Replacing Existing Mains Wired Smoke Detectors

BargainJunky

I'm contacting two electricians tomorrow (one recommended by a neighbour and one that is local to me) for quotes to replace two mains wired smoke detectors. They have been installed since the house was built 15 years ago and have developed a fault so need replacing urgently. I burnt lunch :rotfl:and the noise that they emitted could hardly be heard.

Could anyone give me an idea on how much this is likely to cost - if one of the quotes 'comes close' I will get them to carry it out asap due to the safety aspect.

Also could anyone recommend the best type of detector to have installed - at the moment ours are circular, mains wired with a battery back up, one situated in the hallway and one at the top of the stairs.

zax47

~£20-25 each plus a couple of hours labour, tops, no more than~ £100 total. (at least that's what I'd charge here in West Yorks)

Optical ones are more suited to slow, smouldering fires (like furniture) whereas Ionisation types are more suited to fast flaring fires (like electrical equipment/chip pans etc.) Typically <£10+ for Ionisation, <£20+ for Optical - both types mains fed with battery backup.

I ought to add, that's all assuming that once the old ones are out that the circuit tests OK and isn't faulty in itself!

baldelectrician

Making a couple of assumptions here-
They are wired correctly, and interlinked.

2 detectors @ £18.00 each = £36.00
Labour 1 hour @ 37.50
Total £70-£80

I would reccomend Aico Easifit EI 141 detectors as you can change them yourself if one gets damaged as they have an integtated base

simples

zax47

Evening b-e, love the Aico stuff, that's what I'd be fitting! 141 is the Ionisation type, 146 is the Optical. I'd stick a 141 at the top of the stairs and a 146 or 141 in the hall. (but that's just me).

BargainJunky

Thanks everyone for the replies I knew I could rely on the wonderful advice on here. I now have a rough idea on cost and recommendations on what detectors to ask for.

Thank you.