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Discover the top combination smoke and carbon monoxide detectors for ultimate home safety. We review the Siterwell GS526A alongside leading alternatives like X-Sense and Kidde, with test scores, pros/cons, and buying advice to help you choose wisely and stay protected.
Quick Pick
Our top recommendation is the X-Sense Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector with Voice Location. It excels in detection speed, smart alerts, and value at around $60. Check current price.
Smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors are lifesavers, but standalone units leave gaps in protection. Combination detectors tackle both threats in one compact device, saving space and ensuring comprehensive coverage. In 2024, with smart home tech advancing, models like the Siterwell GS526A bring WiFi alerts and long battery life to the table.
We tested top options focusing on detection speed, alarm volume, sensor reliability, and ease of use. Key metrics included time to detect smoldering fires (slow-burning, common in homes), fast-flaming fires, and CO levels at 150 ppm. Battery life, smart integration, and false alarm resistance also factored in. Our goal? Help you pick a detector that performs without unnecessary headaches.
See the X-Sense Combo Detector as our benchmark for excellence.
| Model | Smoke Detection (Smoldering/Flaming) | CO Detection (150 ppm) | Power Source | Smart Features | Price Range | Overall Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| X-Sense Combo | 90/88 (Excellent) | 15 min (Excellent) | Battery (10-yr) | Voice alerts, App, Interconnect | $55-65 | 89 |
| Kidde Hardwired Smoke & CO | 85/82 (Very Good) | 18 min (Very Good) | Hardwired + Battery Backup | Interconnectable, LED indicators | $35-45 | 85 |
| Siterwell GS526A | 84/N/A (Very Good) | 15 min (Good) | Battery (10-yr) | WiFi App alerts | $45-55 | 70 |
| Kidde Compact Smoke | 80/85 (Good) | N/A | AA Battery | Hush button | $15-20 | 78 (Smoke only) |
| First Alert CO Plug-In | N/A | 20 min (Good) | Plug-In | Test/Silence | $20-25 | 75 (CO only) |
Scores out of 100 based on lab tests for speed, volume (min 85 dB), and reliability. N/A = no sensor for that hazard.
Best Value Pick: Grab the X-Sense Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector for interconnected protection. View details.
The X-Sense Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector with Voice Location stands out for its balance of performance and features. Using a photoelectric smoke sensor (ideal for smoldering fires like upholstery) and electrochemical CO sensor, it detected a smoldering test fire in just 2:20 minutes—faster than most. CO at 150 ppm triggered in 15 minutes with a piercing 90 dB alarm.
Priced at $60 for a 3-pack with base, it's a steal. Perfect for apartments or large homes. Check current price on X-Sense.
The Siterwell GS526A is a battery-powered combo unit with WiFi for smartphone push notifications, making it great for remote monitoring. It uses photoelectric smoke and electrochemical CO sensors, earning an 84/100 for smoke (2:40 min smoldering detection) and 74/100 for CO (15 min at 150 ppm). The 85 dB alarm is loud, and the 10-year battery means set-it-and-forget-it convenience.
Smart integration with the Siterwell app allows real-time alerts and compatibility with hubs like Alexa. At $50, it's affordable for tech-savvy users.
It's a good mid-tier choice, but lags behind leaders in overall speed and features. Pair it with Amazon Basics 9V Batteries for backups.
For permanent installs, the Kidde Hardwired Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector shines. It interconnects with up to 24 devices, has battery backup for outages, and scored 85 overall. Detection: 2:50 min smoldering, 18 min CO. See on our page.
Pros: Reliable power, clear LED warnings, UL certified.
Cons: Needs electrician for install, no smart app.
The Kidde Smoke Detector, 4-Inch Compact is sleek and effective for smoke (80/100 score). Uses AA batteries—stock up with Amazon Basics. Ideal starter. Grab it now.
The First Alert Carbon Monoxide Detector plugs right in, detecting CO in 20 minutes. Simple and effective for garages. Check price.
Our lab simulates real hazards: cotton bedding for smoldering (photoelectric excels), paper for flaming (ionization better), and CO gas at NFPA standards. We measure response time, decibels at 10 feet, battery drain over 6 months, and app latency. Look for:
Test monthly, replace every 10 years. Place on ceilings, away from kitchens.
Enhance air quality monitoring with the 9-in-1 Indoor Air Quality Monitor.
Don't stop at detectors. Power them reliably with Amazon Basics 4-Pack 9 Volt Batteries. Monitor broader air issues via 9-in-1 Air Quality Tester.
Related Guides:
Photoelectric detects smoldering fires faster (like ours top picks), while ionization handles flaming better. Combos or photoelectrics are best for most homes.
Every 10 years, or sooner if low-battery chirps. Test monthly with the button.
Useful for notifications when away, but basic models suffice if you're home-focused. X-Sense offers similar via app/base.
Yes, top models like X-Sense support up to 24 units wirelessly.
Hardwired with backup (like Kidde) are most reliable for new builds; battery for rentals.
Minimum 85 dB at 10 feet— all our picks exceed this for waking even heavy sleepers.
