The best smoke detectors in the UK 2023

The smoke detector is an essential accessory for every household in a country where domestic fires rage and cause thousands of victims per year. It gives you serenity at night and during the day thanks to its automatic alert programming at the slightest whiff of suspicion. So, don't hesitate to follow us in this buying guide, we offer you the best smoke detectors of the year that you absolutely must have at home.

Siemens Delta Reflex 5TC1292-1 1
9/10

Best value for money

Siemens Delta Reflex 5TC1292-1

The best smoke detector in 2021

Maximize your chances of surviving nighttime fires by installing the Siemens Delta Reflex 5TC1292-1 in your home, a fire safety compliant device that ensures reliability.

19,60 £ on Amazon

Thanks to its screw-in system, the Siemens Delta Reflex 5TC1292-1 can be fixed in a stable manner in the place you have chosen to install it. Its thermal sensor and its optical detector are formidable indicators that quickly warn you of the slightest smoke at any time.

Its 85 dB alarm is quite audible and draws your attention as soon as the alert is triggered. For convenient programming, the ergonomic test and pause button is easy to operate. The device with a 5-year warranty monitors your home and gives you security and peace of mind every day. It complies with current European safety standards.

X-Sense SD 13 2
8/10

Best value for money

X-Sense SD 13

The best entry-level smoke detector

You can still get a high-quality smoke detector at a low price: we have chosen for you the X-Sense SD 13, which is extremely sensitive and has intelligent functions.

13,59 £ on Amazon

Equipped with an ultra-modern photoelectric sensor and an intelligent electronic chip, the X-Sense SD 13 quickly and accurately identifies the degree of danger of any unusual smoke emission. The system is powered by a very durable li-ion battery (up to 10 years). You will be protected every day and at any time without risk of interruption on the operation of the device.

Moreover, the X-Sense SD 13 is constantly self-monitoring, providing you with essential information: possible errors on alerts, battery level, etc. The material used in its manufacture, high quality ABS, is renowned for its fireproof, durable and corrosion-resistant nature. With a device like the X-Sense SD 13 in your home, you can rest assured.

Bosch Smart Home 8750000287 3
7/10

Best value for money

Bosch Smart Home 8750000287

The best high-end smoke detector

Invest in a brand with a sure value, opt for the Bosch Smart Home 8750000287 smoke detector of remarkable reliability and speed.

59,99 £ on Amazon

Whether you occupy your home or not, the Bosch Smart Home 8750000287 remains useful in all circumstances. At the slightest release of smoke, the signal is quickly activated to awaken your reactivity: locally through the siren and remotely through a push notification that you will receive in real time on the application that links your smartphone to the device.

And enjoy the dual function of this Bosch Smart Home 8750000287 smoke detector that also alerts you in case of intrusion into your home. The signal range is particularly suitable for medium-sized areas. The device comes with all the necessary installation hardware for quick mounting.

Elro FS1805 4
8/10

Excellent selection

Elro FS1805

The best alternative

Among the best smoke detectors, there is still the Elro FS1805 with proven effectiveness and ultra easy installation thanks to its magnetic fixing mechanism.

14,39 £ on Amazon

The Elro FS1805 warns you at the right time as soon as it detects an unusual smoke emanation. As for its technical performance, the Elro FS1805 does quite well with its very responsive optical sensor, its ergonomic test button and its timely battery level indicator. But moreover, it has a very practical magnetic mounting system for a quick and easy attachment.

For optimal use, the brand recommends regular cleaning of this smoke detector. However, the use of detergents is not recommended for this type of device: it should rather be regularly vacuumed to get rid of dust residues.

