Fire/Smoke Detectors

Raistlin · 27-10-2009, 11:27

In our house we have two linked smoke detectors which are mains powered. They're probably 10-15 years old and so in need of replacement.

1. Would I be better replacing the existing mains ones with new mains ones, or would I be better disconnecting the mains connections and replacing with battery powered ones?

2. Can anybody recommend decent mains or battery detectors dependent on their answer to the question above?

Thanks

SnoopZ · 27-10-2009, 11:34

In my house my 3 smoke alarms are mains and battery operated so best of both worlds. I've no clue what make they are but they are 12 years old now and are regularly tested when i make toast!

**Rob** · 27-10-2009, 11:44

You should really have mains powered (mains usually has a battery backup for power outages). Battery only powered would be a downgrade. The mains powered ones would have met Building Regulations standards at the time of install and may possibly be linked so that if one is triggered both would sound so that you hear it clearly throughout the house. These things can be a nuisnace with toast and stuff but remember you want them to be clearly heard in bedrooms to wake you from your slumber. I don't know of battery only detectors that are linkable.

Osem · 27-10-2009, 12:17

Can't answer as to which is best but we have battery powered smoke alarms in every room in our house and a carbon monoxide alarm in our front room. These things are cheap and effective so aside from what you do with the mains powered option, I'd recommend you (and anyone else) to have every room alarmed. The only issue we have is the kitchen alarm going off periodically when we're cooking but since it's not hard wired, all we do is move and replace it as required.

haydnwalker · 27-10-2009, 21:27

Our Fire Brigade/Council are giving them out for free, with 10year guaranteed batteries (Lithium Ion I think).

Might be worth contacting your local fire safety team to see if they would give you them for free...As once the batteries run out they should replace them...

**Kymmy** · 27-10-2009, 21:30

Just 2??

Ionization or optical...or even better a mixture with the optical in/near the kitchen and one near the escape route with a light

Hom3r · 27-10-2009, 21:35

I'e heard of a company called Kidde they do household (airlines as well)

http://www.kiddesafetyeurope.co.uk/u...Id=401,00.html

I would replace like for like.

I would buy the type thats mains wired and if one goes of they all go off.

Matthew · 27-10-2009, 23:19

Mains powered ones are best. Check with your local FRS who can provide a free home fire safety check and will provide smoke alarms if need be, they can also advise if they located correctly.

More information can be found here.