Radio-Interlinked Smoke Alarms

They are a network of wireless alarms that communicate via radio frequency signals. When one detects smoke, all units in the system sound at the same time. That means everyone in the building gets a warning, no matter which floor they're on or how far away the fire is.

They are a legal requirement in all homes in Scotland since February 2022, for both homeowners and landlords. In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, smoke alarms are required on every floor, but interlinked models are not compulsory, though they are strongly recommended for any multi-room or multi-storey property.

They are often compatible with carbon monoxide alarms from the same manufacturer, allowing for one connected system across your whole home. Stick to the same brand throughout, as alarms from different manufacturers don't usually communicate with each other.

No, you do not need to remove all the batteries. Just simply press the house code button on all the units. Please ensure that the batteries have full power as this could render the house code process incomplete.

Generally, the process for interlinking hardwired alarms is the same. Firstly, you need to make sure that the alarms you are purchasing are compatible with each other, as alarms from different manufacturers (in most cases) do not mix. Dependent on the manufacturer's instructions, you will then be advised to use either a length of bell wire / twin cable to serve as an interlink cable, or 3-core and earth (which is usually adopted in newer installations).

In the same way as interlinking hardwired alarms, it is still crucial to check compatibility between alarms for systems that link wirelessly. The way in which radio-interlinked alarms are connected can differ from brand to brand, however, there will be instructions included with the alarm to guide you through the interlinking process. No signal cables are required between radio-interlinked alarms.

Radio-interlinked or RF smoke alarms use radio-frequency signals to communicate with each other. If one smoke alarm detects a fire, all smoke alarms within that system will receive an RF signal and trigger them to alarm.

Radio-interlinked smoke and heat alarms ensure everyone in a building will hear the fire alarm. They are often used in large houses, rental properties, and can sometimes be used small commercial premises.

This depends purely on the model and manufacturer of the alarm or system you are planning to install. Some models will allow 12 to 15 alarms to connect wirelessly, whereas other newer models can interlink with up to 50 other devices.

Please view our range of Radio-Interlinked Alarm Systems.

To ensure you hear the smoke alarm when it detects a fire you should have radio-interlinked alarms. If one of the alarms detect a fire then all the other alarms in the system will sound which will greatly increase the chance of the occupant hearing the alarm.

If the occupant has a hearing impairment there are fire detection systems for the deaf and hard of hearing that feature strobe lights and vibration pads to ensure the occupant will be alerted in the event of a fire.

All mains powered alarms can be linked, usually by wire, although there are some mains powered alarms that can also interlink wirelessly. There are also a number of alarms that are battery powered but can be wirelessly interlinked so that if one alarm is triggered all the alarms sound.

Radio-interlinked smoke alarms use a radio frequency to communicate with each other, which replaces the signal cable. When the test button is pressed, or the alarm senses smoke, a radio signal is sent from that alarm to all other alarms in the system, triggering them to sound.

Most radio-interlinked systems can connect up to 15 alarms in a single network, providing comprehensive coverage for larger properties with multiple floors and rooms.

Battery-powered radio-interlinked smoke alarms continue operating during power outages, maintaining both detection capability and communication between connected units.

Radio-interlinked smoke alarms typically use manufacturer-specific protocols, so mixing different brands may prevent proper communication - it's best to use alarms from the same manufacturer.

The effective range for radio-interlinked smoke alarms varies by model but typically covers standard domestic properties, with signals penetrating walls and floors for reliable communication.