What is one benefit of interconnected smoke detectors?

Interconnected smoke detectors offer the significant benefit of providing a unified alert throughout the building. When one detector senses smoke or fire, all interconnected units activate, ensuring that everyone in the building is alerted regardless of their location. This can be crucial in emergency situations where every second counts, as it increases the chances of prompt evacuation and response.

In contrast to this, interconnected systems are not solely dependent on battery power, and while some may operate on battery backup, others can be hardwired to a power source. The cost of interconnected units may vary, and they may not always be cheaper than standalone units, especially when considering installation and the need for more extensive wiring or connectivity. Additionally, while some smoke detectors can also detect carbon monoxide, not all interconnected units do, as they are primarily designed for smoke detection—and a separate carbon monoxide detection system is typically recommended for comprehensive safety.