We tested 20 models to see which respond fastest to smoke.
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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.
Good
Good
$20
Photoelectric
91
Sealed lithium
Standard
10
10
10
10
-
Mitre10 only.
Jobmate brand smoke alarm
Pros
Lasted the longest, only one of four units lasted six years, finally went off without any good reason in June 2020.
Cons
Of four Jobmate, 3 required replacing within last 3 years, the last taken down this month, due to expire 2024. This brand were replacements from other photoelectric 10 year long life brands that had also failed. I'm left with lots of different holes in the ceiling depending on the size of their ceiling plates. Out of maybe 4 different types in the last 8 years, this was probably more reliable but still none have reached the 10 year mark!
Recommend it?
No, this product has too many drawbacks.
Rita M.
Used 6 months or more