Category: Info

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, a free smoke alarm remote control and a free fire blanket too! 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

When it comes to home safety, interconnectable smoke alarms are an unsung hero that deserve more recognition. These devices have revolutionized fire safety, providing protection that’s not just smarter, but also faster and more reliable. Whether you’re a homeowner, a landlord, or just someone who values safety, understanding the benefits of interconnectable smoke alarms is vital, especially in the state of Queensland with new legislation mandating interconnectable smoke alarms in ALL dwellings by 2027.

Don’t forget to read the interconnectable smoke alarms FAQ list at the conclusion of this article – we provide answers to the most common interconnected fire alarm questions!

Do Interconnectable Smoke Alarms Really Matter?


Imagine a fire starting in a remote part of your home, like the garage or a downstairs laundry, whilst you are fast asleep upstairs in the second floor bedroom. Speed is everything in a fire emergency – a fire can double in size every 30 seconds, so every second counts. Without interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms, you might not hear the alert until the fire has spread significantly.

Interconnectable smoke alarms are linked so that when one detects smoke, they all sound the alarm simultaneously – you’re not relying on just one device to protect your entire household. This interconnected smoke alarm system ensures that no matter where the fire starts, everyone is alerted immediately – it provides occupants with a crucial time advantage to either escape or respond to the fire situation.

Interconnectable Smoke Alarms –

A Legal And Sensible Choice


Interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms are strongly recommended by every state fire department within Australia. Queensland, however, is the first state to make interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms not only a ‘recommendation’ – but a compulsory legal requirement for ALL home types and situations. Queensland’s strict new fire safety laws make it mandatory for all homes to have interconnected smoke alarms by 2027, but this isn’t just a legal hoop to jump through – it’s about ensuring the best possible protection for your family.

The early detection and widespread alert provided by interconnected photoelectric smoke alarm systems have been proven to save lives, particularly in multi-level homes or properties with hard-to-hear areas like granny flats or detached garages.

Interconnectable Smoke Alarms

Are Easy To Install And Easy To Maintain


You might think that installing a network of interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms sounds complicated, but modern technology has made it easier than ever. Interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms can be wireless, meaning you don’t have to deal with complicated electrical wiring, invasive installation procedures or major renovations to meet the new standards. Wirelessly interconnected battery-operated models offer a simple DIY solution for older homes or rental properties.

ZEN Interconnected Photoelectric Smoke Alarms are designed to be straight-forward and low maintenance, with long-lasting 10-year batteries and an optional remote control for easy smoke alarm testing and silencing. ZEN Smoke Alarm bundle packs (5 / 7 / 10 packs) will even arrive to you already wirelessly interconnected together – it’s one less thing you have to do after you receive them and makes smoke alarm installation even easier. How good is that!

ZEN Smoke Alarm bundle packs arrive to you already interconnected – we do the hard part for you!

Interconnectable Smoke Alarms

Offer Peace Of Mind

At the end of the day perhaps the biggest benefit of installing interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms is the peace of mind they offer. Knowing that your home is equipped with the best possible early warning system allows you to sleep easier, live more comfortably, and enjoy your home with the confidence that you’ve taken the right steps to protect what matters most – your loved ones.

So, if you haven’t already made the switch, now is the time. It’s not just about compliance—it’s about making sure your home is as safe as it can be.

Interconnectable smoke alarms - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Interconnectable smoke alarms – FAQ

Interconnectable Smoke Alarms Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to some of the most commonly asked interconnected smoke alarm questions. Read on!

Do interconnectable smoke alarms need to be hardwired?

No they don’t. ‘Hardwired’ refers to how a smoke alarm receives its power and not the method for interconnecting the smoke alarm (i.e. 240V hardwired vs 10 year battery powered). Australia’s National Construction Code and state legislation do not prescribe how a smoke alarm must be ‘interconnected’.

Do interconnectable smoke alarms require wifi or internet to function?

ZEN Smoke Alarms have a radio frequency (RF) transmitter inbuilt into each alarm – that is how our interconnected smoke alarms communicate with one another – no internet or home wifi required!

What is the range / distance of interconnectable smoke alarms?

ZEN interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms can operate in a 100m free-field range provided the alarms are not greater than 30m apart from one another. This is a huge distance and more than ample coverage for the average Australian home.

I have a multi-storey house with solid concrete walls and ceilings –

will the interconnectable smoke alarms still work?

This is not an issue with ZEN interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms (we can’t speak for other brands though). Our interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms are designed to function throughout large size multi-storey properties – upstairs, downstairs, inside and throughout the entire building with solid concrete walls, ceilings, floors etc. it is not a problem.

Can interconnectable smoke alarms

be triggered in neighbouring properties?

No, it is not possible to accidentally activate or trigger the interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms in your neighbours house (and vice versa) – imagine the chaos occurring right around Australia if this were the case! All alarms in one group are paired with a ‘master’ alarm, which is distinct from a ‘master’ alarm in any other group.

Will interconnectable smoke alarms be affected by other appliances?

Our smoke alarms cannot be affected by other household RF devices (i.e. wireless smoke alarms situated in neighbouring properties) as the technology is purposely designed to eliminate any such interference during the unique network pairing process.

TV or A/C remote controls do not interfere with our alarms either as they typically use different technology (infrared IR vs radio frequency RF).

Can I split up a ZEN Smoke Alarm bundle pack and use in separate properties?

