Tag: QLD smoke alarm

When it comes to protecting your home and family, there’s one device that quietly stands guard 24/7: your smoke alarm. But did you know that not all smoke alarms are created equal? As Queensland races towards the 2027 smoke alarm law deadline, now is the perfect time to upgrade to the gold standard—photoelectric smoke alarms.

If you’re wondering why these alarms are the preferred choice for modern Queensland homes, you’re in the right place. In fact, brands like ZEN Smoke Alarms make upgrading easier than ever with completely wireless alarms powered by a non-removable 10-year battery. That means you can DIY install them in minutes—no electrician, no hassle, no extra costs.

Let’s explore why photoelectric smoke alarms should be at the top of your home safety checklist.

What Are Photoelectric Smoke Alarms?

At their core, photoelectric smoke alarms detect smoke using a light sensor and a beam of light inside the alarm chamber. Inside the alarm, there’s a light source and a sensor positioned at an angle. When smoke enters the chamber, it scatters the light, directing it towards the sensor and triggering the alarm. This method excels at detecting smouldering fires—the type most likely to fill your home with deadly smoke while you sleep.

Think of interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms as the early warning system your home needs. They detect danger before it becomes deadly, giving you and your family precious extra minutes to escape.

Why Photoelectric Smoke Alarms Are

The Preferred Choice in Queensland

1. Faster Detection of the Most Dangerous Fires

The most common cause of fire-related deaths isn’t flames—it’s smoke inhalation. Many house fires start as smouldering fires, often caused by:

  • Faulty wiring
  • Overheated appliances
  • Unattended candles
  • Cigarettes left burning

These fires can smoulder for hours, silently filling your home with lethal smoke. Photoelectric smoke alarms detect these fires much faster than old-style ionisation alarms, which are designed to respond to fast-flaming fires but often miss slow-burning ones until it’s too late.

Early detection = more time to escape = lives saved.

2. Fewer Annoying False Alarms

We’ve all experienced it: you’re cooking breakfast, the toast gets a little too crispy, and suddenly your smoke alarm is screaming like there’s a five-alarm blaze. Traditional ionisation alarms are notorious for these false alarms because they’re sensitive to even the smallest smoke particles.

Photoelectric smoke alarms are much smarter. They’re designed to detect real threats—like actual fires—while ignoring harmless cooking smoke or bathroom steam. This means:

  • Fewer false alarms
  • Less frustration
  • No more disabling alarms out of annoyance (which is extremely dangerous!)

3. Compliant with Queensland’s 2027 Smoke Alarm Laws

From January 1, 2027, Queensland’s new laws will require:

  • Photoelectric smoke alarms in every bedroom, hallway, and on every level of your home
  • Interconnected alarms, so if one goes off, they all do
  • Alarms powered by either mains electricity with battery backup or a sealed 10-year battery

If your home still has ionisation alarms—or worse, no smoke alarms—it’s time to upgrade. ZEN Smoke Alarms meet all these legal requirements, ensuring your home is not only safe but fully compliant.

4. No Electrician Needed—Save Time and Money

Here’s where ZEN Smoke Alarms really shine:

  • Completely wireless—no hardwiring required
  • Non-removable 10-year battery—no battery replacements needed
  • DIY-friendly installation—you can set them up in minutes

This means:

  • No expensive electrician bills
  • No drilling holes or running wires through your ceiling
  • Huge time and cost savings

Just mount, test, and you’re done. It’s that simple. Hardwired alarms must be used, though, for new house builds, substantial renovations, or when replacing an already hardwired smoke alarm.

5. Long-Lasting, Low-Maintenance Protection

Nobody enjoys waking up to the dreaded “low battery” chirp at 2 a.m. With ZEN’s sealed 10-year lithium battery, you won’t have to worry about that. These alarms are designed to last a full decade without any battery changes.

Less maintenance. More peace of mind.

6. Safer for You and the Environment

Unlike old ionisation alarms, which contain a small amount of radioactive material (yes, really), photoelectric smoke alarms are completely radiation-free. They’re safer for your family and easier to dispose of when they reach the end of their lifespan.

