The Best Smoke Detectors of 2025

Home safety has never been more important, advanced or accessible. Smoke detectors have evolved beyond simple alarms to include sophisticated smart home features that protect your family while integrating with iOS and Android apps. Today's best smoke detectors offer multi-threat detection, smartphone connectivity, voice alerts, and features specifically designed for accessibility.

Whether you're building a new home, upgrading old or expired detectors, or creating a comprehensive safety system, choosing the right smoke detector is key.  Some units detect both smoke only, while others can also detect carbon monoxide (CO) as well.  Some are best at detecting smouldering fires while others are better with fast moving flaming fires.   Most can interconnect using your building's wiring while others can interconnect wirelessly.  Accessible models feature LED strobes for the hearing impaired, which can help with compliance with building codes. Smart models can send mobile alerts when you're away.  With technology advancing rapidly and building codes becoming more stringent, 2026 is the perfect time to upgrade your home's fire safety infrastructure.

This guide showcases the top smoke detectors available at Aartech Canada, featuring models from industry leaders First Alert and BRK Electronics. Each product has been selected for its reliability, advanced features, and real-world performance.

First Alert SC5 Smart Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm (Hardwired)

Model: FSMCO600NV-AC-A / FSMCO600NVACL1

The First Alert SC5 represents the newest in smart home fire safety, combining advanced dual-threat detection with smart phone connectivity and interconnection to wired and wireless models. This hardwired model serves is the best replacement for the now discontinued Nest Protect while offering superior features and reliability.

Product Description:

The SC5 Hardwired Smart Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm offers intelligent detection technology and real-time mobile alerts. Hardwired into your 120V electrical system with a built-in battery backup, this combination alarm provides protection even during power outages. It connects to your home's Wi-Fi network, enabling remote monitoring through the First Alert or Google Home app, making it perfect for homeowners who want to stay informed whether they're home or away.  It can also interconnect with other BRK and First Alert hardwired units throughout the home.

Key Features & Benefits:

• Dual-Threat Detection: Simultaneously monitors for smoke and dangerous, odourless carbon monoxide levels using advanced sensors
• Smart Mobile Alerts: Receive notifications on your iOS or Android smartphone when smoke or CO is detected, even when you're away from home
• Voice Alerts with Heads-Up Warning: Clear voice announcements identify the type and location of danger, helping occupants respond appropriately
• Google Nest Compatibility: Integrates with Google Home ecosystem for unified smart home management.  Recommended by Google as the NEST Protect replacement.
• Precision Detection Technology: Advanced algorithms reduce nuisance alarms from cooking or steam while maintaining maximum sensitivity to real threats
• Hardwired Interconnectivity: When one alarm triggers, all connected alarms throughout your home sound simultaneously
• Quick-Connect Plug: Simplifies installation with easy electrical connections.  Adapter included to use an existing NEST Protect plug.
• Battery Backup: Ensures protection continues during power failures
• 10-Year Sealed Battery: Long-lasting backup power eliminates frequent battery changes

Best For: Tech-savvy homeowners, those replacing Nest Protect units, anyone wanting remote monitoring capabilities

View Product Details →

Watch Installation Video on YouTube →

BRK SC9120BA Hardwired Combination Smoke & CO Alarm

Model: SC9120BA

The BRK SC9120BA delivers reliable dual-threat protection with proven ionization technology and professional-grade construction. This hardwired combination alarm is ideal for all types of homes where dependable fire and CO detection is essential.

Product Description:

Designed specifically for residential and institutional settings including sleeping rooms in hospitals, hotels, motels, and dormitories, the SC9120BA provides protection against both fire and carbon monoxide threats. Its ionization smoke sensor excels at detecting fast-flaming fires, while the electrochemical CO sensor monitors for this deadly, odourless gas. The hardwired 120V AC design with 9V battery backup ensures your home stays protected even during power outages.

