After my experience installing the OneLink Safe and Sound device, I decided to expand my OneLink configuration by replacing another smoke detector with the OneLink Smoke Detector and the carbon monoxide detector.
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The critical difference between the Smoke Detector and Safe and Sound is the lack of a built-in speaker for AirPlay 2 functionality. Besides, it's exactly the same product. The critical decision is when to use one product over another. If cost isn't a concern, it's nice to have an AirPlay 2 speaker connected to every ceiling in your home, but depending on what products are on sale when you go to buy it, the model with AirPlay 2 might be double cost.
Why a smoke detector connected
There are several types of smoke detectors that you could install in 2020. The first is a traditional wired smoke detector, the second is a battery-powered option, the third is one connected to your security system (even and listening to the sound from your other models), and the fourth is one that is related to your smart home setup.
My house was preamplified by the electrician when I built the house seven years ago, they are all standard electric except for the unique Safe and Sound model we replaced in our bedroom a few years ago, so I plan to replace them all in the next few years slowly. I have a few adode smoke monitors that I use to connect them to my security system, which I know will be monitored by the home monitoring station. I'm going to replace it all however, among the wired ones compatible with HomeKit. In general, I like to replace them all every ten years, so I'm perfect to be able to replace them slowly.
The OneLink installation process
Because everything is pre-wired with modern cables, installation is extremely simple. The first step is to remove the existing smoke detector from the ceiling and disconnect it from the electrical cables. Then I used a Philips head screwdriver to remove the current bracket. Then I screwed up the mounting bracket for OneLink. All that was left of the hardware was to plug it in and then lock it in the console. This process took about 15 minutes from disconnection until it was mounted on the ceiling. If you have older cables that require adapters, this process will take longer, but all those adapters are included in the box.
Once the smoke detector has been turned on, you'll use the OneLink iPhone app to begin the pairing process. As the app is on board the smoke detector, add it to the Home app. This process took only about five minutes.
OneLink HomeKit
Now that the smoke detector is online, that room now has a CO alarm on top of a smoke detector. If the device detects either smoke or CO, I will receive an alert via the Home app and the OneLink app without the need for a monthly fee. If I didn't have a home security system monitored, I would rely on this alert to let me know if I should call the fire department or leave the house due to a CO leak.
Because the smoke detector is in the HomeKit, you can create automations to turn on all your lights and turn on your HomePod if any of the sensors go out at night, so you'll be more likely to wake up and wake up. you hear it.
Wrap up
The first question is the value of this product compared to an offline one and I think it's worth the price. Since I want everything in my house to be on HomeKit, it makes sense to invest in HomeKit compatible fumes. The possibility of remote home check-in is worth the premium price. The second question is whether you buy Safe and Sound on this model. Although I would love to have a Safe and Sound in every room, I don't think it guarantees the cost. I think a mix of the two products will work well for most homes.
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