Many home insurers will only want to insure homes that are fully up-to-speed with fire safety legislation, others may charge a premium for those yet to comply. The only way to be sure is to upgrade! There have been some horror stories in the past of homeowners realising they need their smoke alarms to be… Continue reading Do I Need Compliant Smoke Alarms for my Home Insurance?
Category: FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about residential smoke and carbon monoxide alarm systems in Scotland. Not sure what you need? Try our easy new online advisor!
I have a hardwired smoke alarm in my hall, do the rest of my alarms need to be hardwired too?
The short answer – No. Many homes will already have one hardwired smoke alarm in the hallway. This was required in legislation a few years ago and so is especially common in rented properties and new-builds. If this is the only alarm in your home, your system will need to be upgraded. It is also… Continue reading I have a hardwired smoke alarm in my hall, do the rest of my alarms need to be hardwired too?
What is an Interlinked Alarm System?
An interlinked alarm system is a system in which every alarm is connected. If one alarm detects smoke, they sound in every room, even if smoke hasn’t reached the detector. This is a requirement under new Scottish law for smoke & heat alarms that gives you precious seconds to take action. It is highly important… Continue reading What is an Interlinked Alarm System?
What’s the difference between optical and ionisation sensors?
Have you ever had a smoke alarm that would go off seemingly at random? Whenever you were making toast, even if you didn’t burn anything? Chances are this was an ionisation sensor smoke alarm. Ionisation alarms are much more sensitive to steam and vapours and are prone to giving false alarms when installed near kitchens… Continue reading What’s the difference between optical and ionisation sensors?
How long do smoke alarms last? Is it time to replace my smoke alarms?
The short answer—10 years. The long answer—it really depends on your alarms. New Scottish Government legislation states that all alarms fitted in properties now need 10-year, tamper-proof sealed lithium batteries that last the entire life of the alarm. Replaceable battery-powered alarms are no longer appropriate for use in Scotland. What Type of Alarm do I… Continue reading How long do smoke alarms last? Is it time to replace my smoke alarms?
Do you install Nest Protect smoke alarms?
No. They do not meet the standards required by Scottish home safety legislation. Nest Protect does not offer a heat sensor required for safety in kitchens in Scotland. Google owns Nest Protect. You must create an account with Google and share your private data with them to use Nest Protect smoke alarms. Nest Protect only… Continue reading Do you install Nest Protect smoke alarms?