Key Features & Benefits:

• Ionization Smoke Detection: Highly responsive to fast-flaming fires
• Electrochemical CO Sensor: Professional-grade carbon monoxide detection with high accuracy
• 120V AC Hardwired with Battery Backup: Continuous protection with 9V battery backup during power failures
• 85 dB Alarm: Loud, attention-grabbing alert ensures occupants wake up and take action
• Interconnectable Design: Link up to 24 BRK/First Alert devices (18 smoke alarms, 6 accessories)
• Quick-Connect Power Harness: Simplified installation reduces setup time
• Canadian UL Listed: Meets UL 217 and UL 2034 standards for smoke and CO detection
• 10-Year Limited Warranty: Long-term manufacturer support and reliability
• Low Battery Warning: Chirping alert signals when backup battery needs replacement
• Compact Profile: 5.58" diameter design fits standard electrical boxes

Best For: New construction, multi-unit buildings, rental properties, institutional facilities, code compliance upgrades.

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Watch Product Review on YouTube →

BRK 7030BSLA 3-in-1 Smoke, CO & LED Strobe Alarm

Model: 7030BSLA

The BRK 7030BSLA breaks new ground in accessible home safety with its integrated 177 candela LED strobe light, making it an essential choice for homes with hearing-impaired occupants or anyone requiring visual emergency alerts.  Many provinces and municipalities now require strobe lights integrated with smoke detectors.

Product Description:

This innovative 3-in-1 alarm combines photoelectric smoke detection, electrochemical carbon monoxide sensing, and a powerful 177 candela LED strobe into one sleek, low-profile unit. The photoelectric sensor excels at detecting slow-smoldering fires typical of upholstery and bedding, while the CO sensor provides continuous monitoring for carbon monoxide. The integrated strobe light flashes during alarms, ensuring that deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals are immediately alerted to danger. With a 10-year sealed lithium battery providing backup power for all functions, this detector delivers complete, maintenance-free protection.

Key Features & Benefits:

• 177 Candela LED Strobe: High-intensity visual alert meets ADA requirements for hearing-impaired occupants
• Photoelectric Smoke Sensor: Superior detection of slow, smoldering fires that produce heavy smoke
• Electrochemical CO Sensor: Accurate monitoring of carbon monoxide levels
• 10-Year Sealed Lithium Battery: Decade-long backup power eliminates battery replacement hassles
• 85 dB Horn: Loud audible alert for traditional notification
• Low-Profile Design: Modern 5.2" diameter, 2.3" height fits seamlessly into any décor
• 120V Hardwired: Primary AC power with battery backup for complete reliability
• ADA Compliant: Meets accessibility standards for hearing-impaired safety
• Interconnectable: Links with other compatible alarms for whole-home protection
• Tamper Resist Feature: Prevents unauthorized removal

Best For: Homes with deaf or hard-of-hearing residents, accessibility requirements, code compliance, bedrooms, basements, families prioritizing inclusive safety

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Watch Strobe Alarm Demo on YouTube →

BRK 7020BSLA Smoke Alarm with LED Strobe

Model: 7020BSLA

For those seeking dedicated smoke detection with visual alerting capabilities, the BRK 7020BSLA offers an ideal solution. This 2-in-1 unit combines photoelectric smoke sensing with an LED strobe light for comprehensive fire detection accessible to all occupants.

Product Description:

The 7020BSLA focuses specifically on fire detection while providing visual alerts through its integrated LED strobe. Utilizing photoelectric sensor technology, this alarm is particularly effective at detecting slow-burning fires that produce significant smoke before flames appear—common scenarios in bedroom and living room fires involving furniture, bedding, or electrical components. The 120V hardwired design with 10-year sealed battery backup ensures reliable, maintenance-free operation throughout its lifespan.

Key Features & Benefits:

• Photoelectric Smoke Detection: Optimized for detecting smoldering fires and heavy smoke conditions
• Integrated LED Strobe Light: Visual alert system for hearing-impaired family members and guests
• 10-Year Sealed Battery Backup: Maintenance-free backup power lasts the entire life of the alarm
• 120V AC Hardwired: Continuous power with automatic battery backup switchover
• Low-Profile Modern Design: Sleek 5.2" diameter fits contemporary home aesthetics
• 85 dB Alarm Horn: Clear, loud audible alert
• Interconnectable System: Connect with up to 24 compatible devices for synchronized alerts
• Tamper Resistant: Security features prevent unauthorized disabling
• Easy Installation: Quick-connect design simplifies setup
• ADA Compliant: Meets accessibility standards for inclusive safety

Best For: Bedrooms, hallways, living areas, homes requiring ADA-compliant smoke detection, families with hearing-impaired members, code compliance.

