Mains smoke alarms. Life?

[jakespop]

Mains interlinked detectors with sealed lithium batteries. Recommended life of batteries 10 years? Does this mean complete unit should be changed every 10 years. If so is this only advisory?

[AnthonyB]

If the batteries are built into the detector and soldered in then it's an obvious case of whole unit replacement.

If the batteries are the long life lithium but can be easily snapped in & out in theory you could replace them, however with most manufacturers of domestic smoke alarms, particularly ionisation models, the 10 year life is for the whole unit and any loss of function or lowered sensitisation thereafter that contributes to loss is in the hands of the user for not following manufacturers guidance.

What brand is it? The manufacturer should be able to advise.

[Graeme]

the whole unit 10 years (in theory)

[Davo]

AB is correct, replace all.

Even the best mains SDs have a recommended life of twelve years, exceed at you peril

davo

[kurnal]

Under BS 5446 -1  and  BS EN 14604 manufacturers are required to put a label on the detector indicating the manufacturers recommended date for replacement. There is no such requirement as far as I can see under BS EN 54-7.

Is the manufacturers recommended date for replacement just built in obsolescence? Typically the life span was 10-12 years. How is this information communicated to the end user and how important is it if the device is in a normal environment and is subject to regular testing?

[John Dragon]

Aico state "replace in 10 years" on their smoke and heat alarms.
They also seem to be by far the most common make of smoke alarm.

[lancsfirepro]

What exactly is it in optical or ionisation smoke alarms that deteriorates to reduce the effectivity of the unit?

[Golden]

I thought I knew but did a bit of quick research and found this on Safelincs - http://www.safelincs.co.uk/blog/2011/01/11/why-should-smoke-alarms-be-replaced-after-ten-years/

[lancsfirepro]

So there's nothing specific then.
Any alarm guys out there change out 'part 1' detectors at 10 years as a matter of course?

[colin todd]

As I find myself on the border of Lancs for two days, I feel it is incumbent of me to offer an answer. (Why does it always rain up hrere, bu the way.)

The answer to your last questions, Lancy, is No and No.

Hope this helps.

[lancsfirepro]

As I find myself on the border of Lancs for two days, I feel it is incumbent of me to offer an answer. (Why does it always rain up hrere, bu the way.)
The answer to your last questions, Lancy, is No and No.
Hope this helps.

Thanks Colin, that's what I thought.
We have the clouds set to permanent leak mode to discourage the Southern types from lingering! 

[colin todd]

I am making a forage to wales tomorrow before reurning to GMC. Can you sort out that the welsh weather is better please.