There are many different brands that are claiming to be the best on the market but they fall under two basic types: ionization and photoelectric. The ionization is faster when a fast moving fire occurs. Photoelectric detectors are quicker at sensing smoking fires. There are also one type that combine ionization and photoelectric sensors in one unit, named dual sensor smoke detectors.

Because the ionization and photoelectric smoke alarms are better at detecting different fire but it is possible to trigger fatal alarms, and because homeowners can not predict what type of fire can start in a home, I would recommends the installation of ionization and photoelectric smoke alarms or dual sensor.

I would suggest you buy six Kidde Wireless Smoke Alarm units and they are in the range of each other. They work on wireless, so when one receives an alarm signal of other units , it will re-transmit the alarm signal again for the rest of units in the range.

Installation is relatively simple and brackets included for easy hanging on wall or ceiling. The tests were almost flawless and the first time I pressed the test button I knew nobody was able to sleep by Kidde Wireless Smoke Alarm.. My only complaint is the test sequence seems a bit short, given the need to run away from the house to check all the 6 units have been successfully launched in response to each test button is pressed.

I intend to add more Kidde Wireless Smoke Alarm units now, I saw how they are easy to use and they seem to work. My fears about a unnoticeable fire started in the basement were allayed.