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Smoke Alarm Keeps Going Off?

2 mins·Sep 28th, 2026
Common Causes and How to Stop False Alarms

You’re cooking dinner. The toast is a little dark. Suddenly the smoke alarm is screaming and everyone’s waving tea towels at the ceiling.

A smoke alarm that goes off when there’s no fire is frustrating — but it’s doing exactly what it was built to do. The trick is working out what set it off, and stopping it happening again without switching off the protection you rely on.

This is different from the occasional chirp. A short chirp about once a minute usually signals a maintenance issue such as a low battery. A full alarm with no sign of fire may be a false alarm — and that’s what this guide covers.

The most common causes

Cooking: Smoke from burnt food, fumes from frying and steam from boiling pots are the number one trigger — especially if the alarm is mounted too close to the kitchen.

Steam: A hot shower, a clothes dryer or a kettle can all look like smoke to a photo electric sensor, particularly if the alarm sits inside or just outside a bathroom or laundry.

Aerosol sprays: Deodorant, hairspray, insect spray and cleaning products used near an alarm can set it off.

Dust and insects: Dust builds up inside the sensing chamber over time, and small insects can get in. Either can trigger the alarm.

Air conditioning and fans: Outlets and fans close to an alarm can push moisture or dust into the alarm.

How to silence it safely

First, make sure there is no fire. Only once you’re confident it’s a false alarm should you silence the alarm.

Many modern alarms have a hush button, often the same button used for testing. Pressing it reduces sensitivity for around ten minutes on most models while the air clears – check your alarm’s instructions. Dense smoke will still override it, so you stay protected.

If your alarms are interconnected, hush the unit that triggered – on many models it’s marked by a flashing light, and hushing it quiets the others; check your model’s instructions.

Then ventilate: open windows and switch on the rangehood or exhaust fan.

Never remove the battery or disconnect the alarm to stop it. A disabled alarm won’t work in a real fire.

Stopping it happening again

Check where it’s mounted. Alarms shouldn’t be in kitchens or bathrooms, or close to a cooktop, shower, clothes dryer or air conditioning outlet. Relocating it often solves recurring false alarms.

Use the range-hood before you start cooking and the bathroom fan before you shower.

Clean the alarm every six months by gently vacuuming around the vents. Never spray cleaning products or insecticide into the alarm.

Choose the right type of alarm. Photoelectric smoke alarms respond to visible particles of combustion and are less likely to be triggered by cooking fumes than older ionisation alarms. If you’re replacing an alarm that false-alarms regularly, a photoelectric model is the better choice.

View Full Range of Quell Photoelectric Smoke Alarms

When it’s not a false alarm

If an alarm keeps going off and you can’t find a cause — no cooking, no steam, no sprays — take it seriously. Check for an overheating appliance or a fault in a power board. If in doubt, get everyone out and call 000.

For more help with specific alarm behaviour, visit the Quell troubleshooting page or browse the FAQs.

View Quell Troubleshooting

Where to buy Quell

If it’s time to replace an alarm, the Quell smoke alarm range includes photoelectric models in replaceable battery, 10-year lithium and Mains Powered options. Quell products are available at:

  • Bunnings
  • Mitre 10
  • Other leading Australian retailers

You can also find your nearest retailer by visiting our Stockist page.

Quell Stockists

Fire Extinguishers and Fire Blankets

2 mins·Sep 28th, 2026
What to Keep at Home and How to Use Them

Most house fires start small. A pan left on the stove. A heater against the curtains. In the first few seconds, many can be stopped — if the right equipment is within reach and you know how to use it.

Two things are worth having in every Australian home: a fire blanket and a fire extinguisher.

Fire blankets: The Kitchen Essential

Cooking fires are the most common house fire in Australia, and the most dangerous mistake is throwing water on burning oil — it erupts and sprays burning oil across the kitchen.