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Watch Installation Guide on YouTube →

First Alert SC5 Smart Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm (Battery)

Model: SMCO600NV

For locations where hardwiring isn't practical or possible, the battery-powered SC5 delivers the same advanced smart features as its wired counterpart, offering flexibility without compromising on protection or connectivity.

Product Description:

The battery-operated First Alert SC5 brings cutting-edge smart technology to areas where electrical wiring is challenging or unavailable. Perfect for apartments, rental properties, older homes, or as supplemental protection in workshops, this unit operates on long-lasting batteries while providing the same intelligent smoke and CO detection, mobile alerts, and voice warnings as hardwired models. The wireless design doesn't mean sacrificing features—you still get full smartphone integration, Google Home compatibility, and wireless interconnectivity with other SC5 units.

Key Features & Benefits:

• Battery Powered Design: Flexible installation anywhere without electrical work required
• Smart Mobile Notifications: Instant alerts to your smartphone regardless of location
• Voice Alerts with Location: Clear announcements specify the type and room of detected danger
• Dual Smoke & CO Detection: Comprehensive protection against two leading household threats
• Wireless Interconnectivity: Connect multiple SC5 battery units so all alarms sound when one triggers
• Google Home Compatible: Integrates with Google Assistant and Google Home app
• First Alert App Support: Monitor all connected alarms from a single mobile interface
• Precision Detection Technology: Smart algorithms minimize false alarms while maintaining sensitivity
• Easy Battery Replacement: Simple access for maintenance
• No Wiring Required: Perfect for apartments, condos, and rental properties

Best For: Apartments, rental properties, older homes without alarm wiring, garages, workshops, supplemental protection areas

View Product Details →

Watch Setup Tutorial on YouTube →

 

Smoke Detector Comparison Chart

Feature	First Alert SC5 (Hardwired)	BRK SC9120BA	BRK 7030BSLA	BRK 7020BSLA	First Alert SC5 (Battery)
Model Number	FSMCO600NV-AC-A	SC9120BA	7030BSLA	7020BSLA	SMCO600NV
Power Source	120V Hardwired + Battery Backup	120V Hardwired + 9V Battery	120V Hardwired + 10-Year Sealed Battery	120V Hardwired + 10-Year Sealed Battery	Battery Powered
Smoke Detection	✅ Dual Sensor	✅ Ionization	✅ Photoelectric	✅ Photoelectric	✅ Dual Sensor
CO Detection	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	❌ No	✅ Yes
LED Strobe	❌ No	❌ No	✅ 177 Candela	✅ 177 Candela	❌ No
Smart/WiFi	✅ Yes	❌ No	❌ No	❌ No	✅ Yes
Mobile Alerts	✅ Yes	❌ No	❌ No	❌ No	✅ Yes
Voice Alerts	✅ Yes	❌ No	❌ No	❌ No	✅ Yes
Google Home Compatible	✅ Yes	❌ No	❌ No	❌ No	✅ Yes
Interconnectable	✅ Yes (Wireless)	✅ Yes (Hardwired)	✅ Yes (Hardwired)	✅ Yes (Hardwired)	✅ Yes (Wireless)
Alarm Volume	85 dB	85 dB	85 dB	85 dB	85 dB
Battery Life	10-Year Sealed	Replaceable 9V	10-Year Sealed	10-Year Sealed	Long-Life (Replaceable)
ADA Compliant	❌ No	❌ No	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	❌ No
Diameter	Standard	5.58"	5.2"	5.2"	Standard
Installation	Requires Wiring	Requires Wiring	Requires Wiring	Requires Wiring	No Wiring Needed
Best For	Smart home enthusiasts, remote monitoring	New construction, multi-unit buildings	Hearing impaired, accessibility needs	Bedrooms, accessibility needs	Apartments, rentals, flexible placement
Warranty	Limited Warranty	10-Year Limited	Limited Warranty	Limited Warranty	Limited Warranty
Product Link	View Details	View Details	View Details	View Details	View Details

