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When it comes to protecting your home and family, choosing the right smoke alarm is key. One of the most effective solutions on the market today is the photoelectric fire alarm, particularly those with interconnection technology. These alarms are specifically designed to detect the early signs of a fire, particularly smouldering fires, which are the most common type in residential areas.

The interconnection feature allows all alarms in your home to activate simultaneously when one detects smoke, ensuring everyone is alerted, no matter where they are. But why is this type of smoke alarm so important? And how can correct Australian Standard Certification (the red ‘5-ticks’ logo) give you the confidence you need in your purchase? This certification ensures that your alarm meets strict safety standards, guaranteeing its reliability and effectiveness in protecting your home and loved ones. Read on to find out more about why photoelectric fire alarms are a must-have for every household, and the surprising facts behind Australian Standard certification!

What Is An Interconnected Photoelectric Fire Alarm?

An interconnected photoelectric fire alarm is designed to link multiple alarms throughout your home. When one alarm detects smoke, it automatically triggers all the alarms in the network using a radio frequency (RF) signal. This means that whether you’re asleep in the bedroom upstairs or watching TV in the living room downstairs, you’ll be alerted to danger, no matter where the fire starts. For families with large homes or multi-level houses (or with teenagers with headphones on), having an interconnected photoelectric fire alarm offers an added layer of protection, ensuring no part of the home is left vulnerable.

Why Photoelectric Fire Alarm Technology Matters

Photoelectric fire alarms are renowned for their ability to detect slow, smouldering fires—common in home settings. These fires often produce significant amounts of smoke before erupting into visible flames, making early detection critical. Once an active flame state is achieved, a fire can engulf a modern home in a matter of minutes.

Unlike older ionisation alarms, new photoelectric fire alarm models are highly sensitive to smoke from smouldering materials such as furniture or electrical wiring, which can often smoulder for hours without visible flames. This early warning capability provides crucial seconds to evacuate and take action, greatly improving the chances of escape and fire containment. By opting for photoelectric fire alarms, you’re investing in life-saving technology that’s proven to detect fires more efficiently, keeping your home and family safer.

Australian Standard Red ‘5-Ticks’ Certification

Beware – not all photoelectric fire alarms are created equal. Did you know that smoke alarm manufacturers have a choice of certification agencies to verify their product? Some certification agencies, such as Intertek SAI Global, are well-known and established – you’ll often see their red Australian Standard logo (commonly known as the ‘StandardsMark’ or red ‘5-ticks logo’) not only on smoke alarms but on a variety of Australian certified products.

This certification provides a significant level of assurance that the photoelectric fire alarm has been rigorously assessed to meet Australian Standard AS 3786:2014. As part of the process, Intertek SAI Global sends an independent audit team to the smoke alarm manufacturing facility every year to inspect and verify the manufacturing and testing procedures. A report is produced, and any non-conformances are immediately identified and rectified, ensuring that the alarm meets all necessary safety standards. This ongoing auditing process ensures safety and quality standards are maintained continuously, providing you with reliable protection for years to come.

ZEN photoelectric fire alarm - Australian Standard license number SMK41401

How do you know if the smoke alarm manufacturer is genuine and legally authorised to use the red logo above? Simple – look them up! You can see the license number above ‘SMK41401’. This license number is unique to the manufacturer’s certificate and can be searched on the Intertek SAI Global database. Check it out here. The database applies not only to smoke alarms, but to any Australian Standard Certified product! By verifying the license number, you can confirm the manufacturer’s authenticity and ensure that the product you are purchasing is genuinely certified to meet Australian safety standards.

photoelectric fire alarm Intertek SAI Global database
photoelectric fire alarm Intertek SAI Global database

However, another choice for smoke alarm manufacturers is to certify their product using an offshore certification agency, which is cheaper and less well known. Surprisingly, the Australian Standard verification process for these cheaper certification agencies does not require visiting and auditing the manufacturing facility at all! Instead, the cheaper certification agency will perform a one-time desk review of paperwork, such as a smoke alarm test report, and confirm the product is Australian Standard certified based solely on this evidence. This process lacks the ongoing oversight that helps maintain product safety and quality.