A fire blanket is the right response to a pan fire. It smothers the flames by cutting off oxygen, with no mess and no chemicals. Keep it in the kitchen but away from the stove — near the doorway, where you can reach it without leaning over the fire.

Learn More

How to use a fire blanket

  1. Pull the tabs at the bottom of the pouch to release the blanket.
  2. Hold it in front of you with the edges rolled back over your hands to protect them.
  3. Walk slowly towards the fire and lay the blanket over the pan. Don’t throw it — place it, keeping the edges clear of the flames.
  4. Turn off the heat at the stove if it’s safe to do so.
  5. Leave it in place until the pan has fully cooled — fire services advise at least 15 to 30 minutes. Lifting the blanket before the fuel source has cooled will let oxygen back in and reignite the fire
  6. Call 000, even if the fire appears to be out.

A fire blanket is single-use — once it’s been on a fire, replace it. A larger fire blanket (1.2m x 1.8m) can also be wrapped around a person whose clothing has caught alight: get them to the ground and roll until the flames are out, then seek medical help.

To watch a full demonstration video on how to use a Quell Fire Blanket, go to the link below.

Watch Video

Fire extinguishers: for most other fires

For fires outside the kitchen — a heater, a power board, a rubbish bin, a workshop — a dry chemical powder extinguisher is the practical choice for the home. In Australia these are the red extinguishers with a white band, labelled ABE, which means they are rated for ordinary combustibles (A), flammable liquids (B) and electrical fires (E).

Store it somewhere you’ll pass on your way out — the entrance to the kitchen or the hallway, not inside the kitchen. Check the pressure gauge is in the green now and then and give the cylinder a gentle shake to stop the powder settling.

An ABE extinguisher is not the tool for a cooktop oil fire — the discharge can splash burning oil, and the powder cloud reduces visibility. Blanket for the pan, extinguisher for most other small fires.

How to use a fire extinguisher: PASS

  1. Pull the pin. This breaks the seal and lets you operate the extinguisher.
  2. Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire, not at the flames.
  3. Squeeze the handles to release the powder.
  4. Sweep from side to side across the base of the fire until it’s out.
  5. Keep your exit behind you. If the fire isn’t going out, stop and leave.

To watch a full demonstration video on how to use a Quell Fire Extinguisher, go to the link below.

Watch Video

Know when not to fight it

These are for small fires in the first moments. If the fire is bigger than a small bin, if smoke is filling the room, or if you’re not confident — don’t fight it. Get everyone out, close the door behind you, and call 000.

Where to buy Quell

The Quell range includes fire blankets and ABE extinguishers sized for the home. Quell products are available at

  • Bunnings
  • Mitre 10
  • Other leading Australian retailers

You can also find your nearest retailer by visiting our Stockist page.

Quell Stockists

Caravan and Motorhome Fire Safety

2 mins·Sep 25th, 2026
A Checklist Before You Hit the Road

Why Fire Safety Matters in a Caravan

A caravan is a small space with lightweight fittings, gas appliances, a battery system and usually one door. If a fire starts, there’s less time and fewer ways out than in a house. That’s a reason to set up properly before you travel.

The Four Essentials

Fire and Rescue NSW recommends every caravan carry 4 things: a working smoke alarm, a carbon monoxide alarm, a dry chemical powder fire extinguisher, and a fire blanket — with the extinguisher and blanket located near the exit.

  1. Smoke alarm. Fit a photoelectric alarm near the sleeping area — it responds well to smouldering fires in bedding and upholstery Choose one with a hush button, because in a caravan the alarm will be close to the cooktop.
  2. Carbon Monoxide Alarm. While a smoke alarm alerts you to a fire in your van, a Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarm detects the early presence of carbon monoxide emitted from gas sources such as heating and cooking systems, vehicle engines and fuels.
  3. Fire extinguisher. An ABE dry chemical powder extinguisher, mounted near the door – compact 1kg and 2.5kg sizes suit most vans.
  4. Fire blanket. Faster and cleaner than an extinguisher for a fat fire. Keep it near the exit, not next to the stove.
Learn More

Queensland’s smoke alarm requirements for caravans

Queensland requires smoke alarms in caravans and motorhomes registered or transferred in Queensland since 1 July 2024 to have a compliant 10year sealed photoelectric smoke alarm fitted, and from 1 January 2027 the requirement extends to all registered caravans and motorhomes in the state. Other states have their own rules — check the requirements where your van is registered.

