Smoke Detector Compatibility

[A/A Fuel GTX]

Are BRK/First Alert detectors compatible with Kidde/Firex? I know the manufacturers will say no but I see them co-mingled in the field all the time.

 

[Dennis Alwon]

I am not sure how to answer that but I have seen many different brands work together.

 

[Split Bolt]

I would say that, even if the "co-mingled" SDs work when tested, they may not work in a fire and you could be held liable for any loss of life or property. If I can't find the compatibility listed in the manuals or on the websites, I won't mix them. Not worth the risk.

 

[Dennis Alwon]

I would say that, even if the "co-mingled" SDs work when tested, they may not work in a fire

If you push the test button and they work why would they not work in a fire?

 

[RICK NAPIER]

I have sen problems arise particularly when power is shut off and they are running from the battery power. Besides it violates 110.3(B).

 

[slick 50]

I say no problem at all since they all react individually from the interconnect power source not through the unit itself.

 

[RICK NAPIER]

The problem occurs when some incompatable units either give false alarms or do not ring when other detectors are set off.

 

[dhalleron]

There is a little article in the National Fire Alarm Code that says:

NFPA 72 - 2010 29.3.2 Fire-warning equipment shall be installed in accordance
with the listing and manufacturer?s published instructions.

Interconnected alarms of different makes might sometimes work together but if the manufacturer does not say so in their documentation then you are open to the usual liability if something goes wrong and insurance companies and lawyers get involved.

 

[480sparky]

If I need to add a smoke or two (say, for a basement finish), I just figure on replacing all the smokes in the house. They're probably due for it anyway.

 

[dhalleron]

If I need to add a smoke or two (say, for a basement finish), I just figure on replacing all the smokes in the house. They're probably due for it anyway.

Replacing all of them is a good option. Per NFPA 72 2010 29.8.1.4 they are not to be in service more than 10 years anyway.

 

[Dennis Alwon]

There is no question that it is a violation and replacing them all is the proper way to do it if you cannot match the existing units.

 

[A/A Fuel GTX]

I guess I'll just wait for a BRK/First Alert/Kidde/Firex merger and that should eliminate is issue.

 

[frankft2000]

I guess I'll just wait for a BRK/First Alert/Kidde/Firex merger and that should eliminate is issue.

LOL well its worked so far!

 

[dhalleron]

I guess I'll just wait for a BRK/First Alert/Kidde/Firex merger and that should eliminate is issue.

Probably not. Kidde already bought Firex and I'm told they are still not compatible.

 

[frankft2000]

Probably not. Kidde already bought Firex and I'm told they are still not compatible.

A lot of models are. If its not in the instruction manual, then lots of times there is a cardboard card that tells what is compatible with what.

 

[gadfly56]

Are BRK/First Alert detectors compatible with Kidde/Firex? I know the manufacturers will say no but I see them co-mingled in the field all the time.

You see it all the time because, idle speculation in this thread to the contrary notwithstanding, there is limited compatibility. Look here.

 

[acrwc10]

Probably not. Kidde already bought Firex and I'm told they are still not compatible.

The "Sieman's" vs. "Murray" scenario.

Correct me if I am wrong but, I thought the characteristics of the "signal" between the smoke detectors was dictated by fire code. So this will make them operate even if they are differing brands.

 

[LarryFine]

Look here.

Polar bear in a blizzard. I've seen it before.

 

[Split Bolt]

Polar bear in a blizzard. I've seen it before.

Larry, there's something wrong with your browser. I see an albino kitten swimming in a large bowl of milk!:grin: