Updated 27 Apr 2018
Goldair
GS-526
Bottom line: This photoelectric smoke alarm is good at detecting both smouldering and flaming fires. It has a 10-year battery.
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Test results
Overall score
Good points
- Good at detecting smouldering fires.
- Good at detecting flaming fires.
- OK to use.
- Has a 10-year battery.
But
No obvious bad points.
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 (/10) 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.
Key data
Test results
Smouldering fire sensitivity
Flaming fire sensitivity
Ease of use
Model
Avg price
Alarm type
Noise (dBA)
Battery type
Size
Features
Battery life (years)
Alarm life (years)
Warranty (yrs)
Hush period (min)
Carbon monoxide alarm
Alarms can be linked
Voice alerts
Member reviews
"Alarm won't stop"
15 Sep 2018, Jean M.
Product use: 1 - 3 months
Pros:
Nothing
Cons:
The alarm keeps activating for no reason and at this stage I am unable to deactivate it. I don't have this issue with other photoelectric alarms in the house and will be replacing it with another brand. As it appears there is no way to stop the alarm I'm going to have to dump it with the alarm going. I'm not going to be able to return it to the retailer - it is too far to drive with an alarm continuously going.
Recommend it?
No, this product has too many drawbacks.
"Good buy from the supermarket"
28 Apr 2018, Damon C.
Product use: 1 - 3 months
Pros:
Easy to get hold of - bought at our local Countdown supermarket. Looking forward to 10 years battery life.
Cons:
Because of the location ours is installed I needed to use a longer screw than the one supplied. The longer screw had a thicker head and as result a the install was more difficult than I expected (initially it wouldn't lock onto the base properly).
Recommend it?
Yes, I recommend this product.
