Smart Smoke Alarm Setup Guide UK¶

Setting up smart smoke alarms in UK homes - WiFi-connected, app-controlled alarms with notifications for remote monitoring.

What Are Smart Smoke Alarms?¶

Smart smoke alarms connect to your home WiFi and send push notifications to your smartphone when smoke or CO is detected. They also allow remote silencing and integration with smart home systems like Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit. In the UK, leading smart alarms include the FireAngel Connected (from £35), Nest Protect (around £120), and Aico HomeLINK Gateway which enables remote monitoring of standard Aico alarms via a £60 hub. Smart alarms comply with BS 5839-6 and BS EN 14604. They feature self-testing, end-of-life alerts, and location-labelling so you know exactly which room triggered the alarm. Some models include voice alerts that announce the danger type and location.

Installation and Integration with Smart Home Systems¶

Installing a smart smoke alarm like Nest Protect is similar to a standard alarm but requires connection to your home WiFi. Download the app, scan the QR code on the unit, and follow the pairing wizard. Mount on the ceiling using the included screws and plates. For mains-powered smart alarms, isolation of the circuit is required. Connect to Alexa or Google Home via the relevant skill or routine. The Aico HomeLINK system uses a bridge connecting to your router to relay data from up to 50 alarms. Smart alarms cost £35-£130 compared to £15-£40 for standard units. App connectivity enables landlord remote testing - useful for HMO compliance. Replace non-rechargeable batteries annually even if the app says otherwise.

Specifications and Comparison¶

Smart Alarm Model	Features	Price	Hub Required?
Nest Protect (2nd Gen)	Split-spectrum sensor, voice alerts, app	£120-£130	No (WiFi built-in)
FireAngel Connected	WiFi, app alerts, self-test	£35-£50	No (WiFi built-in)
Aico HomeLINK	Gateway hub, 50-device capacity	£60 (hub) + £35 per alarm	Yes (HomeLINK Gateway)
Ei Electronics Ei650	RadioLINK + WiFi module	£80-£100	Optional RF module

FAQ¶

Can smart smoke alarms replace standard alarms in the UK?: Yes - smart alarms certified to BS EN 14604 or BS 5839-6 are fully compliant for domestic use and can replace standard smoke alarms.
Do smart alarms work during a power cut?: Yes - most smart alarms have sealed lithium backup batteries that last 5-10 years. WiFi-connected functions may be lost if the router is down.
Can my landlord monitor my smart smoke alarm?: Yes, with appropriate systems like Aico HomeLINK, landlords can receive remote alerts. However, tenants must be informed and consent to data sharing. For more information see our Interlinked Smoke Alarm System UK.

Last updated: 2026-05-31.

External Resources¶

For further information consult authority guidelines at the Information Commissioner's Office.