Buying guide • November 2023

Best smoke detector

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The best smoke detector in 2021

The best entry-level smoke detector

The best high-end smoke detector

The best alternative

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Comparison table of the best smoke detectors

TOP OF THE TOP CHEAP TOP OF THE LINE EXCELLENT
Siemens Delta Reflex 5TC1292-1 5
9/10
X-Sense SD 13 6
8/10
Bosch Smart Home 8750000287 7
7/10
Elro FS1805 8
8/10
OUR SELECTION
Siemens Delta Reflex 5TC1292-1
X-Sense SD 13
Bosch Smart Home 8750000287
Elro FS1805
Maximize your chances of surviving nighttime fires by installing the Siemens Delta Reflex 5TC1292-1 in your home, a fire safety compliant device that ensures reliability.
You can still get a high-quality smoke detector at a low price: we have chosen for you the X-Sense SD 13, which is extremely sensitive and has intelligent functions.
Invest in a brand with a sure value, opt for the Bosch Smart Home 8750000287 smoke detector of remarkable reliability and speed.
Among the best smoke detectors, there is still the Elro FS1805 with proven effectiveness and ultra easy installation thanks to its magnetic fixing mechanism.
Operation
Equipped with thermal sensor and optical detector
Equipped with ultra-modern photoelectric sensor and intelligent electronic chip
Connected Smoke Detector
High quality optical sensor with smoke detector
Type of installation
Screw-in 85 dB alarm
In screw or with magnetic support
In screw or adhesive
Screwless, magnetic mounting
Noise level
EN 14604 with CE marking
Alarm of 85 dB
85 dB alarm
85 dB alarm
Compliance with standards
2 AA batteries included
EN 14604 with TÜV certification
EN 14604 with Q label
EN14604
Power supply
Irreplaceable Lithium-Ion battery guaranteeing 10 years of use
Lithium battery
Lithium-Ion battery

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Buying guide - smoke detector

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How to choose your smoke detector

Fires happen every day, and 38% of these fires are believed to start in the living room or dining room. If you have smoke alarms in your home, you'll have a better chance of getting everyone out safely. But for maximum safety, there are a few things to consider when buying a new smoke alarm.

#1 - CE and NF markings

The smoke detector is an essential device to prevent the risks of fire. French legislation therefore requires compliance with CE and NF quality standards, which attest to their reliability. Visible on the packaging, these standards are European requirements guaranteeing the reliability and durability of the product.

#2 - Multifunctionality

The best smoke detectors can detect smoke particles, flames and carbon monoxide. Choose multifunctional detectors when purchasing, for added safety. Combination smoke, fire and carbon monoxide detectors are easier than ever to find.

#3 - Intelligent sensors

While traditional ionization and photoelectric smoke detectors are useful, smart smoke detectors are at the forefront of fire safety. They communicate via apps and send alerts to your phone or other mobile device if an alarm sounds. Smart alarms can also communicate with each other, so you'll know exactly where the fire is when an alarm goes off. The only downside is that smart devices are more expensive.

#4 - The emergency power supply

Even if your home's power goes out, you still need to be sure you're notified as soon as possible in case of a fire. Be sure to purchase a smoke detector with a battery backup or other backup power source to keep them running in the event of a power outage. Also make sure the detector has a feature that alerts you when it runs out of batteries.

#5 - Maintenance

Choose a smoke detector that is easy to clean and maintain. For example, choose a detector with a hinged or removable cover, it will be easier to remove dirt that can block their sensors in your detector or trigger false alarms. Consider your particular needs. Some smoke detectors come with options or extra equipment to complement the audible alarm, such as a visual alerting system for the hearing impaired. If you have a large home, you may want to consider installing a central panel and various smoke, heat and carbon monoxide sensors. The panel then activates annunciator devices such as sirens and flashing lights when alarm conditions exist. They may also contain diagnostic functions to indicate a "problem" with a sensor or its batteries or wiring.

Ion sensor detectors and the 2011 ban

The ionic detector uses radiation and an ionization chamber to detect smoke. The ionization chamber consists of two electrodes and a radioactive element that together create a detectable current. The ionizing radiation helps to detect small amounts of smoke in the air, as with a burning fire. When smoke enters the sensor chamber, the ionizing radiation current is disturbed, which triggers the alarm.

For almost 50 years, the ionic sensor smoke detector has been marketed in the UK. Known for its speed in detecting fire starts with flames, it has been permanently withdrawn from sale and use since a decree of 2011. At issue is the radioactive element (americium 241) considered dangerous to public health.

The ionic detector has not completely disappeared from the market, since some major brands (First Alert) still produce them (the ban does not apply to all countries), so be careful when buying your detector. This type of detector is easily recognizable thanks to the radioactive clover that is stamped on the back, as well as the mention "RADIOACTIVE". If you want to buy a new detector, check these symbols.

