Fire safety is something every homeowner should take seriously, and one of the most crucial components of any fire detection system is the fire detector battery. Without a reliable power source, your fire detector won’t be able to alert you in an emergency. Choosing the right fire detector battery can mean the difference between early warning and disaster.
Why Lithium Batteries In Interconnected Smoke Alarms?
Lithium batteries are used in interconnected smoke alarms due to their numerous advantages over traditional alkaline batteries. Conventional 9V alkaline smoke alarm batteries deplete rapidly and have to be replaced every year. The depleted alkaline battery causes the smoke alarm to emit what is known as the infamous low battery ‘chirp’. In an effort to silence the repetitive and annoying low battery chirp people removed the 9V smoke alarm battery, forgetting to replace it with a new one, often with disastrous consequences – fire alarms can only detect smoke if they have power.
Lithium batteries have a significantly longer lifespan, designed to last for 10 years, which aligns with the recommended replacement interval for interconnected smoke alarms themselves. This longevity reduces the need for frequent battery changes, minimizing the risk of having interconnected smoke detectors with a dead battery (or no battery), which could be life-threatening in a fire emergency.
Interconnected Smoke Alarms
Battery Reliability And Performance
Lithium batteries inside interconnected smoke alarms are also known for their stable voltage output. Unlike 9V alkaline batteries, which tend to lose power gradually, 3V lithium batteries maintain a consistent voltage until they are almost depleted. This stability is crucial in interconnected smoke alarms, where consistent power is needed to ensure reliable operation. Additionally, lithium batteries perform well in a wide range of temperatures, making them ideal for use in various parts of the home across different states and regions of Australia. The 10-year long life batteries sealed inside ZEN interconnected smoke alarms are non-removeable and non-replaceable. After 10 years the smoke alarms (including the batteries sealed inside them) are simply swapped out for new smoke alarms.
ZEN interconnected smoke alarms are powered by two small 3V lithium CR14505 batteries shown above
Are The Lithium Batteries Inside My
Interconnected Smoke Alarms A Fire Hazard?
No they aren’t. There are several reasons why we don’t hear news stories of lithium batteries spontaneously combusting inside interconnected smoke alarms. The 10-year long life lithium batteries in interconnected smoke alarms differ in design from lithium-ion batteries used in e-scooters, e-bikes etc. – it is these mobility devices which have seen a massive surge in the frequency of lithium battery fires as reported in the media. Interconnected smoke detectors contain two small 3V, single-use, lithium batteries sealed within the fire alarm itself.
These batteries are non-replaceable and are designed to deplete slowly and steadily over a 10-year lifespan. At the end of this period, the interconnected smoke alarms are disposed of in their entirety (including the batteries sealed inside), and new interconnected smoke alarms are installed in-situ. The same fire and thermal runaway risks associated with continuous and repeated recharging of large, high energy lithium-ion batteries used in e-bikes, e-scooters and other mobility devices are not present with the two small non-rechargeable lithium batteries inside interconnected smoke detectors.
Furthermore, large high energy lithium batteries used in mobility transportation devices are often physically damaged due to bumps or knocks (riding an e-bike or e-scooter over the curbside or on an uneven concrete footpath etc.) which may contribute to thermal battery runaway and pose a significant overheating / fire hazard. The same risk exposure for causing lithium battery damage is not present with interconnected smoke alarms attached to a ceiling – once installed they do not move or get subjected to damaging dynamic forces.
Safety Benefits of Interconnected Smoke Alarms
Interconnected smoke alarms provide a network of protection throughout the home. If one alarm detects smoke or fire, all connected alarms will sound, alerting occupants even if they are in a different part of the house. This is particularly important in larger homes or homes with multiple levels, where a fire might go unnoticed if alarms were not interconnected. The long life and reliability of a lithium fire detector battery enhance this system, ensuring that all the interconnected smoke alarms are functional and ready to alert occupants in case of an emergency.
When purchasing interconnected smoke alarms, it is essential to choose fire alarms that comply with Australian Standard 3786:2014, as indicated by the official Australian Standard red ‘5-tick’s mark on the packaging and the product itself. Product testing required of this standard helps ensure that the smoke alarm poses no electrical danger during normal use. Additionally, interconnected smoke alarms should carry the electrical Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM), affirming compliance with Australian electrical safety regulations outlined in Australian Standard 3820:2020. Avoiding cheap imported knock-offs without the RCM mark is crucial for fire detector battery safety – have a look at the rear of your interconnected smoke detectors today – do they have the Regulatory Compliance Mark?
ZEN Smoke Alarms are Australian Standard Certified and contain the Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM)
Fire Detector Battery Environmental Considerations
The lithium fire detector battery inside interconnected smoke alarms are also more environmentally friendly compared to their alkaline counterparts. Fewer replacements mean less waste, which is a positive step towards reducing the environmental impact. Additionally, many lithium batteries are recyclable, which further minimizes their footprint. Lithium-ion batteries are a source of many valuable materials. If recycled, potentially 95% of battery components can be recovered for alternative use or may even be turned into new batteries. B-cycle is Australia’s national battery recycling scheme, supporting a collection network for used batteries.
Fire Detector Battery – Conclusion
A high-quality fire detector battery is essential for keeping your smoke alarm functional and ensuring your home stays protected. Whether you have an older model with a replaceable fire detector battery or a modern alarm with a built-in 10-year battery, regular testing and maintenance are key.
When it comes to fire safety, don’t take chances—invest in a smoke alarm with a reliable fire detector battery and keep your loved ones safe. Choose ZEN Smoke Alarms for a trusted, long-lasting solution that ensures your safety for years to come.
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 Interconnected Smoke Alarms
New Farm, QLD, 4005