First Alert Z-Wave Smoke Detector & Carbon Monoxide Alarm
Quick Verdict
Z-Wave smart homes, renters or multi-room setups and vacation homes that want remote smoke+CO alerts and automation integration
backpacking or outdoor use, unconditioned environments outside 40–100°F, or users who want a standalone Wi‑Fi alarm without a hub
Key Specifications
About This Gear
The First Alert detector offers peace of mind by detecting smoke and carbon monoxide. Its Z-Wave compatibility allows integration into smart home systems. Some users have reported false alarms, which can be disruptive.
Pros & Cons
Synthesized from expert reviews and user feedback
What People Love
8 positive findingsCombined photoelectric smoke and electrochemical CO detection in one unit (saves space and cost vs separate units)
Most reviewersZ-Wave Plus integration lets alarms send events to hubs/apps and be included in automations
Most reviewersPhotoelectric smoke sensor reduces many cooking false alarms while remaining sensitive to smoldering smoke
Most reviewersBattery powered (2×AA) for easy install without wiring
Most reviewers
Things to Consider
6 considerationsOccasional false alarms reported by several users on forums
Most reviewersRequires a Z-Wave hub (no direct Wi‑Fi), adding complexity/cost if you don't already have one
Most reviewersNo built-in wireless interconnect — other units won't auto-link unless configured via hub automations
Most reviewersRelatively large/heavy for a consumer alarm (Ø5.0" × 2.0", ~8.4 oz) — not portable-friendly
Some reviewers
Weather & Conditions
How this gear performs across different environments and seasons
Temperature Range
Designed for normal indoor household climates; avoid use below 40°F or above 100°F or in direct weather exposure
Weather Performance
Climate Suitability
Excels In
- indoor Z-Wave smart-home environments
- moderate indoor temperatures
- coastal/temperate homes within operating range
Limitations
- not recommended for outdoor or tent use
- must remain within 40–100°F and non-condensing humidity limits
- requires indoor mounting away from direct water exposure
What People Are Saying
Aggregated insights from expert reviews and user feedback
Users generally appreciate the Z-Wave integration, dual hazard sensing, and easy installation; the most common complaints are occasional false alarms and the requirement for a Z-Wave hub.
What Users Love
- easy setup
- integration with Z-Wave hubs and mobile alerts
- dual smoke+CO sensing
- reliable certifications and loud alarm
Common Concerns
- false alarms reported on forums
- requires compatible Z-Wave hub (no Wi‑Fi)
- no direct interconnect between units
- No widespread early failures reported; typical end-of-life around 8–10 years
- Some long-time owners reported stable performance until normal EOL chirp
runs large
7-year limited warranty; no recent recall for this model and limited public data on claim experiences
Expert Reviews
Highlights Z-Wave Plus and certified compatibility; notes benefits for Z-Wave systems but calls out lack of built-in interconnectRead full review →
Notes straightforward pairing and mobile alerting when used with compatible hubs; documents battery/notification behaviorRead full review →
4.3/5 from thousands of reviews indicating generally satisfied buyersRead full review →
Care & Maintenance
Keep your gear performing at its best with these tips
Maintenance Tips
Keep it in top condition- test monthly using the test button
- replace 2×AA batteries when the unit chirps low-battery
- vacuum around the sensor chamber periodically and avoid placing near steam sources
- use tamper-lock pins to prevent accidental removal
Watch Out For
Known issues to monitor- false alarms from dust, insects, steam or positioning
- battery leakage if left on dead batteries too long
- end-of-life sensor chirp after ~8–10 years requiring full unit replacement
Alternatives to Consider
Compare with similar products that might better fit your needs
Nest Protect
- Wi‑Fi (no Z-Wave hub needed)
- built-in voice/location alerts
- 10-year sealed battery (no AA swaps)
when you prefer Wi‑Fi/Google Home integration and a sealed 10-year battery rather than Z-Wave
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this gear