Yes, absolutely! Whilst ZEN bundle packs arrive to you already pre-interconnected as one group, alarms in a bundle pack can still be split up. For example, you may prefer to split a 10-pack smoke alarm bundle into two separate groups by having 5 alarms in one property and 5 in another property (each group functioning independently of the other). You can even purchase extra ZEN alarms to add into a bundle pack group and make it bigger. It’s fully flexible and up to you to decide. Configuring a new interconnected fire alarm group takes less than 2 minutes – our ZEN Quick-Start video shows how!

How do I tell if my photoelectric smoke alarms are interconnected?

It is not possible to tell if photoelectric smoke alarms are interconnected simply by looking at them. There is one certain way to find out if smoke alarms are interconnected though, and that is by testing them. Press the test button once on any smoke alarm in the group (or use the optional remote control), and if they are interconnected then all smoke alarms should activate their audible alarm and flashing red LED, usually within about 5 seconds of the first one starting.

How do I stop my interconnectable smoke alarms going off?

As per Australian Standard 3786:2014, all ZEN interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms will activate their audible alarm when smoke is detected by any one alarm in the group, however, only the source alarm detecting the real smoke will also flash its visual red LED – this allows you to quickly identify which room the fire may be located in.

Additionally, if all ZEN interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms are going off, pressing the silence button on any alarm in the group (or by using the remote control) will silence them, except for the one source alarm which is detecting the real smoke, again allowing you to instantly identify which room or area where the problem is located. Pressing the silence button a second time will then silence all interconnected smoke alarms in the group. Easy.

Conclusion

Interconnectable smoke alarms are a game-changer in home fire safety, offering faster, smarter, and more reliable protection. By ensuring all alarms sound simultaneously, they provide crucial extra seconds to escape in an emergency. These alarms are especially vital for larger homes, where fires can spread quickly and delay warnings. With Queensland’s 2027 legislation requiring interconnectable smoke alarms in all dwellings, there’s never been a better time to upgrade. Investing in these alarms not only keeps your home compliant but also significantly enhances safety for you and your loved ones. Don’t wait until it’s too late—install interconnectable smoke alarms today and experience the peace of mind that comes with vastly superior fire protection and early warning alerts.

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

Fire prevention and preparedness are paramount in your home. In addition to the early fire warning provided by your ZEN Interconnected Smoke Alarm, there is another hero in the toolkit of safety measures: the humble ZEN fire blanket. This unassuming yet highly effective tool can make a significant difference in protecting both your home and loved ones in the event of a fire emergency.

ZEN Fire Blanket – Immediate Action, Minimal Effort!

Imagine a small kitchen fire erupts from a stovetop mishap – a greasy fry pan suddenly ignites, sending panic through the air. This is when the ZEN fire blanket shines. Unlike a fire extinguisher that requires knowledge of operation and can potentially spread the fire if not used correctly, a fire blanket simply requires you to grab it and place it gently over the flames. The fire is quickly smothered as the blanket starves it of oxygen, effectively extinguishing it with minimal effort, and preventing it from spreading.

Fire Blankets Are Safe And Easy To Use

One of the greatest advantages of the ZEN fire blanket is its simplicity. Designed to be user-friendly even in stressful situations, it doesn’t involve any complex mechanisms or technical knowledge. Simply pull down on the quick-release tabs, and the ZEN fire blanket slides out from its protective pouch, ready to use. This makes it ideal for everyone in the household, including children and elderly family members who may find fire extinguishers intimidating or difficult to operate. Plus, unlike extinguishers, fire blankets don’t require regular maintenance or refilling, ensuring they remain a reliable, ready-to-use fire safety tool at all times.

Versatility In Application

While commonly associated with kitchen fires, fire blankets are versatile and can be used in other various scenarios. They are effective not only on stovetop fires but also on BBQ fires or fires caused by accidents around the home. Having a fire blanket means you’re prepared for these unpredictable moments, giving you confidence in your ability to respond to emergencies. In addition to the kitchen, you may also consider installing a fire blanket in the following locations; outdoor BBQ area, caravan, garage, car, workshop, boat, home office, backyard shed, carport or granny flat.

Receive Your FREE Fire Blanket With

Every ZEN Interconnected Smoke Alarm Bundle

For a limited time, every ZEN interconnected smoke alarm bundle pack purchased (5-pack, 7-pack, 10-pack) will automatically receive a free ZEN fire blanket (in addition to the bonus smoke alarm remote control). The ZEN fire blanket perfectly complements the ZEN interconnected smoke alarm range – level up your home protection today!

ZEN fire blanket - included for free with all ZEN interconnected smoke alarm bundle packs
ZEN fire blanket – included for free with all ZEN interconnected smoke alarm bundle packs

Peace Of Mind

A ZEN fire blanket provides peace of mind, additional to your ZEN interconnected smoke alarms. It’s a proactive step towards ensuring the safety of your household, and empowers you to take action in the face of a fire emergency. Knowing you have a fire blanket readily accessible helps alleviate anxiety and instils a sense of confidence that you’re prepared for the unexpected.

Fire Blanket Conclusion

Whilst we all hope to never face a fire emergency, preparedness is key to safeguarding our homes and loved ones. A ZEN fire blanket stands as a reliable ally in this mission, offering simplicity, effectiveness, and peace of mind—all packed into a compact, easily accessible tool. Consider adding a ZEN fire blanket to your ZEN interconnected smoke alarm arsenal; it’s a small investment that can yield invaluable protection when every second counts.

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