WiFi smoke detector - you should pay attention to this when buying
In most federal states, it is already mandatory to install several smoke detectors in the house. Buying a WiFi smoke detector has several advantages. For example, you can query the battery level on your smartphone. In this practical tip, we explain what you should also consider when buying a WLAN smoke detector.
What are the advantages of a smoke detector with WLAN?
Smoke detectors can save lives. In addition to conventional security devices, there are now smoke detectors that are internet-enabled and network-operated. The advantages of such a device include:
- The smoke detector automatically sends notifications to your smartphone and informs you about dangers and the maintenance status of the device.
- Other events (e.g. broken door) also trigger the alarm.
- The smoke detector also works in the event of a power failure or when the WLAN is switched off.
- In an emergency, a click on your smartphone is enough to call the emergency number.
- If there are several smoke detectors in the house, the detectors are interconnected. If one device detects smoke, the other detectors are radioed. All detectors then give an alarm.
What is important when buying a WLAN smoke detector?
It is particularly important to pay attention to the quality when buying a security device. The following aspects can help you with your purchase decision:
- In order to be able to use a WLAN smoke detector, you must have WLAN in the entire house. The WLAN smoke detector should also work when the WLAN in the house is switched off.
- The device should be certified according to the DIN EN 14604 standard. This product standard specifies performance criteria, test methods and requirements of the smoke detector.
- A VdS-Q certification mark should be excellent. It guarantees maximum alarm security in the event of a fire and stands for a quality smoke detector.
- The smoke detector should have a minimum frequency of 400 MHz for optimal wireless transmission of the data.
- A volume of at least 75 dB is required so that the alarm can be heard everywhere.
- To avoid the hassle of changing batteries, make sure that a 10-year long-term battery (3.6 V lithium) is installed in the device. The battery offers you long-lasting security.
- If you need several smoke detectors in the house, then all detectors should have a large radio radius.
Stiftung Warentest: Good quality doesn't have to be expensive
Stiftung Warentest has started a large comparison test in many federal states because of the smoke alarm requirement. Networked models were also put through their paces.
- The WLAN smoke detectors were tested for reliability of detection, battery life, stability of the radio connection and robustness.
- The Ei 650 M from Ei Electronics was the test winner for the networked smoke detectors. For about 80 euros you get the most reliable smoke detector with a grade of 2.2.
- For 30 euros less per module, you get the second-placed Angel ST 630 with a grade of 2.3. In contrast to the Ei 650 M, only a loud test alarm resulted in a small smear in the final grade.
If you decide to buy a WiFi smoke detector, take the time to compare different devices.