Learn More

Gas

LPG is one of the most serious fire risks in a caravan. Before each trip:

  • Check that gas cylinders are secured correctly to the van, with valves facing away from it
  • Inspect all fittings and hoses for wear or leaks — they can work loose from vibration on rough roads
  • Turn off pilot lights and cylinder valves before towing, and turn cylinders off when not in use
  • Never use a gas cooker or heater while the van is moving

If you smell gas: turn off the cylinder valve, open doors and windows, and don’t operate any switches until the van has cleared.

Electrical

Electrical faults and damaged equipment are a significant fire risk in caravans. Have appliances checked by a licensed electrician, don’t daisy-chain power boards, and charge phones and power banks on a hard surface — never on the bed.

Before you sleep, before you drive

Two habits make the biggest difference:

  • Before bed: turn off appliances and heaters, check the escape route is clear, and know where the extinguisher is
  • Before driving: turn off gas, check fittings, and turn off non-essential electrics

If a fire starts

Get out, stay out, and call 000. Only use the extinguisher or blanket if the fire is very small and the exit is behind you. Once outside, stay away from the van and the gas cylinders.

In areas with limited mobile coverage, the Emergency+ app uses your phone’s GPS to give emergency services your location. A portable radio keeps you updated on fire restrictions.

Where to buy Quell

Quell smoke alarms suitable for caravans, along with fire blankets and compact ABE extinguishers, are stocked by major retailers.

Quell products are available at:

  • Bunnings
  • Mitre 10
  • Other leading Australian retailers

You can also find your nearest retailer by visiting our Stockist page.

Quell Stockists
Quell Caravan Smoke Alarm
The Quell caravan and motor home alarm is built tough and vibration tested, designed specifically for camper-vans, caravans, onsite vans, park vans and annexes.
Quell Carbon Monoxide Alarm
Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarm detects the early presence of carbon monoxide emitted from gas sources such as heating and cooking systems, vehicle engines and fuels
Quell Compact Fire Extinguishers
A compact ABE dry chemical powder extinguisher, mounted near the door – available in various sizes suit most vans.
Quell Fire Blankets
Faster and cleaner than an extinguisher for a fat fire. Keep it near the exit, not next to the stove.

Could Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Happen in My Home?

3 mins·Aug 27th, 2026
You can’t see it. You can’t smell it. You can’t taste it.

You can’t see it. You can’t smell it. You can’t taste it.

Most household problems give us some sort of warning. A fire produces smoke. A leaking pipe leaves a puddle. A gas leak has a distinctive smell.

Carbon monoxide is different. You can’t see it. You can’t smell it. You can’t taste it.

So, could it happen in your home? If you use a gas heater in winter, light the fireplace on cold evenings, have a wood heater, or park your car in an attached garage, it’s a question worth asking.

The good news is that understanding the risk is the first step towards protecting your home. Once you know where carbon monoxide comes from, the symptoms to look for and the simple precautions you can take, staying safe becomes much easier.

Where does carbon monoxide come from?

Carbon monoxide is created when fuels such as gas, wood, petrol or charcoal don’t burn completely. Around the home, that usually means it’s linked to fuel-burning appliances or equipment.

Common sources include:

  • Gas heaters
  • Wood heaters
  • Fireplaces
  • Gas appliances
  • Portable generators
  • Attached garages

Most of these are things many of us use every day without a second thought. A gas heater warming the house on a cold morning. A fireplace crackling away in the living room. A generator running during a power outage.

