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What smoke alarm should I buy?

Fire Safety

16 June 2025

When asking what smoke alarm should I buy, there are several things to consider. It's tempting to grab the first one you see or order a cheap one online, however these can be uncertified and might not suit the type of room you're trying to protect in your home.

What smoke alarm should I buy for my home?

It can feel confusing with so many types of smoke and fire alarms on the market. We recommend a mixture of smoke and heat alarms which are interlinked for the fullest protection but what does that mean? Read on to find out more.

Optical smoke alarms

The most reliable smoke alarm technology is optical sensing. Optical smoke alarms detect slow, smouldering fires (like from upholstery, clothing and wood) meaning they will alert you as soon as a fire produces smoke. Get an optical smoke alarm to protect your hallways, bedrooms and living rooms.

Shop our bestselling optical smoke alarms.

Optical smoke alarms work by ‘seeing’ the smoke so bugs and fumes can affect the sensor and sometimes give false alarms, that’s where a heat alarm might be best. If you want our picks on the best smoke alarms find that blog here.

What smoke alarm is right for you features. optical sensing technology, sealed battery, quiet testingHeat alarms

Heat alarms are not widely known but are best for kitchens, garages, lofts and utility rooms. These types of alarms respond to rapid temperature changes and aren’t triggered by smoke or steam so they are less prone to false alarms from bugs or kitchen fumes.

Shop our bestselling heat alarms.

Heat alarms measure rapid temperature increases and are best for electrical fires or grease fires which start quickly and have little smoke. Check out our top picks for heat alarms.

Connected alarms

Sometimes known as interlinked alarms, these types of alarms trigger together so if one sounds, they all do. Our Pro Connected technology allow for complete fire and CO protection for any size property. You can add on a wireless relay which allows alerts to be sent to your phone and remotely test your alarms so you have peace of mind wherever you go.

UK legal requirements

  • Scotland: Every home must have interlinked smoke and heat alarms
  • England and Wales: Smoke alarms are legally required in rented properties and recommended for all homes
  • Northern Ireland: Smoke alarms must be installed in all new homes and renovations

Our top tip is to look for certification and always check for the BS EN 14604 (smoke) or BS 5446-2 (heat) certification for quality and compliance.

If you’re not sure, contact our expert and friendly customer service team!

 

Got a burning question? Get in touch

If you can't find what your looking for on our blogs and looking for further guidance and advice, our UK-based Customer Support team are on hand all week from 8:30am until 5:30pm, they can answer any further queries you may have on our products, solutions or services.