Note that while these cheaper certification agencies may claim the product is Australian Standard certified and produce their own ‘certificate,’ they do not have permission to use the Australian Standard red ‘5-ticks logo.’ Always look for the genuine red ‘5-ticks logo’ as it signifies a trusted symbol of quality and ongoing testing. By choosing a photoelectric fire alarm with the Australian Standard red ‘5-ticks logo,’ like those from ZEN Smoke Alarms, you’re investing in a product rigorously tested for quality, reliability, durability, and overall performance year after year—ensuring your home is safeguarded by the highest standards.

Invest In ZEN Photoelectric Smoke Alarms

For Trusted Total Protection

When it comes to safeguarding your home, interconnected photoelectric fire alarms offer unparalleled safety by ensuring that every corner of your house is covered. Unlike traditional alarms, interconnected systems allow each alarm to communicate with others, so when one detects smoke, all alarms in the home will sound, providing early warning no matter where you are. Choose ZEN Smoke Alarms for certified quality and the peace of mind that comes with the trusted Australian Standard red ‘5-ticks logo’. This certification guarantees that the alarms meet stringent safety standards, offering reliable protection.

Protect your home and family with a system that’s proven to work – when you need it most.

Want to know more? Watch our ZEN Smoke Alarm YouTube channel or call us on 0478 596 402 today

We love talking smoke alarms!

ZEN Photoelectric Smoke Alarms

New Farm, QLD, 4005

Wireless interconnected smoke detectors are essential safety devices, but misinformation often keeps people from making the best choices. In this second part of our knowledge series we’ll bust another five myths about photoelectric smoke alarms so you can protect your home and loved ones more effectively.

wireless interconnected smoke detectors - myth vs reality?

MYTH 1: Wireless Interconnected Smoke Detectors

Are Not Necessary

REALITY: Some people believe that wireless interconnected smoke detectors are an unnecessary luxury. However, interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms significantly improve safety. When one alarm detects smoke, it triggers all the wireless interconnected smoke detectors in the house, ensuring that everyone is alerted, regardless of where the fire starts. Interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms are recommended by every Australian state fire department and will become mandatory by law for every Queensland home in 2027.

MYTH 2: Wireless Interconnected Smoke Detectors

Don’t Need Maintenance Or Cleaning

REALITY: Maintenance is crucial for all smoke alarms to function properly and wireless interconnected smoke detectors are no exception. wireless interconnected smoke detectors should be tested monthly. Additionally, wireless interconnected smoke detectors should be cleaned periodically to remove dust and debris that could impair their sensitivity. Neglecting these tasks can lead to false alarms or, worse, a failure to alert you in the event of a fire.

MYTH 3: All Wireless Interconnected Smoke Detectors

Are The Same

REALITY: There are two primary types of smoke alarms: ionization and photoelectric. Photoelectric smoke alarms are better at detecting smouldering fires, which are more common in home environments. They are less prone to false alarms from cooking or steam, making them more reliable in daily use. Additionally, photoelectric smoke detectors provide quicker warnings for slow-burning fires, offering more time to escape safely. It is for this reason that interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms such as ZEN are the preferred type by all fire authorities in Australia.

ZEN wireless interconnected smoke detectors - myth vs fact (1)

MYTH 4: Wireless Interconnected Smoke Detectors

Can Be Installed Anywhere

REALITY: Proper placement is key for effective smoke detection. ZEN wireless interconnected smoke detectors should be installed on every level of your home, inside bedrooms, and the hallway outside sleeping areas. Avoid placing wireless interconnected smoke detectors near kitchens or bathrooms where steam and cooking fumes could cause false alarms. Avoid placing wireless interconnected smoke detectors in areas prone to excessive dust or in semi-enclosed areas.

