Customer Service
Wish List Warenkorb

Smoke Detectors


Designer Smoke Detectors - Lifesavers with Style

Since a German campaign for fire protection awareness in the year 2000, the installation of smoke alarms in private residential premises is becoming a legal requirement in more places. Not without reason: The damage caused annually by fires in private homes are enormous - and not just material. Smoke detectors save lives.

So, small flashing boxes decorate the ceilings in more and more homes. While most smoke detectors only meet their given purpose, others surprise with unusual designs and unexpected functionality. Learn what you should consider when buying this small life saver.

The Right Smoke Detector - Watch Out for the following when Buying One:

1. Size and dimensions
2. Design
3. Alarm
4. Certification
5. Features
6. Accessories

1. Size and Weight - Almost Invisible

The smallest smoke detectors are just about the size of a golf ball. The Jo-El Invisible doesn’t have its name for nothing. Almost invisible state-of-the-art electronics are hidden in the small enclosure. The compact format brought the baby product the iF Product Design Award in 2011. Find the dimensions of individual detectors on their respective product pages under properties.

2. Design: Subdued vs Standout

Whoever believes that the point of a smoke detector is technology and functionality is wrong. Designers such as Harri Koskinen, Jacob Jensen and Paola Suhonen have designed creative concepts that combine technology and design. You have the choice: modern designer smoke detectors are either nearly invisible or stand out and are decorative. While the Jalo Kupu fire alarm consists of a unique, refined button that hides disruptive grooves and other buttons, the Lento has the shape of a moth. Multiple colours make the small knob either invisibly disappear under the cover or make it a colourful eye-catcher. Many of the designer smoke detectors from our interior design shop carry titles recognised worldwide, such as the Red Dot design prize.

3. Alarm: Acoustic and Visual

In case of increased smoke levels, smoke detectors give out a loud, high-pitched signal. In addition, some devices are equipped with a visual alarm. The light signal serves as confirmation that all functions are in order or announces a pending flat battery. The alarm tone may vary. Refer to the respective product pages for information on the properties of each smoke alarm.

4. Certification - Certified Safety

How do you recognise good smoke detectors? VdS certifications - German safety accreditations - guarantee the highest standards in the areas of fire protection and security. If a smoke detector is awarded with this certification, the unit has been tested by this independent institution on the basis of legal guidelines and classified requirements of smoke detectors. The most important are the DIN 14676 (application standard for smoke detectors), which primarily regulates installation, commissioning and maintenance, and the DIN EN 14604 (product standard for smoke detectors), which regulates the minimum requirements and equipment of smoke detectors.

5. Features: What can a smoke detector do beyond the standard function?

In addition to the minimum requirements, many smoke detectors offer some additional features. Some reduce smoke sensitivity for a few minutes to avoid false alarms. Others are able to adjust the smoke sensor every day automatically in order to attain perfect smoke recognition. Learn more about the specific benefits of the devices on each product page.

6. Accessories: Installation and Battery

Which accessories are included? An installation kit is included, saving you the additional cost and effort of searching for suitable screws and wall plugs. Some smoke detectors contain special ceiling brackets into which you can simply snap the device, others are so easy that they simply adhere to the ceiling with tape. The Jacob Jensen smoke detectors even come with gift wrapping.

Also, you should check whether a battery is contained or whether it is firmly installed. Here the question arises of the life of the battery. According to product standards for smoke detectors, battery-operated devices must make do with the same energy source for at least one year. However smoke detectors with integrated batteries often have a life span of five to ten years.

Frequently Asked Questions on the Topic

Where should you install smoke detectors? Smoke detectors should be installed on the ceiling in bedrooms, children's rooms and corridors which serve as escape routes.

What triggers the alarm? Important! A smoke detector only detects smoke or fumes, but not carbon monoxide or gas.

What does it mean if the smoke detector beeps? Modern devices inform the owner with a beeping noise when battery performance is weakening. At least four weeks prior to the failure of the battery the smoke detector should begin to beep quietly every 30 seconds until the battery is changed.

Why does the smoke detector flash red? Depending on the model, a red LED light flashes if the battery is empty or as a signal for the unit is working without any problems. The exact purpose for the LED can be read in the operating instructions of the respective smoke detector.

How do you test smoke detectors? Experts recommend a weekly function test. For this, press the detector test button for a few seconds until a short beep is triggered. If there’s no alarm, the detector must be urgently repaired.

Designer Smoke Detectors by Connox - Your Advantages:

Shopping Advice at Connox

Want to buy designer smoke detectors online but need support? Contact our customer service whenever you like. We can assist you with your purchase with advice and practical assistance, make recommendations and can quickly resolve issues. Have us conveniently deliver your lifesaver directly to your door within a few workdays!