Honeywell Evohome wireless carbon monoxide sensor White

This category covers smoke, heat and carbon monoxide alarms for the home, and testers used by heating and electrical engineers, such as multimeters, thermometers, pressure testers and gas detectors.

Smoke and heat alarms

• Optical: better at detecting slow, smouldering fires, such as those starting in furniture or wiring.
• Ionisation: responds well to fast, flaming fires.
• Heat alarms: sense heat rather than smoke, and are the type recommended for kitchens.

Look for alarms made to BS EN 14604. Fit at least one on every floor, on the ceiling near the middle of the room or hallway and at least 30cm from walls and lights, and test them weekly. Sealed 10 year battery alarms avoid battery changes; mains alarms with battery backup keep working in a power cut, and their fixed wiring should be done by a competent person.

Carbon monoxide alarms

Choose CO alarms made to BS EN 50291, powered by a battery that lasts the life of the alarm or by fixed mains wiring. In England, a CO alarm should be fitted when a new or replacement fixed appliance burning solid fuel, gas or oil is installed, except gas cookers. Landlords in England must fit a smoke alarm on every storey used as living accommodation, and a CO alarm in any such room with a fixed combustion appliance other than a gas cooker.

Testers

Electrical test leads and probes should meet the BS EN 61010 safety standard and be marked CAT II, III or IV to suit the circuit. A gas detector helps trace leaks, but work on gas pipework, appliances and their gas parts must only be carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer.

For locks and security, see safety and security; for more test instruments, see smart testing devices.