Gentex PLACE Any Space PL1AS / PL1K As A Replacement For Nest Protect Smoke Detectors
In several weeks of using the Gentex PLACE PL1AS and PL1K smoke detectors they have worked out well with one exception. I thankfully haven't encountered any false alarms like the common reports with the First Alert SC5 units or some of the other models on the market - or with my original Nest Protects a decade ago. But with the Gentex PLACE Kitchen PL1K I did observe an issue with its battery sensor. A week or so into using the PLACE PL1K I began receiving alerts that the battery level was low. This was rather odd with the PLACE detectors coming with batteries pre-installed and AC hard-wired as their main power source. I replaced the batteries anyhow and a few hours later began receiving app notifications and beeps that the battery status was low. Something is wrong there. I ended up returning the PLACE PL1K and replacing it with a new unit. No problems there and no other battery alerts with any of my other PLACE Any Space detectors.
👁 PLACE Any Space low battery alert
Several weeks so far into using the PLACE Any Space Smart Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors, they are working well. Importantly my wife has no issues/concerns with them aside from when there was the battery level mishap with that faulty unit. Given the early criticism for the First Alert SC5 as the Google-endorsed Nest Protect replacement, the PLACE Any Space is similarly-priced and seems like a more reliable bet. But the unit is clunkier than the Nest Protect and the orientation issues and need to replace the power connector compared to the Nest Protect makes it a nuisance if needing to replace multiple smoke detectors.
👁 Expired Nest Protect smoke detectors
In any event for those looking at Nest Protect alternatives or soon needing to find replacement smoke detectors due to the ten year expiration, the Gentex PLACE units look to be one of the better smoke detector options for 2025.
In addition to the PLACE Any Space and PLACE Kitchen, Gentex also has a PLACE Garage Smart Smoke Detector model too that includes a camera. The PLACE Garage smart smoke detector uses heat detection to avoid false alarms from running automobiles or other equipment. It also works in the event of dust, saw dust, or other contaminants in your garage that may cause issues with traditional smoke detectors. Rounding out the current Gentex PLACE product line-up is also the PLACE Nursery detector that provides air quality. carbon monoxide, and smoke detector alarm along with camera capabilities from the app. That one comes in very pricey at $350 USD but also eliminates the need of multiple devices like a baby camera.
👁 PLACE Any Space smoke detector boxes
Hopefully Gentex continues expanding the PLACE home solutions / smart product line-up as well as continuing to enhance the app experience as a suitable alternative to the Nest Protect and leader for smart smoke detectors.
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