectric sensor type. Walnut Innovations is a brand, and therefore, the detector has battery-backup as well in case the power goes out.

Both audio and visual mediums are used for alerting users. The alarm sound is 85 decibels, which is hard to ignore. It has a compact design consisting of a test button, a mute button, and a low-battery warning indicator.

You can mount it on any ceiling or wall, and it is suitable for all sizes of room.

Preyank Solar smoke detector has a few features to admire, and the detection range it covers, top the list. It can detect fire smoke from 25 feet away, and the maximum range covered by the alarm is 85 metres. Besides, we admire the 85 Db loud alarm signal.

It is a low power consuming smoke detector and also has an anti-humidity feature. Speaking of primary features like the test button and discharged battery indicator, it has all of them.

BT35F is an easy to use smoke detector. This photo photoelectric sensor type detector is a battery-powered device and uses a 12 V battery. The operating temperature is 10 ~ +50 degree Celcius and the humidity level should be less than 95% RII.

It can detect smoke from as far as 25 feet. On the one hand, we are not satisfied with the six months warranty, and on the other hand, we do recommend the device for its one-year battery life. It is a low power consuming product with a continuous monitoring system, test button and flashing LED indication.

The QUBO smart smoke detector uses smart technology to manage the alarm via the QUBO mobile app quickly. The app notifies you immediately about any smoke and fire. Also, it flashes a light and triggers a 70 Db loud alarm to alert the user.

It uses a CR123A battery and has an extraordinary battery life of three years. On the downside, it has only one year warranty and works only with QUBO indoor camera. However, we admire the DIY installation process. It comes with screws just like all other detectors. However, the sticker is also provided, and you can simply peel off the sticker and mount it on a wall or ceiling. It has a wide detection range- 16 feet.