The risk isn’t the appliance itself. It comes when fuel doesn’t burn properly and carbon monoxide starts to build up — which can happen if an appliance is faulty, poorly maintained or used somewhere without enough ventilation.

What are the symptoms?

One of the reasons carbon monoxide poisoning is so difficult to recognise is that the symptoms don’t seem alarming at first. It might start with a headache you can’t quite shake. Maybe you’re more tired than usual, a bit dizzy, or slightly nauseous — easy to put down to a busy week or coming down with a cold.

Common symptoms can include:

  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Fatigue
  • Weakness
  • Shortness of breath

The warning sign people miss

Picture a winter evening with the heater running. One family member mentions a headache. Someone else says they’re feeling a bit off. It seems like a cold, or tiredness, or simply a rough day.

That’s the detail worth remembering: if several people in the home develop similar symptoms at the same time, particularly while fuel-burning appliances are in use, it’s worth taking seriously.

If you suspect carbon monoxide exposure, or if a carbon monoxide alarm sounds, move everyone into fresh air immediately and call emergency services.

How can you help protect your home?

Reducing the risk doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple habits go a long way:

  • Have fuel-burning appliances serviced regularly
  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for heaters, fireplaces and other fuel-burning appliances
  • Make sure appliances are used in well-ventilated areas where required
  • Never use outdoor fuel-burning equipment indoors
  • Watch for visible damage or unusual appliance performance

Even with regular maintenance, no one can see, smell or taste carbon monoxide. That’s why many homeowners install a carbon monoxide alarm as an additional layer of protection.

Think of it this way: maintenance helps reduce the risk, while an alarm makes sure you’re told if a problem does occur. And when it comes to carbon monoxide, the sooner you know, the sooner you can act.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have a question? Visit the Quell FAQ page for answers the most commonly asked questions.

Learn More

Where can I buy Quell CO alarms

Quell carbon monoxide alarms are stocked at major retailers right across Australia, including

  • Bunnings
  • Mitre 10

You can pick one up next time you’re already out shopping.

You can also find your nearest retailer by visiting our Stockist page.

Quell Stockists

Why Is My Smoke Alarm Beeping? Causes And How To Fix It

Aug 27th, 2026
A smoke alarm can only protect your family if it’s working properly.

Most smoke alarms don’t start beeping without a reason.

It’s often the middle of the night when it happens. The house is quiet, everyone’s asleep, and suddenly you hear an intermittent beep coming from somewhere overhead.

The good news? A beeping smoke alarm doesn’t usually mean there’s a fire. In most cases, it’s simply your alarm’s way of letting you know that something needs attention.

So, what is it trying to tell you?

What does a smoke alarm beep mean?

Smoke alarms are designed to communicate different things.

A loud, continuous alarm usually means smoke has been detected and should never be ignored. An occasional chirp or beep, on the other hand, often indicates a maintenance issue, low battery, fault condition or end-of-life warning.

Think of it as your smoke alarm’s way of saying:

“Something isn’t quite right. Please check me.”

Before You Remove the Battery…

We get it. A smoke alarm that won’t stop beeping can be incredibly frustrating, especially when it starts in the middle of the night.

However tempting it might be, don’t remove the battery and forget about it.

Fix the cause, not the symptom. A few minutes spent finding the reason for the beeping can help ensure your home stays protected. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific alarm model.

Before you do anything else, make sure there is no sign of smoke or fire and identify which alarm is beeping. Then work through the following common causes.

The battery needs replacing

One of the most common causes of a beeping smoke alarm is a low battery.

If your alarm uses a replaceable battery, replacing it may resolve the issue. Even hard-wired alarms often contain a backup battery that need attention.

The alarm needs cleaning

Photoelectric alarms work by aiming a light source (LED) through a sensing chamber to a receiver. When particles enter the chamber, changes to the light pattern are detected by the receiver, which in turn triggers an alarm.

