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Paul Yates Electrical

Smoke detectors

Smoke alarms

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Smoke alarm systems to BS 5839: part 6

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The chart shows the most common causes of accidental fires within the home. Clearly if there are any regular smokers the risk of an accidental fire is significantly increased. Also note that many fires start at the cooking appliance. Here the best detector is often a 'heat detector' which responds to sharp rises in heat and not the burnt toast.

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The types of alarms available are:

  • Battery operated smoke alarms

  • Mains powered smoke alarms

  • Mains powered smoke alarms with stand by supply

  • Fire detectors supplied with power from a common power supply unit

These systems are graded as follows:

  • Grade A systems incorporate control & indicating equipment to BS 5839:part 4Installed to BS5839:part1

  • Grade B fire detection & alarm system comprises fire detectors other than smoke alarms, fire alarm sounders, control & indicating equipment to either BS 5839:part 4 or annex B of BS 5839:part 6

  • Grade C system consists of smoke detectors & sounders connected to a common power supply, comprising normal mains & stand-by supply featuring an element of centralised control.

  • Grade D system incorporates one or more mains powered smoke alarms, each with an integral stand-by supply.

  • Grade E system is mains powered, but with no stand-by supply.

  • Grade F system comprises one or more battery powered smoke alarms.

Care must be taken to choose the most suitable grade & type of detector, taking into account all the risk factors and considerations. Grade F systems have a major limitation that without a battery they cannot work!. I often install Grade D  systems fitted with alkaline 
9 volt batteries.

Whilst this battery choice is much cheaper than the rechargeable type it will still meet most of the requirements and work for 2/4 years before battery replacement is needed.

Safety advice page                                Link to a leading manufacturers site for further information     

Link to community fire safety website with advice leaflet                     link to How-stuff-works website for details

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