 

Comprehensive Buyer's Guide: Choosing Your Smoke Detector

Understanding Detection Technologies

Ionization vs. Photoelectric Sensors:

Modern smoke detectors use two primary sensing technologies, each optimized for different fire types:

• Ionization sensors (found in the SC9120BA) respond quickly to fast-flaming fires with minimal smoke, such as paper or grease fires. These sensors use a small amount of radioactive material to create an electric current that's interrupted by smoke particles.
• Photoelectric sensors (found in the 7030BSLA and 7020BSLA) excel at detecting slow, smoldering fires that produce heavy smoke before flames appear. These are common in furniture, bedding, and electrical fires. Photoelectric sensors use a light beam that's scattered by smoke particles.

For comprehensive protection, many experts recommend photoelectric sensors for sleeping areas and ionization for kitchens and garages, or combination units that offer both technologies.

Smart Features Worth Having

Mobile Connectivity Benefits:

The First Alert SC5 models showcase how smart technology enhances safety. Mobile alerts mean you're notified of smoke or CO even when away from home, allowing you to call emergency services or check security cameras remotely. Voice alerts eliminate confusion during emergencies by clearly stating "Smoke detected in bedroom" or "Carbon monoxide in basement."

Google Home Integration:

Smart alarm integration with Google Home enables voice control for testing alarms, checking battery status, and receiving announcements through Google smart speakers. This ecosystem approach creates a more responsive, intelligent home safety network.

Accessibility Considerations

LED Strobe Technology:

The BRK 7030BSLA and 7020BSLA models with integrated LED strobes represent key advances in inclusive safety. The 177 candela strobe meets ADA requirements, ensuring that deaf and hard-of-hearing occupants receive immediate visual notification of emergencies. Even for hearing individuals, the strobe provides an additional alert method during sleep or when wearing headphones.

Installation Options: Hardwired vs. Battery

Hardwired Advantages:

• Continuous power with battery backup
• Typically required by building codes for new construction
• Interconnects through home wiring
• No battery replacement for primary power

Battery-Powered Benefits:

• Install anywhere without electrical work
• Ideal for apartments and rentals
• Perfect for supplemental coverage
• Portable between locations

Carbon Monoxide Protection

Every home with fuel-burning appliances (furnace, water heater, fireplace, stove) or rooms near a garage need CO detection. Carbon monoxide is odorless, colorless, and deadly. Combination smoke/CO alarms like all our featured models provide dual protection in a single unit, simplifying installation and reducing costs compared to separate devices.

Interconnectivity Matters

When one alarm detects danger, interconnected systems trigger all alarms simultaneously throughout your home, providing critical extra seconds for evacuation. This is especially important in larger homes or when bedrooms are far from potential fire sources. Both hardwired and wireless interconnection technologies are available across our featured products.

Maintenance & Replacement

10-Year Sealed Battery Technology:

Modern detectors like the BRK 7030BSLA and 7020BSLA feature sealed 10-year lithium batteries that last the life of the alarm, eliminating the frustration of 3am low-battery chirping and ensuring consistent backup protection. When the 10-year lifespan ends, replace the entire unit with a new detector featuring the latest technology.

Regular Testing:

Test all smoke and CO alarms monthly using the test button. This verifies proper operation of sensors, alarms, strobes, and interconnections. Smart alarms often include test reminders through their mobile apps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How many smoke detectors do I need?

A: Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of your home including the basement. For larger homes, install additional detectors to ensure coverage. CO detectors should be placed on every level and near sleeping areas.  Be sure to check local building codes for further requirements.  Additional CO detectors should be installed near furnaces or hot water tanks that use combustion for their heat source.

