The Kidde KN-COSM-BA is a wireless smoke and carbon monoxide detector which fully operates on battery power. Simply put, it does not require a connection to your home’s electrical system. It also comes with a voice alarm which speaks out whenever the unit detects a threat.
The Kidde KN-COSM-BA Detects Smoke and Carbon Monoxide
A feature that is missing within the Kidde KN-COSM-BA is photoelectric smoke detection. There are other detectors that is able to sense smoldering fires before they have ignited. This smoke detector is equipped with a different type of technology which is called ionization smoke detection. While it could not detect fires before they ignite, it does a better job at detecting the presence of flaming fires.
The unit is equipped with dual-sensor capability which is a feature shared with some of the higher-end detectors out in the market. With this feature, it has a better and more comprehensive coverage of detecting dangers concerning smoldering and raging fires. Still, it is recommended to use this device in conjunction with a photoelectric detector to get an even better coverage.
Since the Kidde KN-COSM-BA Smoke Alarm is battery-powered, it operates independently. Hence, it wouldn’t matter if your area has a power outage, this unit will still be able to function properly. However, there is a caveat with this battery-powered smoke detector – it is unable to interconnect with other smoke detectors. Therefore, if one area of the property starts to go on fire and this smoke detector is located in the other side of the house, and there is a different detector inside blazing room, then the KN-COSM-BA won’t sound its alarm at the same time with the other device. Therefore, this increases the risk of not being able to hear the other installed detector which may be far from your general living or sleeping areas.
Should the alarm be tripped, there is a single button on the main face which silences the alarm if it is tripped. You can also use the same button to test the alarm if it is functioning properly. There will be a voice alarm and an LED that will light up whenever the battery is low.
For what it’s worth, the Kidde KN-COSM-BA is a great smoke alarm in itself. However, its inability to work in conjunction with other hardwired smoke detectors makes this one hard to recommend. To get the most protection, it is recommended to purchase a CO detector, or one a unit that has both functionalities and can work well with other smoke detectors.