If you are considering the purchase of heat detectors for your home or business, you will have noticed that you can have a battery operated model (which is usually the cheaper option) or a mains heat detector, and you may be wondering which is the best.

Heat detectors are the best option in places where there may be smoke and fumes as part of the everyday operation of the area.

Kitchens and garages are particularly affected, which means that a smoke detector installed in places such as these could be sounding regular false alarms.

Heat detectors, on the other hand, detect a rise in temperature.

Both the mains and the battery detectors can come in three different detecting solutions.

They may be set to trigger at a specific temperature (usually at 58ºC, ± 4ºC), or they may detect a sudden rise in temperature. You can also buy a model which performs both functions.

Worried about fires in your property? Check out for these kitchen fire safety tips from Kent Fire And Rescue Service!

Mains Heat Detector

Of course, if you install a mains heat detector you also have the cost of cabling.
However, to get around this in premises where you need to link to other alarms, you can now purchase a model which will perform this function via a radio frequency.

This not only saves on the cost of wiring, but also eliminates the possibility of accidental mis-wiring of other detectors.

Most mains-operated heat detectors come with a 9v battery back-up to cover the possibility of power outages. These are normally capable of lasting up to four years in stand-by mode and may power the alarm for up to two years without mains power. However, most fire brigades recommend changing batteries in such devices annually.

Battery Heat Detectors

Battery-operated heat sensors are often used as stand-alone units in situations where there is a need for just one in the kitchen and one in the garage - like most houses or flats.

These are now available with a ten year life sealed lithium battery. After this period, the detector will need to be replaced with a new unit.

Once again, these can be designed to trigger when a certain temperature is reached, or may detect a rapid rise in temperature.

As with the mains heat detector, you can also get a unit which does both.
The advantage of the latter is that it constantly monitors temperature change and will sound the alarm earlier if it predicts that the temperature will rise to a pre-determined threshold.

This means that an earlier warning is given in the case of fast flaming fires. You can learn more about the different types of fire alarms here.

Fire Alarm Systems From The Professionals

Overall, there is no clear winner as your installation will depend entirely on your property.

Important factors when choosing your alarm system include whether your alarm is for business or home, the size of the property and the functionality you want from your alarm.

With all alarm installations, it is best practice to discuss your needs with the experts. We will be happy to give you the benefit of our advice as to whether a mains heat detector or battery operated model is best for your circumstances.

Speak to an expert in fire protection

We understand what must be done to ensure a property is safe from the threat of fire. Our team are ready to take your call and assist you with any questions you may have about fire protection for your business.