Where to buy your smoke detector?

In stores.

You can buy your smoke detector in a store where you can discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each type and model with professionals. However, you'll probably have fewer choices, especially if you only have time to visit one or two stores. And finding a specialty store can be tricky if you live in a small town.

Online.

Buying online, on the other hand, is much more convenient, since you can easily find and compare products from the biggest and least famous brands (Nest Protect, First Alert, KiddeSiemensetc.). You will be able to make your choice more easily. If you decide to buy online, our favorite sites for smoke detectors are Amazon and Boulanger, which offer a good price/quality/customer service ratio.

Also, shipping is usually free for online purchases.

The different types of smoke detectors

There are mainly two types of smoke detectors: the photoelectric detector, the ionic detector, the detector with dual sensor and the connected detector:

The photoelectric detector

This type of detector uses light to detect smoke, for this reason it is also called an optical smoke detector. When smoke particles are suspended in the air (as with a smoldering fire), they reflect a beam of light into the sensory chamber, triggering the alarm.

Advantages:

  • Effectively captures smoldering fires: The photoelectric smoke detector reacts much more quickly to slow-moving fires, so there is no need for flames. It is especially ideal for detecting smoke from heavy carbon-based materials such as coal, cloth and wood.
  • Has a long range: This type of detector can cover rooms with a fairly large surface area. It shoots an infrared beam across a space that triggers an alarm if smoke disturbs the beam.
  • Less risk of false alarms: Because the optical detector has a higher tolerance threshold to smoke.
  • Smaller and more affordable: Smoke detectors are often only 4 inches in diameter and less than 2 inches high. Their typical operating temperature ranges from minus 0°C to about 60°C. They also typically weigh less than 500 grams.

Disadvantages:

  • Not very sensitive to smoke: In some situations, such as for smoldering fires that do not produce large smoke particles, the optical detector may take time to react. And by that time, the fire may have become too large to be easily contained.

Who is it for?

The photoelectric smoke detector is now the only type of smoke detector authorized in the UK. It is thus intended for the use of all. And this is all the more so since the installation of a smoke detector in housing is mandatory since March 2015.

The only type of detector authorized by French legislation

The optical detector is now the only type of smoke detector authorized in the UK: the ionic smoke detector is banned from use since 2011, although it also has its advantages. Notably its more affordable price and its greater sensitivity to smoke.

The combined detector

The

combined detector is, as its name suggests, a combination of photoelectric technology and carbon monoxide detection to protect against both smoke and CO. This type of detector offers protection against two deadly threats in one unit.

Advantages :

  • A savingboth in price (since we have two detectors for the price of one) and in space.
  • One maintenance for two detectors: maintenance will be easier with a combined detector.
  • Capture effectively the fires without combustion: as it also uses photoelectric technology.

Disadvantages:

  • Is not very sensitive to smoke: As this kind of smoke detector uses the same technology as simple optical detectors, but combined with CO detection technology, they can be blamed for the same weakness. They take some time to react to combustion fires.

Who is it for?

Since the installation of smoke detectors is mandatory for all homeowners or premises now, this type of detector is for everyone. It is more relevant to install them in kitchens to detect gas leaks as soon as possible.

Be careful not to confuse

A smoke detector cannot replace a carbon monoxide detector and vice versa. The smoke detector alerts you to a fire, while the carbon monoxide detector alerts you if there is a backdraft of CO which is odorless, colorless and deadly in the home. This is why the carbon monoxide detector alone was not included in this list.

Why buy a smoke detector?

Domestic fires are very common in the UK, with nearly 250,000 cases reported each year. Safety is therefore the reason for the need to buy a smoke detector.

Safety

Having smoke detectors placed in various places in your home allows for quick and effective detection. The smoke detector's siren will alert you, day or night, to a possible fire, allowing you to quickly verify the nature of the problem and avoid any damage.

Facilitating the work of firefighters

When placed in the right place, a smoke detector can also help firefighters quickly locate the fire in your home, allowing them to better focus their efforts and quickly put out the fire.

The more the merrier

Home fires can start anywhere and for the best protection, it can't be stressed enough, it's best to install a smoke alarm in every bedroom and hallway outside of the bedrooms. Each floor of your home should have a smoke detector.