Q: Can I mix different brands and models?

A: For interconnection, stick with compatible models from the same manufacturer. First Alert and BRK (both made by the same parent company) units are typically compatible within product lines. Smart features work best when all units are the same model.

Q: What's the difference between First Alert and BRK?

A: First Alert and BRK Electronics are both brands owned by the same company (Resideo). BRK typically focuses on professional and contractor-grade products, while First Alert targets retail consumers. Quality and reliability are comparable.

Q: Do I need both smoke and CO detection?

A: Yes. Smoke and carbon monoxide are different threats requiring different sensors. Combination units like all our featured products provide comprehensive protection in one device, meeting both safety needs efficiently.

Q: How often should I replace smoke detectors?

A: In general, CO detectors are meant to be replaced every 5 years while smoke detectors are typically rated for 10 years.  Newer combination units and those with sealed batteries can last 10 years.  When in doubt, replace older alarms and at a maximum of every 10 years, regardless of whether they appear functional as sensor sensitivity degrades over time, reducing effectiveness. 

While not a cheap purchase, smoke detectors are inexpensive over their lifespan and there's no price tag on protecting humans, pets and property.  Units with sealed 10-year batteries make this simple—replace when the low battery signal chirps.

Q: Will smart alarms work during internet outages?

A: Yes. Smart alarms detect smoke and CO and sound their alarms even without internet connectivity. You simply won't receive mobile alerts during the outage. Hardwired interconnection also works without internet.

Q: Are LED strobe alarms only for the hearing impaired?

A: No.  While strobe alarms meet ADA requirements for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals, they benefit everyone. The visual alert helps in noisy environments, when wearing headphones, or for heavy sleepers. They're also valuable in workshops and home gyms.

Q: Can renters install these smoke detectors?

A: Battery-powered models like the First Alert SC5 (SMCO600NV) are perfect for renters, requiring no electrical work or permanent installation. Always check your lease agreement and inform your landlord about safety improvements.

Why Shop Smoke Detectors at Aartech Canada?

Aartech Canada stands out as your trusted Canadian source for home safety equipment for over 20 years:

• Expert Selection: Carefully curated products representing the latest in fire safety technology
• Competitive Pricing: Price matching and bulk pricing ensures you get the best value
• Free Technical Support: Expert assistance with product selection and installation guidance.  As an authorized seller, the manufacturer will be sure to honour their technical support and warranty commitments.
• Fast Canadian Shipping: Quick delivery across Canada with free shipping options available.  Smoke detectors need to be Canadian approved.   Aartech sells Canadian models.
• Easy Returns: Hassle-free return policy for your peace of mind
• Five-Star Service: Committed to customer satisfaction at every step
• Certified:  Aartech sells only Canadian certified smoke and CO detectors so you know you're safe, protected, and in compliance with local codes and insurance.  It's unwise to use life safety devices that aren't Canadian certified.

Explore our complete smoke detector collection or browse related categories including security systems and smart home devices.

Final Thoughts: Invest in Peace of Mind

Replacing old and expired detectors or upgrading to modern smoke and carbon monoxide detectors is one of the most important investments you can make in your family's safety. The products featured in this guide represent the best fire safety technology, offering smart connectivity, accessibility features, and reliable protection that far exceeds basic alarms.

Whether you choose the smart connectivity of the First Alert SC5 series, the dual-threat protection of the BRK SC9120BA, or the inclusive accessibility of the LED strobe-equipped 7030BSLA and 7020BSLA, you're taking a crucial step toward comprehensive home protection.

Don't wait to upgrade your smoke detection system. With easy installation options for both new construction and existing homes, advanced features that integrate with your smart home, and long-lasting designs that minimize maintenance, there's no time like the present and no excuse to neglect home safety.

Ready to upgrade your home's fire safety? Visit Aartech Canada's smoke detector section to explore these products and find the perfect solution for your home. Have questions? Contact our expert support team for personalized recommendations based on your specific needs.

Stay safe, stay protected, and rest easy knowing your home is equipped with the best smoke and carbon monoxide detection technology available.