MYTH 5: I’ll Hear The Alarm And Have Plenty Of Time To Act

REALITY: Many people believe that the smell of smoke will wake them up, or that heat from a fire will give enough warning to respond calmly. However, fires can spread rapidly, often filling a home with thick, toxic smoke in just minutes, making escape difficult. Did you know that whilst asleep, your sense of smell ceases to function? This means you won’t smell the smoke, leaving you vulnerable to the dangers of fire. A wireless interconnected smoke detector system can alert you in time by sounding all alarms in the house when one is triggered, ensuring everyone has the precious seconds needed to wake up, react, and escape safely.

MYTH 6: Wireless Interconnected Smoke Detectors

Are Too Expensive

REALITY: Some homeowners believe that installing a wireless interconnected smoke detector system is too costly. However, the price of these life-saving devices is small compared to the potential loss caused by a house fire. Additionally, ZEN wireless interconnected smoke alarms offer easy DIY installation, eliminating the need for an electrician and saving on installation costs. Investing in high-quality interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms provides priceless peace of mind and ensures your family’s safety.

MYTH 7: Wireless Interconnected Smoke Detectors

Will Always False Alarm

REALITY: While some people worry that wireless interconnected smoke detectors will frequently trigger false alarms, modern photoelectric smoke alarms are specifically designed to reduce nuisance alarms. Unlike older ionization models, which can be sensitive to cooking fumes and steam, ZEN photoelectric smoke detectors are far more reliable, making them ideal for home use. Proper placement and occasional cleaning further help minimize false alarms while ensuring maximum protection.

ZEN wireless interconnected smoke detectors - myth vs fact (2)

MYTH 8: One Smoke Detector Is Enough for My Whole House

REALITY: A single smoke alarm cannot provide adequate protection, especially in multi-room or multi-level homes. Fire can spread quickly, and if a fire starts in a distant part of the house, a single detector may not alert everyone in time. Wireless interconnected smoke detectors ensure that when one alarm is triggered, all alarms sound, giving every occupant in the home the best possible chance to wake up and escape safely.

MYTH 9: Smoke Detectors Don’t Need to Be Replaced

If They Still Work

REALITY: Even if a smoke alarm appears to function, it should still be replaced every 10 years. Over time, smoke detectors can lose sensitivity, reducing their ability to detect fires effectively. ZEN wireless interconnected smoke detectors come with a built-in 10-year non-removable battery, meaning no battery replacements are ever needed. However, after a decade, the entire unit should be replaced to maintain optimal performance and compliance with safety regulations.

MYTH 10: I Have a Fire Extinguisher,

So I Don’t Need Smoke Detectors

REALITY: Fire extinguishers are useful for controlling small fires, but they don’t provide an early warning when a fire starts. If a fire breaks out while you’re asleep, a fire extinguisher won’t help if you aren’t aware of the danger. Wireless interconnected smoke detectors provide crucial early warning, giving you and your family time to escape before a fire becomes uncontrollable. A fire extinguisher is a great addition to your fire safety plan, but it should never replace properly installed and maintained smoke alarms.

ZEN wireless interconnected smoke detectors - myth vs fact (3)

We hope you have enjoyed this second and final part of our knowledge series article. By debunking common wireless interconnected smoke detector myths and recognizing the strengths of different types of alarms, you can make informed decisions that enhance your household’s fire readiness and overall safety. Understanding how these alarms work, their benefits, and proper placement can significantly improve your home’s protection. Stay tuned for more expert insights, practical fire safety tips, and essential information to help you safeguard your family, reduce risks, and stay prepared for any fire emergency.

Want to know more? Watch our ZEN Smoke Alarm YouTube channel or call us on 0478 596 402 today

We love talking smoke alarms!

ZEN Photoelectric Smoke Alarms

New Farm, QLD, 4005

Wireless interconnected smoke alarms are essential for home safety, but how much of what you know about them is actually true? In this first knowledge series article, we’re separating fact from fiction as we debunk the top myths surrounding wireless interconnected smoke alarms. From misconceptions about placement to myths about maintenance, we’ll dispel the rumours and urban myths to help you protect your home and loved ones more effectively. Get ready to discover the surprising truth behind wireless interconnected smoke alarms – no fake news here!