Interconnected detectors offer more security

Because if one goes off, all the others will follow. And everyone in the house will be notified in time to act accordingly.

The best brands of smoke detectors

In our opinion, the best brands of smoke detectors in 2022 are :

Kidde
Netatmo
X-Sense
Nest Protect

Kidde is a brand and division of Carrier Global. It is a group of companies that manufactures and distributes fire detection and suppression equipment, as well as smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Kidde is one of the largest U.S. manufacturers of smoke alarms and fire safety products.

S.A. Netatmo is a French company that manufactures smart devices for the home. Founded in 2011, it has launched a wide variety of products including various security cameras, personal weather sensors and internet connected smoke detectors. The Netatmo detector is one of the best on the market, very robust and high performing, this product has yet to disappoint.

Fireangel Safety Technology Group plc, formerly Sprue Aegis plc, is engaged in the design, sale and marketing of smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors and accessories. It operates its own CO sensor manufacturing facility in Canada and is also a supplier of home security products. Its products are of the highest quality and are affordably priced with a focus on value for money.

X-Sense is a global leader in home security products, including smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and combination smoke and CO detectors. Since its inception, it has been committed to creating the most reliable home security products for people around the world.

Nest Protect is designed to detect smoke and carbon monoxide in a residential environment. Nest Protect can be used as a single or multiple alarm stations. It is a high quality product designed and developed by Google.

What is the price for a smoke detector

The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).

However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.

We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.

Entry-level
15 £ to 40 £
Mid-range
40 £ to 50 £
High-end
more than 50 £
Price range diagram

Tips

Install your smoke detector in a suitable location

You should choose the installation of your smoke detector carefully to avoid nuisance alarms. Avoid placing the device near sources of smoke (the kitchen, bathroom, or fireplace) and in areas that are too dusty, such as the basement, garage, and attic. It should also be kept away from fluorescent lights and ventilation ducts.

Clean the unit thoroughly

You should clean your smoke detector regularly to avoid dust buildup. To do this, take a damp cloth and wipe it over the surface of the device. Then, vacuum it at the level of its openings in order to get rid of any dust inside.

Remove it temporarily in case of work

If you carry out work in your house, it is necessary to dismantle your smoke detector to avoid the triggering of the alarm or the possible deposits of plaster. Also, when you reinstall the device, be careful not to drop dust into the optical chamber.

Adopt the right reflex in case of unexpected smoke

Even if your smoke detector is already kept away from sources of smoke, it is possible to have an impromptu release of smoke near the area where it is located. You should therefore immediately ventilate the home to prevent the alarm from going off.

Turn off your smoke alarm manually

Be aware that a smoke detector alarm will only automatically stop when it no longer detects smoke. However, if your alarm has gone off for no apparent reason, you will be able to stop it by pressing the center button for 1 second, using your app, or removing the battery.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
  1. , netatmo.com
  2. , quechoisir.org
  3. , tendance-travaux.fr
  4. , generali.fr
  5. , reassurez-moi.fr
  6. , nexecur.fr
  7. , m-habitat.fr
  8. , sowee.fr
  9. , macif.fr
  10. , totalenergies.fr
  11. , thespruce.com
  12. , businessinsider.com
  13. , walmart.ca
  14. , amazon.co.uk
  15. , antoinesait.com
  16. , securi100.fr
  17. , allianz.fr
  18. , verisure.fr
  19. , service-public.fr
  20. , leroymerlin.fr
  21. , ecomparatif.fr
  22. , renodepot.com
  23. , rona.ca
  24. , droit-finances.commentcamarche.com
  25. , manomano.fr
  26. , fr.wikipedia.org
  27. , quechoisir.org
  28. , reassurez-moi.fr
  29. , quechoisir.org
  30. , boulanger.com
  31. , canadiantire.ca
  32. , amazon.co.uk
See more

Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

See more
Our selection
Siemens Delta Reflex 5TC1292-1 9
Siemens Delta Reflex 5TC1292-1
X-Sense SD 13 10
X-Sense SD 13
Bosch Smart Home 8750000287 11
Bosch Smart Home 8750000287
Elro FS1805 12
Elro FS1805

Lecteurs

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