Author Topic: Best way to disguise smoke detectors? (Read 15889 times)

muggins · « **on:** January 30, 2008, 11:25:53 AM »

Any advice on the best way to mask the appearance of smoke/heat detectors? I'm thinking of two scenarios - historic buildings and sleek contemporary dwellings. Are there any types that are smaller or less obtrusive than others?
Thanks

kurnal · « **Reply #1 on:** January 30, 2008, 11:45:58 AM »

Aspirating detectors can be installed so all you see is a tiny hole or capillary tube poking through a hole. The system draws air through the tubes and analyses them for signs of fire. Take a look at Airsense Technology and VESDA - try google.

The Reiver · « **Reply #2 on:** January 30, 2008, 12:03:07 PM »

I saw an advert in a fire engineering magazine for detectors with various coloured covers, even wood grain effect. Can't remember the manufacturer but they are definately available and were designed for exactly your problem.

Will go and search my back issues but I'm sure the Alarm Fraternity will be "In Like Flint" with the answer.

Daren Pool · « **Reply #3 on:** January 30, 2008, 12:11:01 PM »

Hi

We offer designer detectors - let me know if interested and i can email you some specs.

muggins · « **Reply #4 on:** January 30, 2008, 01:58:42 PM »

Daren, that would be great thanks

muggins · « **Reply #5 on:** January 30, 2008, 02:01:32 PM »

would aspirating systems have a much higher cost than normal smoke detectors?

Ashley Wood · « **Reply #6 on:** January 30, 2008, 02:57:40 PM »

One of my clients has just bought a VESDA unit for £645.00. You would then have to allow for install and pipe, fittings, commissioning etc. If you are looking to compare the cost of a single detector then the answer is no, a point detector is cheaper. When you add the wiring, visual impact etc then it becomes a bit more interesting. Also, you have to remember that VESDA or similar is far more sensitive than a normal detector, so this has a value as well. Faster response means less damage, faster escape etc.

I worked on a project many years ago where I designed aspirating systems for the Royal palace in Madrid. The sample pipes were concealed behind curtains and below window ledges!

Allen Higginson · « **Reply #7 on:** January 30, 2008, 04:53:02 PM »

Quote from: Ashley Wood

One of my clients has just bought a VESDA unit for £645.00. You would then have to allow for install and pipe, fittings, commissioning etc. If you are looking to compare the cost of a single detector then the answer is no, a point detector is cheaper. When you add the wiring, visual impact etc then it becomes a bit more interesting. Also, you have to remember that VESDA or similar is far more sensitive than a normal detector, so this has a value as well. Faster response means less damage, faster escape etc.

I worked on a project many years ago where I designed aspirating systems for the Royal palace in Madrid. The sample pipes were concealed behind curtains and below window ledges!

How'd that work then???If primary detection surely they must be installed as per point detection design specifications??

Ashley Wood · « **Reply #8 on:** January 31, 2008, 10:46:54 AM »

This was Spain 1986! Standards, what standards. The ceilings in all the rooms were ceramic. By installing sample pipes up behind the curtains and under window ledges it improved the level of smoke detection 100% as before this they had nothing. Sometimes you have to think outside of the box...

Leeo · « **Reply #9 on:** January 31, 2008, 01:36:55 PM »

can anyone tell me how often smoke detectors are supposed to be tested and where i can find it in black and white?

I really could do with someones help in this please.

Leeo

Thebeardedyorkshireman · « **Reply #10 on:** January 31, 2008, 02:08:03 PM »

Leeo
You will find all the information in BS 5839 pt1 2002. If you dont have access to this standard ( it costs about £60 from memory) you could get yourself a copy of our standard log book. By kind permission of those very nice chaps at HMSO and the BSI etc etc we reprint the section on regular testing in the front.
If you repost giving me an Email address I will send you a copy. I dony know how to do these clever linky things that the other guys do because I am just a thick Yorkshireman.
Dave

Chris Houston · « **Reply #11 on:** January 31, 2008, 02:28:25 PM »

Quote from: Leeo

can anyone tell me how often smoke detectors are supposed to be tested and where i can find it in black and white?

I really could do with someones help in this please.

Leeo

As said above, the "black and white" answers are contained within British Standard 5839 Part 1.

The short answer is that for most modern systems your contractor should service the system twice a year. At each visit they will tend to do 50% of detectors and check and panel and batteries. Faults should be repaired urgently, don't wait for the next service visit. Someone should look at the panel every day to check it is OK and someone should set of the alarms by testing a different call point once per week.

MC · « **Reply #12 on:** January 31, 2008, 02:55:50 PM »

Try Global Fire Systems 0870 2208211 ask for Ian Phelps, they can mask heads with various colours including various types of wood grains and even marble effects.

FSO · « **Reply #13 on:** January 31, 2008, 04:26:30 PM »

Quote from: Leeo

can anyone tell me how often smoke detectors are supposed to be tested and where i can find it in black and white?

I really could do with someones help in this please.

Leeo

Leeo I presume you are talking about a fire alarm system in the workplace?

Daren Pool · « **Reply #14 on:** February 01, 2008, 05:13:48 PM »

Hi Buddy

Let me have your email and i can send the data/images through on the designer heads.

Daren

daren@triplestarfire.com

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Author Topic: Best way to disguise smoke detectors? (Read 15889 times)

Chris Houston