Wireless interconnected smoke alarms myth vs reality

MYTH 1: Wireless Interconnected Smoke Alarms

Require The Internet To Function

REALITY: ZEN wireless interconnected smoke alarms do not require internet as they are not a wifi smoke alarm nor are they Bluetooth smoke detectors. The connection and pairing process for our interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms is achieved using wireless radio frequency (RF) transmissions and a tiny yet effective RF transmitter inbuilt into each fire alarm. No internet? No worries. It’s not required for your ZEN interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms as they are not a wifi smoke alarm.

MYTH 2: Wireless Interconnected Smoke Alarms

Are Unsuitable For Large Multi-Story Dwellings

REALITY: ZEN wireless interconnected smoke alarms can be separated by a distance of 30m between each smoke alarm and still function within a large 100m free-field range without being compromised. These advanced alarms can be installed upstairs, downstairs, and even between solid concrete walls and floors—that’s exactly what they are designed to do! Wireless interconnected smoke alarms are highly suitable for large multi-story dwellings, ensuring comprehensive fire protection across all levels. Their strong wireless connectivity allows seamless communication, providing early warning alerts throughout the home, no matter its size or layout. Reliable, efficient, and built for superior safety!

MYTH 3: Wireless Interconnected Smoke Alarms

Last Forever

REALITY: All wireless interconnected smoke alarms have a finite lifespan. Irrespective of what brand you own, after 10 years, the sensors can wear down or become coated in dust, making them less reliable and potentially compromising your safety. Regular maintenance can help extend functionality, but replacement is essential. Check the manufacture date printed on the back of your photoelectric smoke alarm and replace them when they reach that 10-year mark. Upgrading to new alarms ensures optimal performance, compliance with fire safety regulations, and the best possible protection for your home and loved ones. Don’t take chances—replace outdated alarms today!

ZEN wireless interconnected smoke alarms - myth vs fact (2)

MYTH 4: Wireless Interconnected Smoke Alarms

Will Trigger The Alarms In My Neighbour’s Property

REALITY: This is not possible. Even though most wireless interconnected smoke alarms communicate on the same radio frequency (433.92 MHz), they are uniquely ‘coded’ to each other via a master smoke alarm within each network. This unique code prevents wireless interconnected smoke alarms in one property from accidentally activating smoke detectors in any adjoining property, eliminating the risk of false alarms between neighbouring homes. Each system operates independently, ensuring that only alarms within the same coded network will trigger together. This advanced technology guarantees reliable performance, making wireless interconnected smoke alarms a secure and efficient fire safety solution.

MYTH 5: Wireless Interconnected Smoke Alarms

Are Too Expensive

REALITY: All new technologies become cheaper over time and photoelectric smoke alarms are no exception. ZEN interconnected smoke alarms are high quality and very affordable, especially considering the life saving benefits they deliver. ZEN photoelectric smoke alarm bundle packs offer great savings via free delivery and a free smoke alarm remote control! The 10-year sealed lithium battery also eliminates the annual cost of smoke alarm battery replacement.

MYTH 6: Smoke alarms Will Wake Me Up Instantly

REALITY: Many people assume they will wake up immediately when a smoke alarm sounds. However, studies show that deep sleepers, children, and individuals under the influence of alcohol or medication may not respond right away. This is why wireless interconnected smoke alarms are so important—when one alarm activates, all alarms sound throughout the house, increasing the chances of waking everyone up in time to escape safely.

MYTH 7: Smoke Alarms Only Need to Be Installed in Hallways

REALITY: While hallways are essential locations for smoke alarms installing alarms in every bedroom and on every story of the dwelling significantly increases safety. Fires can start anywhere, including inside bedrooms due to electrical faults or heating devices. By installing ZEN wireless interconnected smoke alarms in all sleeping areas and main living spaces, you ensure everyone gets an early warning, no matter where they are in the house.

ZEN wireless interconnected smoke alarms - myth vs fact (1)

MYTH 8: Wireless Interconnected Smoke Alarms

Drain Batteries Quickly

REALITY: Unlike older smoke alarms that required frequent battery changes, ZEN wireless interconnected smoke detectors come with a built-in, non-removable 10-year lithium battery. This means there is no need to replace batteries, reducing maintenance while ensuring your home remains protected 24/7 for a full decade.

