Smoke alarms
We tested 20 models to see which respond fastest to smoke.
Family Shield
FS-588HLL
worth considering
Avg price
$17
Test results
- 60Ease of use
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How we test
Overall score is based on smouldering and flaming fire sensitivity.
“Good” or “OK” meant the alarm sounded quickly enough to alert you to danger.
“Poor” meant the alarm took significantly longer to sound.
“Extreme” sensitivity meant the alarm sounded so quickly they are more likely to issue false alarms.
Ease of use includes instructions and ease of installation.
See "About our test" for more information.
Noise is measured in a quiet room 3m from the alarm.
Price is from a March 2018 price survey.
More test results
- Smouldering fire sensitivity
Good
- Flaming fire sensitivity
OK
Model
- Avg price
$17
- Alarm type
Photoelectric
- Noise (dBA)
97
- Battery type
Sealed lithium
- Size
Standard
Features
- Battery life (years)
10
- Alarm life (years)
10
- Warranty (yrs)
10
- Hush period (min)
10
- Carbon monoxide alarm
- Alarms can be linked
- Voice alerts
More info
- Notes
-
- Availability
-
Absolute rubbish - false alarms
Pros
Nothing
Cons
Bought five of these from Bunnings in June 2019. By May 2020, we have replaced one because the battery went flat, and are about to replace another because it is giving us multiple false alarms. These should never have passed NZS/AS in my opinion.
Recommend it?
No, this product has too many drawbacks.
Chris F
Used 6 months or more