Why Choose ZEN Photoelectric Smoke Alarms?

At ZEN Smoke Alarms, we don’t just sell products—we’re passionate about saving lives. Here’s what sets us apart:

✅ Photoelectric technology for faster, more reliable fire detection

✅ Completely wireless design for easy DIY installation

✅ Non-removable 10-year battery—no maintenance required

✅ Certified to Australian Standard 3786:2014—fully compliant with QLD laws

✅ Bonus remote control for easy testing and silencing

✅ FREE fire blanket with every ZEN Smoke Alarm bundle pack purchase (5/7/10-pack)

✅ Australian-owned and operated with local support—no offshore call centres

How to Properly Install Your Smoke Alarms

For maximum protection, follow these installation guidelines:

  • Bedrooms: Install a smoke alarm inside every bedroom.
  • Hallways: Place alarms in hallways outside sleeping areas.
  • Multi-story dwelling: At least one smoke alarm on each level of the property
  • Ceiling Placement: Mount alarms on the ceiling, at least 30cm away from walls and light fixtures.
  • Interconnection: Ensure all alarms are interconnected for full-home coverage.

Common Myths About Smoke Alarms

Myth #1: “I Have a Smoke Alarm, So I’m Safe.”

Not necessarily! If your smoke alarm is outdated, ionisation-based, or not interconnected, your safety is compromised. Only photoelectric, interconnected alarms offer the best protection.

Myth #2: “Smoke Alarms Are Expensive and Hard to Install.”

ZEN Smoke Alarms are affordable, easy to install, and require no electrician. The cost of upgrading is nothing compared to the price of losing your home or a loved one.

Myth #3: “I Don’t Need to Worry Until 2027.”

Fires don’t wait for legislation. Every day without a proper smoke alarm increases your risk.

Don’t Wait Until 2027—Upgrade Your Home Now

Sure, the 2027 deadline might seem far away, but fires don’t wait for legislation. Every day without proper protection puts your family at unnecessary risk.

Order your ZEN Smoke Alarm bundle today and enjoy:

🔥 Easy, DIY installation—no electrician needed

🔥 Bonus remote control for effortless testing

🔥 FREE fire blanket to boost your home safety

When it comes to fire safety, don’t cut corners. Choose ZEN Smoke Alarms—because your family’s life is worth it.

ZEN photoelectric smoke alarms and FPAA - your symbol of trust

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

Thinking about wireless smoke alarms on your new years resolutions list? As the new year dawns, it’s the perfect time to embrace fresh starts, set inspiring goals, and tackle those long-overdue home improvement projects. While most people are busy scribbling down resolutions like “exercise more” or “eat healthier,” why not add a truly life-changing goal to your list? This year, make your home safer and smarter by installing ZEN wireless smoke alarms. Trust us, it’s the easy DIY glow-up your home deserves for 2025.

Photoelectric smoke alarms New Years 2025

Why is January is the ideal month to make this upgrade? The new year is all about turning over a new leaf, and what better way to do that than by safeguarding your family’s safety? With ZEN’s wireless smoke alarms, you’re not just checking a box—you’re making a bold statement that safety comes first in your household. Plus, starting the year with such a proactive move sets the tone for an organized, responsible year ahead. Cue the applause!

ZEN Wireless Smoke Alarms To The Rescue!

Now, let’s get into the benefits. First off, ZEN wireless smoke alarms don’t just sit there looking stylish (though they do that, too). They’re workhorses that detect smoldering fires early—the kind that traditional ionization alarms might miss. And because they’re interconnected, if one photoelectric smoke alarm goes off, all alarms sound, ensuring you and your family have precious extra seconds to act. It’s like having a team of vigilant guardians keeping watch over your home, 24/7.

Did we mention the added value to your property? Savvy homeowners know that an interconnected photoelectric smoke alarm system isn’t just a safety feature; it’s an investment. If you ever decide to sell, prospective buyers will appreciate this forward-thinking upgrade, especially as Queensland’s new 2027 smoke alarm compliance law deadline looms. You’re not just protecting lives; you’re also protecting your bottom line. Cha-ching!