MYTH 9: Cooking Fumes Will Set Off My

Wireless Interconnected Smoke Alarm

REALITY: Many people worry that interconnected smoke alarms will constantly trigger false alarms from cooking. However, modern photoelectric smoke detectors like ZEN are designed to be less sensitive to cooking fumes than older ionization alarms. By installing smoke alarms in appropriate locations—away from stoves and ovens but still within range to provide effective fire detection—you can enjoy reliable protection without constant false alarms.

MYTH 10: My House is New, So I Don’t Need

Interconnected Smoke Alarms

REALITY: Fires can happen in any home, regardless of its age. Electrical faults, unattended candles, cooking accidents, and other hazards can cause fires even in newly built houses. Queensland’s 2027 smoke alarm laws require all homes, new and old, to have interconnected photoelectric smoke detectors installed in every bedroom, hallway, and level. Investing in ZEN wireless interconnected smoke alarms now ensures your home is compliant and your family is protected well before the law takes effect.

ZEN wireless interconnected smoke alarms - myth vs fact (3)

We hope you have enjoyed part one of our two part knowledge series article. By debunking common smoke alarm myths we’re helping you to make informed smoke alarm purchasing decisions – for others it may simply help keep their wireless interconnected smoke alarms in tip-top shape!

Want to know more? Watch our ZEN Smoke Alarm YouTube channel or call us on 0478 596 402 today

We love talking smoke alarms!

ZEN Photoelectric Smoke Alarms

New Farm, QLD, 4005

Lithium batteries are becoming the preferred choice for photoelectric smoke alarms due to their superior lifespan compared to traditional 9V alkaline options. A long-lasting smoke alarm battery ensures continuous protection, unlike 9V batteries that need yearly replacement. However, recent media reports have raised concerns about lithium battery safety, with cases of overheating, combustion and fire. This leads to an important question—does the lithium battery inside your smoke alarm pose the same fire risk as other devices? A dependable smoke alarm battery is essential for proper functionality. ZEN interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms feature a sealed 10-year lithium battery, eliminating the need for replacements. Read on to find out more..

Why Lithium Batteries In Photoelectric Smoke Alarms?

Interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms rely on a dependable smoke alarm battery for continuous protection. Lithium batteries are now the preferred choice due to their superior lifespan and reliability compared to traditional 9V alkaline options. Conventional 9V smoke alarm batteries drain quickly and require annual replacement, often leading to the dreaded low battery ‘chirp.’ In frustration, many homeowners remove the battery to silence the noise—only to forget to replace it, leaving their home unprotected.

Lithium batteries have a significantly longer lifespan, designed to last for 10 years, which aligns with the recommended replacement interval for interconnected smoke alarms themselves. This longevity reduces the need for frequent smoke alarm battery changes, minimizing the risk of having photoelectric smoke alarms with a dead battery (or no battery), which could be life-threatening in a fire emergency.

Photoelectric Smoke Alarm Battery

Reliability And Performance

Lithium batteries inside photoelectric smoke alarms are also known for their stable voltage output. Unlike 9V alkaline batteries, which tend to lose power gradually, 3V lithium batteries maintain a consistent voltage until they are almost depleted. This stability is crucial in interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms, where consistent power is needed to ensure reliable operation.

Additionally, lithium batteries perform well in a wide range of temperatures, making them ideal for use in various parts of the home across different states and regions of Australia. The 10-year long life smoke alarm battery sealed inside ZEN photoelectric smoke alarms are non-removeable and non-replaceable. After 10 years the fire alarms (including the smoke alarm battery sealed inside them) are simply swapped out for new fire alarms.

lithium smoke alarm battery inside the ZEN Photoelectric Smoke Alarm

ZEN photoelectric smoke alarms are powered by two small 3V lithium CR14505 batteries shown above

Are The Lithium Batteries Inside My

Photoelectric Smoke Alarms A Fire Hazard?

