Smoke, Fire & Gas Detectors

What types of smoke detectors work best?

Optical smoke alarms excel at detecting smouldering fires, like those caused by cigarettes or electrical faults. They're perfect for hallways, bedrooms and living areas where smouldering fires may be more likely. Heat detectors make sense in kitchens and garages where smoke alarms might trigger unnecessarily from cooking fumes or steam.

Modern smoke detectors come equipped with features that enhance their reliability and user-friendliness. Look for units with long-life batteries, test buttons, and interconnected systems that sound throughout your home when one detects smoke.

How often should you test your smoke alarms?

Test your smoke alarms at least every month. Press the test button and listen for that loud, unmistakable beep. If it sounds weak or doesn't work, change the battery immediately. Clean your alarms every six months with a soft brush or vacuum cleaner attachment. Dust and debris can interfere with their sensors. Mains-powered units and battery-powered smoke alarms should be replaced after 10 years, as the sensors start to degrade, affecting the performance of the alarm.

Where should you install smoke alarms?

Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including the basement. Put them in hallways outside bedrooms and sleeping areas. Mount them in the centre of the ceiling, because smoke rises. Avoid placing them near windows, doors or air vents where draughts might interfere with detection.

In larger homes, consider interconnected smoke alarms that communicate with each other. When one detects smoke, they all sound, giving everyone maximum warning time. This is particularly important in multi-storey homes where you might not hear an alarm from another floor.

What about gas detection?

Natural gas detectors alert you to gas leaks before they become dangerous. They're instrumental in kitchens, utility rooms, and other areas where gas appliances are present. Some units detect multiple gas types, providing comprehensive protection in a single device.

How do you choose the right fire detection system?

Consider your home's layout, your family's needs, and your budget. Battery-powered units offer flexibility and easy installation. Mains-powered systems provide continuous protection, eliminating the need to worry about battery life. For comprehensive coverage, combine different detector types throughout your home.

Think about special requirements too. If someone in your household has hearing difficulties, consider vibrating or strobe light alarms. Smart smoke alarms can send alerts to your phone, making them ideal for rental properties or when you're away from home.

Ready to protect your home and family? Browse our complete range of smoke alarms, gas detectors, and fire safety equipment. Every product meets British safety standards, and our expert team is here to help you choose the right protection for your home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who is eligible for free smoke alarms in the UK?

Some fire services across the UK offer free smoke alarms to residents who need them most. You may be eligible if you're over 65, have a disability or live in a high-risk area.

People with mobility issues, sensory impairments, or health conditions that affect their ability to escape in case of fire may qualify for free alarms. Some areas also prioritise low-income families and those in social housing.

Each fire service has its specific criteria, so please contact your local fire station or visit their website for more information. Many offer free home safety visits where they'll assess your needs and install suitable alarms at no cost.

What's the difference between optical and ionisation smoke alarms?

Optical smoke alarms use light sensors to detect smoke particles. They're excellent at spotting slow-burning fires from soft furnishings and are less prone to false alarms from cooking.

Ionisation smoke alarms contain radioactive material and were traditionally used for fires that burn rapidly. However, they're being phased out across the UK due to safety and disposal concerns.

We recommend optical smoke alarms for all locations where ionisation alarms were previously used. They're safer, more reliable, and work just as well for all types of fire.

Where should I install smoke alarms in my home?

You need at least one working smoke alarm on every floor of your home. Install optical smoke alarms in living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways where they can detect smouldering fires.

Don't put smoke alarms in kitchens or bathrooms where steam and cooking fumes cause false alarms. Use heat alarms in kitchens instead - they detect temperature changes without false alarms.

Mount alarms on ceilings in the centre of rooms, at least 30cm from walls and light fittings. This ensures they detect smoke as early as possible.

What's the difference between smoke alarms and heat alarms?

Smoke alarms detect smoke particles in the air and are perfect for living areas where fires typically start slowly. They give you the earliest warning when materials like furniture or wiring begin to smoulder.

Heat alarms detect temperature changes and are ideal for kitchens and garages. They trigger when the temperature reaches approximately 55°C or rises rapidly, thereby avoiding false alarms caused by cooking.

Both types are essential for complete protection. Use smoke alarms throughout your home, and heat alarms in kitchens and garages where smoke alarms would give false alarms.

Do I need carbon monoxide detectors in addition to smoke alarms?

Yes, it is always advisable to have at least one carbon monoxide alarm in your home. This is especially important if you have any fuel-burning appliances such as gas boilers, wood burners or open fires. CO is invisible and odourless but deadly.

Install CO detectors in rooms with fuel-burning appliances and in hallways near bedrooms. Combined smoke and CO alarms can provide dual protection in a single unit.

CO detectors need to be replaced every 5-10 years, depending on the type. Some detectors have sealed batteries that last the life of the device, while others require annual battery changes.

For comprehensive guidance on keeping your home safe from gas-related risks, check out our detailed guide on gas safety for your home.