Smoke Alarms
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Smoke alarms
According to CHOICE (Australian Consumers' Association), studies show photoelectric smoke alarms
Types of smoke alarms
There are three types of smoke alarms, ionisation, photoelectric, and dual-sensor alarms which contain both ionisation and photoelectric detection methods.
- Ionisation Alarms
- In an ionisation alarm, a very small and harmless radioactive material produces a current. The alarm monitors the current and when the current is interrupted by smoke, the alarm goes off.
- This alarm is best at detecting fires with high flames, such as those caused by flammable liquids. They do not do well with smoky, smouldering fires -- the most common household fire.
- Should be positioned away from kitchens and bathrooms because their sensitivity to fumes can cause false alarms.
- This type of alarm usually has a radiation symbol on the back of the model.
- Cost $12 or less.
- Photoelectric Alarms
- Photoelectric alarms use a beam of light instead of an electric current to detect fires. When there is enough smoke in the alarm to deflect the beam of light, the alarm goes off.
- These alarms are good at detecting smoky, smouldering fires, such as those caused by burning bedding materials.
- Be sure to have at least one of this type of alarm in your house -- preferably near sleeping areas.
- Generally more expensive, usually costing around $34.
- Dual-Sensor Alarms
- Generally regarded as the best kind of alarm, a dual sensor gives you the advantages of both sensors.
- Often, dual-sensor alarms are less expensive than buying each kind of alarm separately.
- Regarded as the safest option for all-purpose home use.
- Kidde Australia
Where to install them
- Alarms should be on or near the ceiling away from dead air spaces such as corners.
- If you have one alarm, install it in a common area, such as a hallway connecting the living area with the bedrooms. Otherwise, install an alarm in each bedroom and on each level of the house.
- Interconnected alarms give the best protection. These alarms will all sound if one alarm detects smoke. This is something to consider because children and the elderly sometimes won't wake to the sound of a smoke alarm in another room.
- Use a photoelectric alarm near the kitchen because it is less likely to give false alarms.
- If you have to put the alarm on a wall, make sure it is between 30cm and 50cm below the ceiling.
Powering your smoke alarm
- Battery Operated
- If you opt for a battery-operated smoke alarm, you have to be sure to change the batteries every six months.
- 10-year lithium batteries are usually pre-installed and will likely provide power for the life of your smoke alarm (10 years).
- House Wiring
- Another option is to buy alarms that are hard-wired into your home's electrical system.
- These alarms can sometimes be networked together, so that if one goes off, they all go off.
- House Wiring with Battery Backup
- The combination gives you the security that even if the power is out, your smoke alarms will still work.
- Whichever type of alarm you choose, alarms need to be replaced every ten years because they wear out over time.
- Most newer alarms have the date stamped on them, so you know when they need to be replaced.
Alarm standards and features
- Most alarms will come with the following, but it is always good to double-check.
- Chirp warning for a low battery.
- A test button and false alarm silence button.
- Hinged cover for easy cleaning -- excess dust can interfere with alarm function.
- Standards Australia or (SSL) Certification AS 3786 -- only buy alarms that meet this standard.
- Some alarms may have additional special features:
- Flashing strobe -- for the hearing-impaired, this smoke detector also includes an alarm. Better Hearing Australia has a guide to smoke alarm devices for the hearing impaired.
- Escape lighting -- to help you find your way out of the house in an emergency.
- Voice alarm -- some studies have suggested that young children can sleep through your average smoke alarm, but will wake quickly to the recorded sound of their parents.
- Check out the KidSmart Vocal Smoke Alarm
- Keep in mind that the KidSmart Alarm is a photoelectric alarm only; consider buying a separate ionisation alarm to go along with it.
- Combination Smoke and CO detector -- some sources suggest buying a separate CO detector rather than a combination unit because the combined unit is not as effective.
Maintenance tips
- Test each alarm once a month to ensure the alarm is still working.
- Vacuum the surface of the alarm about once every six months to keep dust from interfering with the mechanism.
- Change batteries at least once a year (except if you're using the pre-installed lithium batteries). Even hard-wired systems have battery back ups, which require annual replacing.
- Replace your smoke alarms every 10 years.
Major manufacturers of smoke alarms certified to AS3786
Related products
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External links
- CHOICE Magazine: Australia Consumers' Association magazine article on shopping for a smoke alarm.
- Beauty Salon: For what buyers had to say about the KidSmart Vocal Smoke Alarm.
- Fire Protection Association of Australia: Information and services on protecting lives, assets and the environment from the threat of fire.
- Home Fire Safety Tips: A comprehensive guide to preparing your house and family for an unexpected fire.
- How Stuff Works -- how smoke alarms work.
- Recalls -- check here to see if any of your smoke alarms have been recalled. (Australia Competition and Consumer Commission)