No they aren’t. There are several reasons why we don’t hear news stories of lithium batteries spontaneously combusting inside photoelectric smoke alarms. The 10-year long life lithium batteries in photoelectric smoke alarms differ in design from lithium-ion batteries used in e-scooters, e-bikes etc. – it is these mobility devices which have seen a massive surge in the frequency of lithium battery fires as reported in the media. Photoelectric smoke alarms contain two small 3V, single-use, lithium batteries sealed within the fire alarm itself. These batteries are non-replaceable and are designed to deplete slowly and steadily over a 10-year lifespan.

At the end of this period, the interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms are disposed of in their entirety (including the smoke alarm battery sealed inside), and new interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms are installed in-situ. The same fire and thermal runaway risks associated with continuous and repeated recharging of large, high energy lithium-ion batteries used in e-bikes, e-scooters and other mobility devices are not present with the two small non-rechargeable lithium batteries inside photoelectric smoke alarms.

Furthermore, large high energy lithium batteries used in mobility transportation devices are often physically damaged due to bumps or knocks (riding an e-bike or e-scooter over the curbside or on an uneven concrete footpath etc.) which may contribute to thermal battery runway and pose a significant overheating / fire hazard. The same risk exposure for causing lithium battery damage is not present with photoelectric smoke alarms attached to a ceiling – once installed they do not move or get subjected to damaging dynamic forces.

Interconnected photoelectric smoke alarm battery safety
Interconnected photoelectric smoke alarm battery safety

Safety Benefits of

Interconnected Photoelectric Smoke Alarms

Interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms provide a network of protection throughout the home. If one alarm detects smoke or fire, all connected photoelectric smoke alarms will sound, alerting occupants even if they are in a different part of the house. This is particularly important in larger homes or homes with multiple levels, where a fire might go unnoticed if alarms were not interconnected. The lithium battery’s long life and reliability enhance this system, ensuring that all the interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms are functional and ready to alert occupants in case of an emergency.

When purchasing interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms, it is essential to choose fire alarms that comply with Australian Standard 3786:2014, as indicated by the official Australian Standard red ‘5-tick’s mark on the packaging and the product itself. Product testing required of this standard helps ensure that the smoke alarm poses no electrical danger during normal use. Additionally, interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms should carry the electrical Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM), affirming compliance with Australian electrical safety regulations outlined in Australian Standard 3820:2020. Avoiding cheap imported knock-offs without the RCM mark is crucial for smoke alarm battery safety – have a look at the rear of your photoelectric smoke alarms today – do they have the Regulatory Compliance Mark?

ZEN Smoke Alarms are Australian Standard Certified and contain the Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM)

Photoelectric Smoke Alarms

Battery Environmental Considerations

The lithium batteries inside photoelectric smoke alarms are also more environmentally friendly compared to their alkaline counterparts. Fewer replacements mean less waste, which is a positive step towards reducing the environmental impact. Additionally, many lithium batteries are recyclable, which further minimizes their footprint. Lithium-ion batteries are a source of many valuable materials. If recycled, potentially 95% of battery components can be recovered for alternative use or may even be turned into new batteries. B-cycle is Australia’s national battery recycling scheme, supporting a collection network for used batteries.

Photoelectric Smoke Alarm Battery Safety – Conclusion

The smoke alarm battery is a vital component of modern home safety, ensuring continuous protection. Lithium batteries are now the preferred choice due to their long lifespan, reliability, and eco-friendly benefits. Unlike lithium batteries in other devices, the lithium smoke alarm battery is completely sealed and designed for safety, depleting slowly and steadily over a decade, eliminating any risk of overheating or fire hazards. ZEN interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms are powered by a sealed 10-year lithium smoke alarm battery, removing the need for annual replacements. Regularly testing your smoke alarms and replacing them every 10 years ensures they function effectively, providing peace of mind and long-term reliability.

Want to know more? Watch our ZEN Smoke Alarm YouTube channel or call us on 0478 596 402 today

We love talking smoke alarms!

ZEN Photoelectric Smoke Alarms

New Farm, QLD, 4005