Dust, dirt and even small insects can sometimes interfere with a smoke alarm’s sensors.

If the alarm hasn’t been cleaned for a while, a gentle clean according to the manufacturer’s instructions may help.

The alarm has reached the end of its life

Smoke alarms don’t last forever.

Smoke alarms are designed to be replaced after 10 years. Some alarms will begin beeping to let you know replacement is due.

The alarm needs resetting

After a battery change, power interruption or test, some smoke alarms may need to be reset.

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific alarm model.

A Quick Self-Check

Before replacing your smoke alarm, ask yourself:

  • Has the battery been replaced recently?
  • Has the alarm been cleaned recently?
  • Is the alarm more than 10 years old?
  • Have you checked the manufacturer’s instructions?
  • Is the alarm showing any warning lights or indicators?

These quick checks can often help identify what’s causing the beeping.

Smoke Alarm Maintenance Tips

A smoke alarm is one of those devices you rarely think about until you need it. That’s why a little routine maintenance can go a long way towards helping ensure it’s ready to do its job when it matters most.

The good news is that smoke alarm maintenance doesn’t need to be complicated.

A few simple habits can help keep your alarm working as intended:

  • Test your smoke alarm regularly using the test button.
  • Gently vacuum around the alarm every six months to remove dust and debris.
  • Replace batteries when required if your alarm uses replaceable batteries.
  • Check the manufacture or replacement date and replace the alarm when it reaches the end of its service life.
  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for testing, cleaning and ongoing maintenance.

Think of it like servicing your car. A few minutes of maintenance now can help prevent problems later and provide confidence that your smoke alarm will respond when needed.

After all, a smoke alarm can only protect your family if it’s working properly.

When Is It Time to Replace the Alarm?

If you’ve replaced the battery, cleaned the alarm and checked the manufacturer’s instructions but the beeping continues, it may be time for a replacement.

Like any safety device, smoke alarms have a limited lifespan. Replacing an ageing alarm is one of the simplest ways to maintain reliable home protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have a question? Visit the Quell FAQ page for answers the most commonly asked questions.

Learn More

Where can I buy Quell smoke alarms

Quell smoke alarms are stocked at major retailers right across Australia, including

  • Bunnings
  • Mitre 10

You can pick one up next time you’re already out shopping.

You can also find your nearest retailer by visiting our Stockist page.

Quell Stockists

Do I Need Interconnected Smoke Alarms?

3 mins·Aug 26th, 2026
Short answer: if a smoke alarm sounding in one part of your home might not be heard elsewhere, it’s worth considering an interconnected system.

When one alarm detects smoke, every connected alarm sounds

Most people assume that if a smoke alarm sounds, everyone in the house will hear it. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case.

If a fire starts in the garage while your family is asleep, the nearest smoke alarm will sound first. In a larger home, however, that warning may not be heard straight away, especially if bedrooms are located on another level or at the other end of the house.

That’s where interconnected smoke alarms can help.

When one alarm detects smoke, every connected alarm sounds, helping ensure everyone hears the warning no matter where they are in the home.

Could your home benefit from interconnected smoke alarms?

Every home has a different layout. While some homes make it easy to hear a smoke alarm from almost anywhere, others have bedrooms, living areas and garages spread further apart, making early warning even more important.

A quick self-check:

  • Does your home have more than one storey?
  • Do you have bedrooms located away from your main living areas?
  • Do people sleep with bedroom doors closed?
  • Would you hear a smoke alarm in the garage if you were asleep in your bedroom?
  • Do you have a laundry, garage or another area separated from the rest of the home?
  • Do elderly family members live in the home?
  • Do people with hearing impairments live in the home?

If any of these sound familiar, interconnected smoke alarms are worth considering.

How do alarms connect?

There are two main ways smoke alarms can be interconnected: wireless and hard-wired.

