FireAngel vs Aico: Which is the Best Traditional Smoke Alarm in the UK?
Fire safety is one of the most important investments you can make for your home. With UK fire regulations encouraging households to install high-quality smoke alarms, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming.
FireAngel and Aico (Ei Electronics) are two of the most reputable smoke alarm brands in the UK, but which one is best for you?
In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between these two brands, compare their top traditional smoke alarm models, and help you decide which alarm suits your needs best.
🔥 FireAngel: Innovation & Simplicity for Homeowners
Brand Overview: FireAngel is a UK-based company known for pioneering home safety technology. Their products are designed with homeowners in mind, prioritizing ease of use, wire-free installation, and long-lasting battery life. FireAngel alarms are commonly found in residential homes and are used by over 90% of UK fire services.
🔹FireAngel FA6620 – Best for Hassle-Free Protection
- Sensor Type: Optical
- Power Source: 10-year sealed lithium battery (no replacements needed)
- Ease of Use: One-button testing, ‘Sleep Easy’ to silence low battery chirps
- False Alarm Reduction: Thermoptek sensor (optical + heat for faster response)
- Lifespan & Warranty: 10 years, 5-year manufacturer warranty
- Price Range: £15–£25
- Best For: Homeowners and renters who want zero maintenance alarms that last a decade.
🔹FireAngel FA6611 – Best for Hallways & Landings
- Sensor Type: Optical
- Power Source: Replaceable AA batteries (~3-year lifespan per set)
- Extra Feature: Escape light for added visibility in smoke-filled conditions
- Price Range: £20–£25
- Best For: Hallways, stairwells, and families who want extra guidance in emergencies.
🔹 FireAngel SB1 – Best Budget Option
- Sensor Type: Optical
- Power Source: Replaceable 9V battery (~1 year per battery)
- Price Range: ~£5–£10
- Best For: Short-term solutions or additional protection in garages/attics.
🔍 Key Takeaway: FireAngel offers affordable, easy-to-install smoke alarms with long battery life. If you need a simple, reliable smoke alarm without any wiring hassle, FireAngel is a top choice.
🏆 Aico (Ei Electronics): Professional-Grade Safety
Brand Overview: Aico is widely regarded as the gold standard in fire safety for homes and businesses. Their alarms are often used in new builds, rented properties, and large houses due to their ability to be interlinked for full-home coverage.
🔹 Aico Ei146 – Best for Whole-Home Protection
- Sensor Type: Optical
- Power Source: Mains-powered (230V) with a 9V battery backup
- Ease of Use: Hardwired installation, interconnects with other Aico alarms
- Lifespan & Warranty: 10 years, 5-year manufacturer warranty
- Price Range: £25–£30
- Best For: Homeowners looking for a professional, long-term fire safety solution.
🔹 Aico Ei141 – Best Ionisation Smoke Alarm
- Sensor Type: Ionisation (detects fast-flaming fires faster)
- Power Source: Mains-powered with a 9V battery backup
- Interlinking: Yes (wired or wireless with add-ons)
- Price Range: £15–£20
- Best For: Bedrooms or areas where fast detection of open-flame fires is a priority.
🔹 Aico Ei650 – Best for Renters & DIY Installations
- Sensor Type: Optical
- Power Source: 10-year sealed lithium battery (no wiring required)
- Interlinking: No (standalone model)
- Price Range: £20–£35
- Best For: Renters or homeowners who want Aico-quality safety without the need for wiring.
🔍 Key Takeaway: Aico’s alarms are built to last, interconnectable, and ideal for large homes. If you need a hardwired system with maximum coverage, Aico is unbeatable.
🏁 Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
✅Choose FireAngel if:
✔️ You need a quick and easy smoke alarm that works right out of the box. ✔️ You want a battery-powered option that doesn’t require wiring. ✔️ You’re a renter or homeowner looking for a no-fuss safety solution. ✔️ You want a budget-friendly yet reliable alarm (FA6620 is a great all-rounder).
✅ Choose Aico if:
✔️ You’re installing a hardwired fire safety system in your home. ✔️ You want interlinked alarms so every unit sounds in case of fire. ✔️ You prefer a long-term professional solution (Ei146 is a top pick). ✔️ You live in a multi-floor home and want maximum coverage.
🚨 No matter which alarm you choose, install enough units in your home and test them regularly to stay safe! 🚨