ZEN wireless smoke alarms in a white lounge room background

Wireless smoke alarms such as ZEN can add value to your home

Why Wireless Smoke Alarms Are The Smart Choice

When it comes to home upgrades, convenience and affordability are key. ZEN wireless smoke alarms tick all the boxes:

  • Wireless technology: No need for messy wiring—just mount and go!
  • Interconnected system: When one alarm sounds, they all do, ensuring maximum safety.
  • 10-year sealed battery: No changing batteries every year—just reliable, long-term protection.
  • Certified to Australian Standard 3786:2014: Certified and suitable for use in Queensland.

Wireless Smoke Alarms Can Be legally DIY Installed

Wireless smoke alarms such as ZEN have a non-removable 10-year battery and can be legally DIY installed by anyone—no special license required! Since there’s no electrical wiring involved, you can install them yourself without the need for an electrician. This means huge savings on installation costs while ensuring your home meets the latest safety standards.

Keep in mind, however, that 240V hardwired smoke alarms must be used in newly constructed homes, substantial renovations, or when replacing an existing hardwired smoke alarm in QLD.

How to Install ZEN Wireless Smoke Alarms in Minutes

DIY installing ZEN wireless smoke alarms is quick and hassle-free. With the included screws and mounting bracket, you can securely install each alarm in just minutes—no electrician needed! Simply follow these steps:

  1. Choose the optimal location (bedrooms, hallways, and every level of your home).
  2. Secure the mounting bracket to the ceiling using the provided screws.
  3. Attach the alarm to the bracket and test it using the included remote control.

Enjoy fast, reliable protection with our wireless interconnected smoke alarms, designed for easy setup and maximum fire safety in your home.

Bonus Perks: FREE Fire Blanket and Remote Control!

At ZEN Smoke Alarms, we believe that safety should come with a side of perks. That’s why every ZEN wireless smoke alarm bundle pack includes:

  • A bonus remote control: Easily test and silence alarms without climbing ladders.
  • A FREE fire blanket: Extra protection for your kitchen or any fire-prone area.

It’s our way of saying thanks for being proactive about your family’s safety!

FREE ZEN fire blanket with every ZEN smoke alarm bundle pack

A Smarter Resolution for 2025

This year, skip the expensive gym memberships you’ll abandon by February and make a resolution that truly matters. Installing ZEN wireless smoke alarms is the smartest, safest, and most rewarding way to kick off the year.

✅ Protect your home ✅ Safeguard your loved ones ✅ Enjoy lasting peace of mind

Go ahead, take the leap—your future self will thank you!

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

As summer arrives, Queenslanders embrace outdoor barbecues, festive gatherings, and long, sunny days. However, the warmer months also bring increased risks of fires from cooking, electrical overloads, and bushfires. Ensuring your home is fire-ready starts with understanding the importance of interconnected smoke alarms.

Why Interconnected Smoke Alarms Are Essential

Photoelectric interconnected smoke alarms such as ZEN are a must-have for every Queensland home. Unlike standalone alarms, interconnected photoelectric systems link all your smoke alarms, so when one detects smoke, they all sound the alarm. This gives you and your family precious extra time to escape, especially in larger homes or properties with multiple levels.

In fact, Queensland’s smoke alarm legislation for 2027 requires ALL homes to have photoelectric interconnected smoke alarms. By upgrading now, you’re not only complying with the law but also safeguarding your loved ones.

RF interconnected smoke alarms
RF interconnected smoke alarms

Interconnected Smoke Alarm Summer Fire Safety Tips


1 Test Your Photoelectric Interconnected Smoke Alarms

  • Press the test button on each smoke alarm monthly to ensure all alarms activate properly and the interconnected smoke alarm system is functioning correctly. Regular testing helps identify any issues early, ensuring your home remains protected.
  • Vacuum around the interconnected smoke alarms and gently wipe them with a dry cloth to remove dust, cobwebs, or debris that might affect their performance. Keeping them clean prevents false alarms and ensures they detect smoke effectively, giving you the earliest possible warning in an emergency. Consider setting a reminder to perform these maintenance tasks regularly for optimal fire safety.

