Smoke alarms
We tested 20 models to see which respond fastest to smoke.
Goldair
GS-526
recommended
Avg price
$20
Test results
- 60Ease of use
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How we test
Overall score is based on smouldering and flaming fire sensitivity.
“Good” or “OK” meant the alarm sounded quickly enough to alert you to danger.
“Poor” meant the alarm took significantly longer to sound.
“Extreme” sensitivity meant the alarm sounded so quickly they are more likely to issue false alarms.
Ease of use includes instructions and ease of installation.
See "About our test" for more information.
Noise is measured in a quiet room 3m from the alarm.
Price is from a March 2018 price survey.
More test results
- Smouldering fire sensitivity
Good
- Flaming fire sensitivity
Good
Model
- Avg price
$20
- Alarm type
Photoelectric
- Noise (dBA)
93
- Battery type
Sealed lithium
- Size
Standard
Features
- Battery life (years)
10
- Alarm life (years)
10
- Warranty (yrs)
1
- Hush period (min)
10
- Carbon monoxide alarm
- Alarms can be linked
- Voice alerts
More info
- Notes
-
- Availability
-
Goldair GS-526
Pros
None.
Cons
After 2 years the alarm started going off intermittently in the middle of the night. Had to get the ladder out, remove the alarm and disconnect the battery at 4.00am.
Recommend it?
No, this product has too many drawbacks.
Tim M.
Used 6 months or more