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Smoke Alarms

Smoke alarms are crucial in domestic households to provide early detection of fires and ultimately save lives. Our smoke alarms provide a rapid response to slow smouldering fires alerting residents to the danger quickly. 

Aico is the European Market Leader in Home Life Safety, delivering the highest quality smoke alarms. Every alarm in our range is individually tested, meets UK standards and offers a variety of sensor types to guarantee protection for every home. From battery to mains-powered Smoke Alarm systems, our products offer quick and simple installation with options for easi-fit bases and wireless interconnection.

Not sure which alarm to choose? Read our guide on alarm types.

Smoke Alarm FAQs

Your questions answered. Browse our FAQs to find the information you are looking for.

Do you need an electrician to install a smoke alarm?

Whether you need an electrician to install a smoke alarm in your property depends on the type of alarm:

  • Mains-powered (hardwired) smoke alarms must be installed by a qualified installer. These are wired into the property’s electrical system and are often required for compliance with building regulations in rented or new-build properties.
  • Battery-powered smoke alarms, including sealed long-life (10-year) units, do not require installation from an electrician. However, they must still be installed correctly in the right locations to be effective and compliant.

Using a professional installer ensures compliance and reduces liability. Find a local installer today. 

Which type of smoke alarm is best?

The best type of smoke alarm depends on its purpose and where it is installed.

  • Optical smoke alarms are best for detecting slow smouldering fires and are less prone to nuisance alarms from cooking fumes, making them ideal for living areas and hallways. 
  • Ionisation alarms are sensitive to small smoke particles but are more likely to trigger nuisance alarms near kitchens.

A combination of optical smoke alarms and heat alarms, especially when interlinked, provides reliable protection throughout properties. 

What are the 2 types of smoke alarms?

The two types of smoke alarms are: Ionisation Alarms and Optical (Photoelectric) Alarms. Each type of alarm uses a different technology to detect fires.

Is there a smoke alarm for the hearing-impaired?

Yes. For individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, there are specially designed accessories. These accessories include vibrating pads, strobe lights, or pager systems instead of (or alongside) traditional audible alerts.

Some systems can be interlinked with standard smoke or heat alarms, ensuring that if any alarm in the property is triggered, the alert reaches the person with hearing loss effectively.

View our full range of fire alarm accessories for the hard-of-hearing

 

Do I need a smoke alarm or a heat alarm?

For full compliance with British Standards and to ensure safety, it is recommended to install a mix of smoke and heat alarms throughout the property. 

However, deciding if you need a smoke alarm or a heat alarm is entirely dependent on the location within the property you are looking to protect. Smoke alarms are required in living rooms, hallways, landings, and bedrooms to detect smouldering. Whereas heat alarms are recommended in kitchens, garages, or areas where smoke or dust may cause nuisance alarms, as they detect a temperature rise as opposed to smoke. 

Do smoke alarms expire?

Smoke alarms generally have a recommended lifespan of 8-10 years. All of Aico’s Smoke Alarms last 10 years and a selection come fitted with a rechargeable lithium battery.

How to install smoke alarms?

To install smoke alarms, choose strategic locations near bedrooms and common areas, ensuring they are properly mounted on walls or ceilings as per the manufacturer’s instructions. We have a comprehensive guide on how to install smoke alarms available complete with video instructions.

How many smoke alarms do I need?

It is recommended to have smoke alarms installed in every bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on every level of the home, including the basement. You can find out more in our comprehensive guide on where to place smoke alarms here.

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Find your nearest fire alarm distributor

Find authorised alarm product distributors and fire alarm distributors across the UK. Use our online search tools to find your nearest stockist and get the right Aico alarm for your next installation.

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Can’t find what you’re looking for?

Email enquiries@aico.co.uk for more information