2 Upgrade to Photoelectric Interconnected Smoke Alarms

  • ZEN photoelectric interconnected smoke alarms are better at detecting smouldering fires, which are common in home environments.
  • Pairing photoelectric technology with an interconnected smoke alarm system is the ultimate fire safety solution.

3 Have a Fire Escape Plan

  • Practice evacuating your home regularly with all household members and establish a clear, safe meeting point outside—such as the letterbox or a designated tree—so everyone knows where to go in an emergency. Conduct both daytime and nighttime drills to ensure preparedness in different scenarios.
  • Keep a spare set of house keys in an easily accessible location, such as near an exit or with a trusted neighbor, to facilitate a quick and safe escape if needed.
  • Interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms provide an early warning by triggering all alarms simultaneously, giving you valuable extra time to act, wake up sleeping family members, and exit safely.

4 Be BBQ Safe During Summer

  • Unattended cooking is a leading cause of house fires – never leave the grill unattended.
  • Keep a fire blanket or extinguisher within easy reach.
  • Position your barbecue away from combustible materials, such as curtains, plants, or outdoor furniture. A safe distance can help prevent fire accidents.
  • Always turn off the gas or unplug the electric BBQ when you’re finished.

5 Prepare for QLD Summer Bushfires

  • Clear gutters, trim trees, and have an emergency plan ready if you live near bushfire-prone areas.
  • Know your Fire Danger Rating (FDR) – an FDR describes the potential level of danger should a bushfire start.
  • Ensure vehicles have sufficient fuel and move them to a safe location.
  • Wet down the sides of buildings, decks and plants close to your home in the likely path of the bushfire.

ZEN Photoelectric Smoke Alarms: Your Partner in Summer Safety

Protecting your home has never been easier with ZEN Smoke Alarms. Our photoelectric interconnected smoke alarm bundle packs (5, 7, 10-pack bundles) include state-of-the-art photoelectric interconnected smoke alarms that meet Queensland’s 2027 requirements. Plus, every ZEN bundle pack comes with a bonus remote control for effortless testing and a free fire blanket for added home protection and peace of mind.

Make this summer a safe and enjoyable season by ensuring your home is equipped with photoelectric interconnected smoke alarms. Upgrade today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing your family is protected. Stay safe, Queensland!

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

Queensland is undergoing a phased roll-out of new smoke alarm legislation, culminating in 2027. It is unsurprising then that there is misinformation regarding smoke alarm requirements – particularly surrounding the installation of wireless 10-year battery powered smoke alarms vs 240V hardwired smoke alarms.

Can I Install Wireless 10-year Battery Powered

Smoke Alarms In QLD?

YES! you can. It is legal and perfectly acceptable to install wireless 10-year battery powered smoke alarms in your Queensland home, provided you are not performing any of the 3 activities below;

  1. Constructing a new home
  2. Performing a substantial renovation
  3. Replacing an existing 240V hardwired smoke alarm

Prior to installing any type of photoelectric smoke alarm, it’s important to understand the differences between alarm types and when each is permissible according to current legislation. The information contained in this article is sourced directly from the QLD Government and the QLD Fire Department, providing the most up-to-date legal requirements for smoke alarm installations. We encourage you to review and read the legislation for yourself to ensure full compliance with safety regulations. Direct links to all official government sources are included at the bottom of this article for your convenience. Understanding these requirements is key to ensuring you have the correct smoke alarm type (wireless battery powered or hardwired) in place for your home’s safety and compliance needs.

Queensland’s Building Fire Safety (Domestic Smoke Alarms) Legislation Amendment Regulation 2016 prescribes the legal ways of powering smoke alarms for domestic dwellings. It states that both 240V hardwired smoke alarms and 10-year battery powered smoke alarms are allowed. See the excerpt below;

Queensland’s Fire Department website states that 10-year battery powered smoke alarms are acceptable, provided the three scenarios previously mentioned above are not being performed.

