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Best Interconnect Smoke Alarms

Interconnect smoke alarms for New Builds in NZ

New Standards Effective November 2024
From November 2024, interconnected smoke alarms will be the minimum fire safety standard for household units in New Zealand. These alarms work together so that when one detects smoke, all alarms sound, ensuring everyone in the home is alerted regardless of where the fire starts. This change aligns New Zealand with NZS 4514:2021, which provides guidelines for installation, maintenance, and suitable detector types to minimize false alarms.

Installation Requirements
Interconnected smoke alarms must be installed in bedrooms, living areas, hallways, and on every level of multi-story homes. You can choose between wired alarms or wireless models with long-life batteries. New systems can be hardwired during construction, while battery-operated options offer a cost-effective solution for existing homes without the need for rewiring. There will be a one-year transition period for compliance, ending in November 2024. Renovations and changes in building use must also meet these new standards.

Key Features of Interconnected Smoke Alarms:

  • Enhanced Safety: If one alarm activates, all alarms sound, providing a greater warning time and increasing escape chances.

Types of Interconnectivity:

  • Wired: Alarms are hardwired into the home’s electrical system.
  • Wireless: Alarms communicate wirelessly, simplifying installation, especially in existing homes.

Compliance Standards
Interconnected smoke alarms must comply with the following standards in New Zealand. Ensure that the alarms you install meet these requirements; consult with an electrician or request a Supplier Declaration of Conformity (SDOC) when purchasing directly:

  • AS 3786
  • UL 217
  • CAN/ULC S531
  • BS EN 14604
  • ISO 12239

Checks and Maintenance

  • Monthly Testing: Each smoke alarm should be tested at least once a month using the “test” function.
  • Cleaning: Inspect and clean alarms every six months with a soft brush to remove dust and insects. Avoid using liquid cleaners as they can damage the alarm’s electrical system.
  • Battery Replacement: Interconnected smoke alarms typically come with non-removable sealed batteries and should be replaced when you receive a low battery indication or by the expiry date.
  • Replacement Schedule: Other smoke alarms should be replaced after ten years from the date of manufacture, unless otherwise stated by the manufacturer.

If you’re considering a DIY installation, follow the manufacturer’s mounting instructions and use the provided brackets. Alternatively, hire a qualified electrician for professional installation.

Locations to Avoid

Consult a qualified technician for advice on alarm placement tailored to your home design. Some general guidelines include avoiding installation in:

  • Dead air spaces
  • Within 300 mm of a light fitting
  • Within 400 mm of any air supply opening
  • Next to or above heater or air-conditioning vents
  • Near opening windows or vents that may alter airflow
  • Dusty or dirty environments
  • Within 1 meter of a cooktop

Where to Buy Interconnected Smoke Alarms in NZ

When looking to purchase high-quality interconnected smoke alarms, consider the following options:

  1. Home Improvement Stores: Such as Bunnings Warehouse or Mitre 10.
  2. Electrical Supply Stores: Local suppliers such as Sparky Shop 
  3. Online Retailers: Amazon, eBay, or specialized safety equipment websites.
  4. Trusted Brands: Look for reputable brands like ORCA

By keeping these factors in mind, you can ensure the effective installation and maintenance of interconnected smoke alarms in your home.

Here are two top-rated interconnected smoke alarms that are highly regarded for their features and reliability:

1. Wireless 10Y Lithium Battery Interconnect Smoke Alarm

  • Key Features:
    • This smoke alarm can be silenced with any existing remote control in your home
    • Collection Type: Smoke
    • Battery life: 10 YearsCompliance Standard: AS 3786:2014
    • Warranty: 10 years

2. Wireless 10 Year Interconnect Smoke Alarm

  • Key Features:
    • Photoelectric sensor – best at sensing smoke from slow smouldering fires
    • Ideal for living rooms, hallways and bedrooms
    • Test button
    • Hush feature
    • Meets NZ Government 2016 Rental Housing Legislation, and complies with NZS 4514:202
    • Warranty – 10 Years 

 

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