Factors to Consider When Choosing a Smoke Detector

As you shop Walmart's assortment of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, look for the following.

Sensor: Smoke detectors have one of two types of sensors or a combination.

• Ionization: best for detecting fast-burning fires; great for bedrooms and basements.
• Photoelectric: best for detecting slow-burning fires; great for kitchens, bathrooms and hallways.

Power Source: Choose a battery-powered smoke detector if you want an easy-to-install option. Check and replace batteries every six months. Select a hardwired smoke detector if you don't want to worry about batteries.