QLD Fire Department hardwired smoke alarm vs wireless battery powered smoke alarm requirements
QLD Fire Department hardwired smoke alarm vs wireless battery powered smoke alarm requirements

Advantages Of A 10-year Wireless Battery Fire Alarm

  • A wireless battery fire alarm powered by a 10-year non-removable battery offers the ultimate convenience and cost-effectiveness. These alarms can be easily DIY installed, eliminating the need for an electrician and saving you on installation costs.
  • The sealed battery inside the smoke alarm ensures it lasts for the entire 10-year lifespan, meaning you won’t have to deal with the hassle of replacing batteries or the annoying low battery chirp. After 10 years, the entire alarm unit is simply swapped out for a new one, providing long-term peace of mind. Smoke alarms with conventional 9V replaceable batteries will not be permitted in QLD by 2027.
  • In addition to these benefits, wireless fire alarms offer added versatility through wireless RF interconnection. This feature ensures that all alarms will sound simultaneously if one detects smoke, providing greater safety and quicker alerts. In some situations, it may be physically impossible to install 240V hardwired smoke alarms, such as in homes with solid concrete ceilings or no roof cavity. For these homes, a wireless smoke alarm is the ideal solution.

Do QLD Smoke Alarms Need To Be Hardwired By 2027?

NO, they don’t. Although there are a lot of houses built in Queensland that require hardwired smoke alarms, there are just as many that have the option to use wireless 10-year battery powered photoelectric smoke alarms and still be 100% compliant with the latest regulations. These alarms offer a convenient, cost-effective solution without the need for complicated wiring or professional installation.

When Must I Install a 240V Hardwired Smoke Alarm In QLD?

There are 3 situations in Queensland where it is a statutory requirement for 240V hardwired smoke alarms to be installed in a domestic dwelling (and 10-year battery powered smoke alarms may not be used). Outside of these 3 scenarios it is acceptable to install 10-year battery powered smoke alarms in your home.

1) If You Are Constructing A New Home

If you are constructing a new home in QLD then hardwired smoke alarms are required as part of the building approval process. Queensland’s Building Regulation 2021 states that when constructing a new home, the smoke alarms must be hardwired to the domestic dwelling’s electricity supply.

2) If You Are Performing A Substantial Renovation

The Queensland Fire Services Act 1990 states that hardwired smoke alarms must be installed when a substantial renovation is being performed to a domestic dwelling. A definition of a ‘substantial renovation’ is provided within the act.

3) If You Are Replacing An Existing Hardwired Smoke Alarm

The Queensland Fire Services Act 1990 also states that if a pre-existing smoke alarm being replaced was hardwired to the domestic dwelling’s electricity supply, then the replacement smoke alarm must be hardwired to the dwelling’s electricity supply.

Outside of the 3 scenarios described above, it is legal and perfectly acceptable in QLD to install wireless interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms which are

powered by a non-removeable 10-year battery.

Want to do some further reading? Links to all official sources in this article are provided below.

You may also want to check out our other blog post ‘What do the QLD smoke alarm laws actually state?‘

QLD Building Fire Safety (Domestic Smoke Alarms) Legislation Amendment Regulation 2016

States that both 240V hardwired smoke alarms and 10-year battery powered smoke alarms are allowed in domestic QLD dwellings.

QLD Building Regulation 2021

States that when constructing a new home in QLD, the smoke alarms must be hardwired to the domestic dwelling’s electricity supply.

QLD Fire and Services Act 1990 (formerly known as the QLD Fire and Emergency Services Act 1990)

States hardwired smoke alarms must be installed when performing a substantial renovation or replacing an existing hardwired smoke alarm.

QLD Fire Department website – 2027 Smoke Alarm Legislation Fact Sheet

States that interconnected smoke alarms must be either hardwired or powered by a non-removable 10 year battery, or a combination of both may be allowed.

States that existing hardwired smoke alarms that need replacement must be replaced with a hardwired smoke alarm.

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