Wireless interconnected alarms
Wireless alarms communicate using radio frequency (RF) technology. When one alarm detects smoke, it sends a signal to the other alarms in the home, causing them to activate as well.

Because they don’t require any wiring between alarms, they’re a popular choice for existing homes and come in both Battery and Mains Powered variants.

Good to know:

  • No wiring between alarms
  • No Wi-Fi required
  • Suitable for existing homes
  • Main Powered models should always be installed by a licensed electrician.

Hard-wired interconnected alarms
Hard-wired alarms are connected to the home’s electrical wiring and interconnected via a dedicated wire between each alarm, allowing all alarms to sound when one detects smoke. They’re commonly installed in new homes and major renovations, and installation must be completed by a licensed electrician.

Which option is right for you?

If you’re upgrading the smoke alarms you already have, and they are Mains Powered you will need to replace your alarms with Main Powered alarms.

A wireless interconnected system is often the easiest place to start when creating a new interconnect network as there is no need to run cables through walls or ceilings, and you can easily expand the system later if your needs change. Adding an extra bedroom, converting the garage or creating a home office? Additional wireless alarms can simply be connected to the existing network, helping you extend protection as your home evolves.

If you’re building a new home or undertaking a major renovation, a complete hardwired or combination of hardwired and wireless may be suitable. With electrical work already being carried out, it’s a convenient time to install interconnected protection throughout the home. These systems connect to the home’s mains power and should be installed by a licensed electrician.

The bottom line

Do you need interconnected smoke alarms? If your home has areas where a smoke alarm might not be heard straight away, they’re certainly worth considering.

The whole point of a smoke alarm is to give you and your family time. Time to wake up, time to react and time to get out safely. The sooner you hear the warning, the sooner you can act.

Requirements can vary depending on where you live, so it’s always worth checking your local smoke alarm regulations when upgrading or installing new alarms. Interconnected smoke alarms are already required in some situations and are becoming increasingly common in homes across Australia.

In Queensland, all private homes, townhouses and units will need interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms from 1 January 2027. Requirements vary across Australia, so check the current rules in your state or territory.

Because when it comes to fire safety, a few extra seconds can make all the difference.

To learn more, explore Quell’s range of interconnected smoke alarms, browse the FAQs or visit the Video Library for practical advice on choosing, installing and maintaining your smoke alarms.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many interconnected smoke alarms do I need?
The right number depends on the size and layout of your home. For the best level of protection, smoke alarms should be installed in bedrooms, hallways connecting sleeping areas and on every level of the home.

Can interconnected smoke alarms be installed in an existing home?
Yes. Many interconnected smoke alarms are available as wireless models, making them suitable for existing homes without the need to run cables through walls and ceilings.

What’s the difference between wireless and hard-wired interconnected alarms?
Wireless interconnected alarms communicate using radio frequency technology and don’t require wiring between alarms. Hard-wired alarms are connected through the home’s electrical wiring and are commonly installed in new homes and major renovations. Hard-wired systems should be installed by a licensed electrician.

Can I install wireless interconnected smoke alarms myself?
Many wireless interconnected smoke alarms are designed to be easy to install and don’t require wiring between alarms. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions supplied with the alarm.

Can I add more alarms later?
If you’re using a wireless interconnected system, it’s often easy to expand the network later. This can be particularly useful if you renovate, add a bedroom or create a new living space and want to extend protection to additional areas of the home.

Are interconnected smoke alarms required in my state?
Smoke alarm requirements vary across Australia and can change over time. If you’re installing or upgrading smoke alarms, it’s worth checking the current requirements in your state or territory. Interconnected smoke alarms are already required in some situations and are becoming increasingly common in homes across Australia.

Where to buy Quell

Quell offers both wireless and hard-wired interconnected smoke alarms to suit different homes and budgets. If you’re not sure which option is right for your home, the Quell range includes alarms suitable for both retrofits and new installations.

