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Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Protect your home, family and peace of mind with our smoke alarms, heat alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
Whether you're looking for battery-powered or mains alarms, we stock trusted brands like Nest with features such as test buttons, silence buttons and wireless connectivity.
Designed to detect rising temperature, smoke or harmful gases, these essential units offer reliable protection that complies with current British Standards.
From flats to family homes and business premises, discover the right alarm system for your space and shop online today.
Nest Protect 2nd Generation Smoke and CO Detector (Wired)
FAQs
How many smoke alarms do I need?
To meet fire safety guidelines, it’s recommended to install one alarm per level of your house or flat, ideally positioned on the ceiling in hallways and near bedrooms.
For enhanced protection, use a combination of smoke alarms, heat alarms, and carbon monoxide detectors throughout the property.
What is the difference between smoke alarms and heat alarms?
The key difference between smoke alarms and heat alarms lies in how they detect a fire. Smoke alarms use either an optical or ionisation sensor to sense smoke particles in the air, making them ideal for bedrooms, lounges and hallways.
In contrast, a heat alarm (also known as a heat detector) is triggered when a room rises above a certain temperature threshold – typically around 54°C to 70°C. This makes heat alarms more suitable for rooms prone to cooking fumes or burnt toast, such as kitchens, utility rooms, garages or bathrooms.
By using a heat sensor rather than smoke detection, heat alarms help prevent false alarms caused by everyday activities like frying or showering. This reduces nuisance alarms and false activations, ensuring you only get alerted when there’s a genuine risk of fire.
While smoke alarms and heat alarms serve different purposes, it’s often best to install both as part of a full alarm system for your house. Some models even feature dual functionality, combining both smoke and heat detection in one unit.
Many options are now mains powered with battery back-up, or wireless for simple installation, and some offer smart phone alerts, self-test features and long alarm warranties, including up to a 10-year warranty for extra peace of mind.
Always check that your alarms are compliant with the latest legal requirements and choose from a trusted range of models and accessories.
Should I choose battery or mains alarms?
Battery-powered alarms are easy to install and ideal for retrofitting, while mains alarms are hardwired into your home’s power and often include a backup battery. Both types must carry a safety mark and meet current British Standards.
What features should I look for in a smoke alarm system?
Look for alarms with a test button, silence button, and long-life battery or warranty. Some models include wireless interconnection, meaning if one alarm is triggered, all units will sound. This is particularly helpful in larger homes or for vulnerable users.
Why is regular testing of alarms essential?
Regular testing ensures your alarms are working properly. Most models feature a test button for quick checks. Replacing filters, keeping units dust-free and checking batteries can save lives and support fast escape in case of a fire.
Where should I install smoke or heat alarms?
Smoke alarms should be installed on the ceiling in living areas, hallways and bedrooms. Heat alarms are ideal for kitchens or bathrooms and should also be ceiling-mounted. Always follow installation guidelines and manufacturer advice for best results.
How do carbon monoxide alarms work?
A carbon monoxide alarm continuously monitors the air in your home for traces of carbon monoxide gas, a colourless, odourless and poisonous gas. If dangerous levels are detected, the alarm will sound to alert you so you can ventilate the room with fresh air and leave the property quickly.
Why do I need a carbon monoxide detector in my home?
Carbon monoxide is produced when fuel-burning appliances like boilers, gas appliances, or fires don't burn fossil fuels completely. A carbon monoxide detector is a vital safety device to help prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, especially in sleeping areas or near older appliances and blocked chimneys.
Can carbon monoxide alarms give false alarms?
While rare, a false alarm can happen due to steam, high humidity, or low batteries. Always follow the user manual and manufacturer's instructions to ensure the alarm is installed correctly and tested regularly. If your alarm keeps beeping, it could be a warning to replace the battery or the unit itself.
Where should CO detectors be installed in the home?
CO detectors should be installed near bedrooms or in any room with gas appliances or fuel-burning appliances. Place them at head height – not on the ceiling like a smoke alarm – and avoid putting them too close to windows or vents where airflow might affect the reading.
How often should I replace carbon monoxide alarms?
Most carbon monoxide alarms have a lifespan of 5 to 10 years. Check your battery backup regularly and refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended replacement cycle to ensure your detectors are always working properly.
Got a question we haven't answered here? Explore our full range of smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms, or speak to our team who will be happy to help.