Protect your home easily with the First Alert SMI100 battery-operated smoke alarm, available in a cost-saving 2-pack. This alarm is simple to install, features a front battery compartment for hassle-free changes, and uses technology that helps cut down on nuisance cooking alarms. While it delivers dependable early warning for home fires, keep in mind some users have reported mixed results with battery life and the alarm's volume. Designed for convenience and sensitive detection, it’s a useful upgrade for basic household safety.
Reality Check
First Alert SMI100 is a battery-operated smoke alarm sold in a convenient 2-pack, designed for straightforward home fire protection. With its advanced sensing technology aimed at minimizing nuisance alarms—especially those triggered by cooking—it offers front-access battery compartments for easy battery changes, and includes features such as a test/silence button and end-of-life alert. The ease of installation is a major selling point, with users noting that mounting with double-sided tape is quick and simple.
Here’s the reality: while the device is dependable for early fire detection and reduces false alarms from everyday activities, customer feedback repeatedly flags inconsistent battery life as the main issue. Some units last nearly a decade, but others need replacing after just a few months. This can be frustrating if you’re looking for a “set it and forget it” solution, as unexpected battery changes could mean less consistent protection. If reliability over time is crucial, that’s something to think about before buying.
Best For: Homeowners or renters wanting an easy-to-install, affordable smoke alarm for quick peace of mind
Not Recommended For: Anyone who needs rock-solid battery reliability without frequent maintenance
What Customers Say
Customers find the smoke alarm to be of good quality and easy to install, particularly appreciating the double face tape for mounting. Moreover, they consider it an excellent value for essential home protection. However, the battery life receives mixed feedback, with some units lasting 10 years while others stop working after 6 months. Additionally, the alarm frequency and sound level are problematic, with customers reporting it going off randomly and being too loud for comfort. The test accuracy is also mixed, with some units testing well while others fail.
Key Features
- First Alert’s Precision Detection advanced sensing technology complies with new industry standards to reduce cooking nuisance alarms and provides early warning in the event of a home fire emergency
- Battery-operated alarm allows for easy installation and maintenance
- Front access battery compartment makes for easy battery replacements
- End-of-life warning lets you know when it’s time to replace the alarm
- Test/silence button for efficient testing to ensure alarm is working properly