Quell Stockists

Quell Carbon Monoxide Alarms

4 mins·Aug 19th, 2026
You can smell smoke. You can see a fire. But Carbon Monoxide (CO) gives you no warning.

Quell Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Carbon monoxide is often called the silent killer because it is a poisonous, colourless, odourless and tasteless gas. Most people don’t realise they are being exposed until symptoms begin—and early symptoms can easily be mistaken for a cold, flu or fatigue.

If your home has a gas heater, gas fireplace, wood heater, attached garage, or you use a petrol-powered generator, a carbon monoxide alarm provides an essential early warning when dangerous CO levels are detected

What is carbon monoxide?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a poisonous, colourless, odourless, and tasteless gas produced when fuels such as gas, wood, oil, petrol, or charcoal burn incompletely. It can be released by faulty or poorly maintained appliances, or when fuel-burning appliances are used in poorly ventilated or inappropriate spaces.

Common household sources of carbon monoxide include:

  • Gas heaters
  • Gas fireplaces
  • Wood-burning heaters
  • Open fireplaces
  • Petrol-powered generators
  • Vehicles running in attached garages
  • Outdoor BBQs & heaters used in enclosed spaces

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning

The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are often mistaken for fatigue, stress, dehydration or a cold or flu.

Mild exposure

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Tiredness

Moderate exposure

  • Severe headache
  • Drowsiness
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Rapid heartbeat

Severe exposure

  • Confusion
  • Collapse
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Can be fatal

How carbon monoxide alarms work

A carbon monoxide alarm continuously monitors the air for the presence of carbon monoxide using an electrochemical sensor. If dangerous CO levels are detected over a period of time, the alarm sounds, providing an early warning so you can evacuate safely and seek assistance.

Where Should You Install a Carbon Monoxide Alarm?

For the best protection, install carbon monoxide alarms:

  • Outside every sleeping area – Install a CO alarm in the hallway or area immediately outside bedrooms.
  • Near fuel-burning appliances – Place an alarm in rooms with gas heaters, wood heaters, fireplaces, gas hot water systems, or other fuel-burning appliances.
  • On every level of your home – Install at least one CO alarm on each storey of your home.
  • In rooms with attached garages – Install an alarm close to the internal door connecting an attached garage to your home.

What to do if your carbon monoxide alarm sounds

Always treat a carbon monoxide alarm seriously. If the alarm activates:

  • Move everyone outside immediately, including pets.
  • Open doors and windows on your way out if it is safe to do so, but don’t delay leaving.
  • Do not stop to look for the source of the carbon monoxide.
  • Call 000
  • Seek medical attention for anyone who was exposed, even if they feel okay. Carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms can be delayed.
  • Do not re-enter until emergency services or a licensed gas fitter confirms it is safe to do so.

Because carbon monoxide is invisible and odourless, you cannot tell when the danger has passed. The safest response is always to leave immediately.

Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms

A combination smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarm provides two essential forms of protection in one compact device.

  • Dual protection – Detects both smoke and dangerous carbon monoxide levels.
  • Space-saving – One alarm instead of two, making installation simple.
  • Easy maintenance – Only one device to test, clean, and replace.
  • Ideal for fuel-burning homes – Perfect for areas with gas heaters, fireplaces, or other fuel-burning appliances.

A combination alarm is a convenient, cost-effective way to enhance your home’s fire and carbon monoxide safety.

Quell Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide alarms

Frequently asked questions

Have a question? Visit the Quell FAQ page for answers the most commonly asked questions.

Learn More

Where can I buy Quell CO alarms

Quell carbon monoxide alarms are stocked at major retailers right across Australia, including

  • Bunnings
  • Mitre 10

You can pick one up next time you’re already out shopping.

You can also find your nearest retailer by visiting our Stockist page.

Quell Stockists

How to Choose a Smoke Alarm

4 mins·Aug 19th, 2026
Choosing the right smoke alarm is essential for protecting your home and family.

