Years ago, somewhere I bought a smoke detector with a built-in light (like this, in concept). Although (thankfully) we've never needed to rely on it, I liked that it was there, so when we needed to add a new detector, I looked for something similar. I chose this one partly based on the CR reviews of similar First Alert models, and partly based on availability and price here at Amazon.
The older detector has a pretty bright light when I test it, and I was expecting something similar when I ordered this one (the SA304CN3). Well, this one's light is rather small by comparison and didn't seem terribly bright during testing.
Like anybody shopping for such an item, I try to imagine possible scenarios. With no smoke, in a pitch black house, it would help, especially if the power is out. But one assumes there might be smoke, in which case the light's range would be more limited. So I don't think of it as "lighting the way out" all the way to the door.
Instead, I figure the presence of even this dim light in the haze might help you locate a stairwell (if you mount it there) which would get you that much closer to the exit. So, I'm thinking of it more like a small beacon than an actual lamp.
Other stuff: First Alert seems to have a problem writing clear instructions for mounting these things (I bought two different FA models). To their credit, they give good advice about where to place the detectors within the home. But after that, they gloss over the details of measuring and drilling holes for the supplied wallboard anchors and screws, and stuff that some people might need help with.
And while some obvious stuff is barely mentioned, they go to huge length about (for example) installing security pins in the base and the battery compartment. I'm wondering, who is buying these things for a private home and worrying so much about tampering? I was halfway through these laborious instructions before I saw the explanation that, if you don't have a security problem, you can skip all the business about the locking pins. Phew!
The self-test works as expected, and in two weeks of use, no false alarms so far. I realize that's not much feedback for shoppers hoping for longterm results, but I wanted to post this to describe the light feature, and the installation instructions. Also note, this is an ionization detector. For the most important spot (near the bedrooms) I installed a dual-technology detector First Alert SA302CN Double Sensor Battery-Powered Smoke and Fire Alarm, which has no light but which should react to any kind of fire or smoke. I figure, cover all the bases, which is how the lighted model fits in to the overall plan.
My personal bottom line for this one is that the installation is easy IF you have ever installed something on the wall of your home and figure it out. Drill two holes, screw on the base, and the detector slides easily onto the base. You have to make sure the battery goes into its holder in the right position, or the unit will not close up. I like that feature, after being a bit confused by it at first.
As for the light: I don't know if it will make a difference in a true fire/smoke emergency, but I like having it just in case. Presumably the light would drain battery slightly faster than the alarm alone, but not by much. That's probably why they didn't put a brigher lamp in it, so I would not worry about the alarm performance. Put it this way: if it detects a genuine fire emergency and goes off, you better be out of the house long before the alarm ever drains the battery...
Slight points off for the light being not quite as bright as I expected, and for the instructions needing a bit more clarification. Otherwise I'm happy with it. First Alert SA304CN3 Smoke Alarm with Escape Light
Have had now for a year or so. Placed two of these near the stairs(upstairs and basement) in my home to help light the way out in a fire. Placed two others that work by a different mechanism beside these also. The one near the basement stairs has gone off twice due to my furnace needing to be cleaned and making some smoke. The other highly rated one beside it did not go off. (Furnace man is getting an F for effort). Seems to work well.
Amazon is sending a replacement due to the escape light not functioning upon arrival. Will see if the replacement experiences the same issue.
Update:
Second unit has the same issue. Horrible build quality.
I was searching for a smoke alarm for my house, i did my reaserch, of course i was looking for one that was affordable as well, so i came up with this one, i read the reviews and i decided to purchase this product, It was extremely easy to install, and once i installed it, i tested it as well with the test button on the smoke alarm, And So far it works Greattt for me!!!!I hope it stays this way though. But if you ask for my review, so far i would recommend this product for anyone who is looking for a smoke alarm at a reasonable price! - Smoke Alarms - Smoke Detector'
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