Whether you rent or own, these alarms are important to have to keep you and your loved ones safe.
This article contains affiliate links, though BKB is not being paid to promote any items directly. These products are being recommended solely on their knowledge and desire to improve the lives of others.
Ben and I have just celebrated one year in our newest home which we purchased in March of 2022, just weeks before our second son Easton arrived. Over the years, we have found that it’s really easy to want to go above and beyond to secure your home and your loved ones within – whether renting or owning. Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms are life saving devices that have come leaps and bounds over the years. The alarms below are all combination alarms, some hardwired and some battery operated.
At the end of the day, having any alarm is better than none, and if you’re renting, you should know your rights as renters – it’s my understanding that all properties must be installed with proper alarms. Even so, sometimes the alarms we are given just aren’t going to be good enough. The ones below carry high ratings and are easy to install anywhere. You should educate yourself on the difference between hardwired and battery operated alarms, but when-in-doubt, go for battery operated as they’ll work regardless.
First Alert hardwired smoke and carbon monoxide alarm.
With over 3k reviews (4.6 out of 5 rating), this combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarm is one you should be sure to have. You can put your mind to rest knowing you and your loved ones are protected not only from smoke but carbon monoxide as well. This First Alert alarm is hardwired and contains a 10-year backup battery. Be sure to check your wiring to ensure proper connection – in some cases, adapters are required.
This alarm is sold on Amazon for just under $40.
Kidde smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector – hardwired & 10-year backup battery
This Kidde smoke alarm is also hardwired and will detect smoke and carbon monoxide. It also has a 10-year back up battery for extra peace of mind. This easy to install alarm not only sounds at 95 decibels, but also announces the specific threat, “fire” / “warning, carbon monoxide” which is incredibly helpful when you’re looking for the source of danger. I can tell you from first hand experience that these alarms are effective and easy to understand. I particularly like the directions on the back of the device, helping with install and interpretation of warning lights.
This is second on my list because it has less reviews, and the price is higher at around $60.
X-Sense battery powered smoke and carbon monoxide alarm.
For those who don’t have a hardwire system, this alarm is really great! Not only does it have a 10-year battery life, but this alarm tells you the real-time carbon monoxide levels in your home. For those that like to be in the know, this alarm is for you. With 4.7 out of 5 stars, and 3,700 reviews, this X-Sense alarm is great for any home or apartment. You can find it on Amazon for around $40.
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