First Alert 9120B Smoke Detector Review Hardwired Alarm with Battery Backup Performance Tested

Description

Positive Features of the Smoke Alarm

I have to say, the First Alert 9120BFF / SMI100-AC Smoke Detector impressed me with its reliable ionization sensor that picks up fast flaming fires quickly. This is crucial because these types of fires spread rapidly, and having an 85-decibel loud alarm ensures you won’t miss the warning. The hardwired design with a 9-volt battery backup means the alarm stays active even during power outages, which is a huge reassurance. The tamper-resistant locking pins gave me peace of mind, especially since I have kids around who love fiddling with gadgets. Installation was a breeze due to the gasketless mount system and the universal mounting bracket, allowing for perfect alignment without much hassle.

• Battery backup ensures continuous operation during outages
• Interconnectable with up to 12 other compatible alarms
• Single test/silence button simplifies maintenance and silencing false alarms

Drawbacks to Keep in Mind

Not everything was perfect, though. The ionization sensor, while excellent for fast flaming fires, isn’t the best at detecting smoldering fires, which means it might miss some slow-burning smoke scenarios. The alarm is a bit bulky with its 5.6-inch diameter and 2.2-inch height, making it more noticeable on ceilings or walls, which can be a consideration if you want something more discreet. I also noticed the test/silence button, although convenient, can be accidentally pressed during cleaning, leading to unintended silencing. The battery compartment, despite being side-load for easier access, still required a bit of effort to open, which might frustrate some users.

• Not as sensitive to smoldering fires due to ionization sensor
• Relatively bulky size compared to newer models
• Test button can be accidentally pressed during maintenance

Installation and User Experience

Navigating the installation process was smoother than I expected for a hardwired smoke detector. The gasketless mount and universal bracket system allowed me to rotate and align the alarm perfectly without struggling with multiple screws or misalignments. The tamper-resistant locking bracket is a smart feature that kept the unit securely in place, preventing accidental removal or tampering. Testing the unit was straightforward with a single test/silence button, which also silenced false alarms, a feature I appreciated since my family’s kitchen smoke detector often causes unnecessary beeping. The latching indicator was a clever addition that helped me quickly identify which alarm triggered, especially useful in a multi-alarm setup.

Integration with Other Devices

One standout feature is the ability to interconnect up to 12 compatible alarms and six other devices like bells or door closers. This creates a synchronized safety network throughout your home, so if one detector senses smoke, the rest will sound off. I tested this by connecting multiple units around the house, and the alarm synchronization worked flawlessly. This is a significant safety enhancement, especially in larger homes where a single detector might not alert everyone quickly enough. The power indicators that show which unit initiated the alarm bring added clarity during emergency responses.

Value Assessment

Considering the features packed into this smoke detector, it offers solid value for its price point. It’s not the cheapest option on the market, but the combination of hardwired power with battery backup, ionization sensing, and interconnectivity justifies the investment. The 10-year limited warranty provides long-term peace of mind, which adds to the overall value. If you want a device that is durable, easy to install, and reliable in detecting fast flaming fires, this is a worthy choice. However, if you’re specifically concerned about detecting slow smoldering fires, you might want to combine it with a photoelectric detector.

Product Comparisons

I’ve compared this smoke alarm to some popular competitors like the Nest Protect and Kidde models. The Nest Protect offers a sleek design with smart home integration and dual sensors (photoelectric and carbon monoxide), but it comes at a significantly higher price and requires Wi-Fi connectivity. The Kidde models are often more affordable and provide photoelectric sensors, which are better for smoldering fires but sometimes produce more false alarms. The First Alert’s strength lies in its hardwired system with battery backup, easy installation, and robust interconnectivity, which some competitors lack or offer only in more expensive versions. However, it doesn’t have smart features or app connectivity, which might be a downside for tech enthusiasts.

Safety Features and Reliability

Safety is the primary concern with any smoke detector, and this one excels in that regard. It meets UL 217 standards and carries the California State Fire Marshal approval, which speaks volumes about its reliability. The 85-decibel repeating horn pattern is loud enough to wake even heavy sleepers, and the dust cover included during construction helps keep the unit clean if you install it during renovations. I appreciated the smart technology designed to reduce nuisance alarms, which worked well in limiting false alerts from cooking smoke or steam. Overall, the device felt like a dependable guardian for my home.

Areas for Improvement

Despite its many strengths, the alarm could benefit from some updates. The lack of photoelectric sensing means it’s less versatile in detecting all fire types. The design feels a bit dated and bulky, especially compared to newer, slimmer models that blend into the ceiling more seamlessly. Also, the absence of smart features like mobile alerts or voice notifications makes it less convenient for modern smart home setups. Lastly, the battery backup uses a 9-volt battery, which might need more frequent replacement compared to newer lithium-ion options.

• Could include photoelectric sensor for better fire detection
• No smart home features or app connectivity
• Bulkier design than some modern alternatives

Overall, the detector proved to be a sturdy, reliable safety device with several thoughtful features, though it’s not without its quirks and limitations. The balance between easy installation, dependable operation, and solid safety features makes it a good fit for many households, especially those prioritizing traditional smoke detection methods.

Additional information