Photoelectric vs Ionisation

When it comes to protecting your home and family, choosing the right smoke alarm is one of the most important safety decisions you can make. While all smoke alarms are designed to alert you to a fire, not all technologies perform the same.

Today, photoelectric smoke alarms are the preferred technology across Australia. In some states and territories, they are now the only type permitted for installation under legislation. Walk into Bunnings today and you’ll find almost every smoke alarm on the shelf is already photoelectric. So, the real question isn’t which technology to choose—it’s which photoelectric smoke alarm is right for your home.

This guide explains the different types of photoelectric smoke alarms available and how to choose the best option for your needs.

What type of smoke alarm is best for me

With so many options available, we’ve listed the benefits and features of different smoke alarms to help with your selection process.

9V Battery
A practical and affordable option for homes where mains-powered alarms aren’t required. Easy to install without wiring, 9V battery smoke alarms provide reliable early detection of slow-smouldering fires while allowing for quick battery replacement during routine maintenance. They’re ideal for existing homes, rental properties and replacing older smoke alarms.

10-year Sealed Lithium Battery
Designed for convenience, these alarms provide long-lasting protection without the need for annual battery replacement. With a sealed lithium battery that lasts the life of the alarm, they’re easy to install and require minimal maintenance while delivering reliable early warning of slow-smouldering fires. They’re an excellent choice for new and existing homes, as well as rental properties, helping you stay up to date with modern fire safety requirements.

240V Hard-wired
Installed by a licensed electrician, 240V mains-powered smoke alarms provide continuous protection with a backup battery to ensure they continue operating during a power outage. Ideal for new homes and major renovations, these alarms can also be interconnected so every alarm sounds if smoke is detected anywhere in the home.

Interconnected
Interconnected smoke alarms provide enhanced whole-home protection. When one alarm detects smoke, every interconnected alarm throughout the home sounds simultaneously. This ensures everyone in the home receives an early warning, regardless of where the fire starts, providing valuable extra time to evacuate safely. Interconnected smoke alarms are available in both wireless and mains-powered options, making them suitable for both existing homes and new builds.

From 1st January 2027, new legislation becomes law, requiring all existing private homes, townhouses and units in Queensland to be fitted with interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms.

Room-specific protection made simple
Once you’ve chosen the type of smoke alarm that’s right for your home, selecting the right model is easy. Quell’s room-specific packaging is clearly labelled for bedrooms, hallways, living areas and kitchens, making it easier to choose the most suitable smoke alarm for every area of your home.

Learn More About Legislation Changes

Look for AS3786 Certification

When purchasing a smoke alarm, always check that it complies with Australian Standard AS 3786:2014 (or later). Smoke alarms sold through reputable Australian retailers will typically meet this standard, but it’s always worth checking the packaging—particularly when purchasing online.

Room-specific protection made simple

Choosing the right alarm for each area of your home is easy with Quell’s room-specific packaging. Each Photoelectric Smoke and Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarm is clearly labelled for its recommended location—such as bedrooms, hallways, living areas or kitchens—helping you quickly identify the most suitable product for every space. This simple, application-based packaging removes the guesswork out of home fire safety, making it easier to protect your family with the right alarm in the right place.

Where should my new alarms be installed?

From 1st January 2027, Queensland will become the first Australian state to require interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms in all private homes, townhouses and units. Smoke alarms must be installed:

  • Every bedroom
  • Hallways connecting bedrooms
  • At least one alarm on every level of the home

While legislation varies across Australia, these requirements provide an excellent benchmark for achieving the highest level of protection. For the best protection, Quell recommends:

  • Install at least one photoelectric smoke alarm on every level of your home.
  • Position alarms in hallways or areas connecting bedrooms to the rest of the home.
  • Keep alarms away from cooking appliances, bathrooms, ceiling fans and air-conditioning vents to reduce nuisance alarms.
  • Mount alarms on the ceiling at least 300 mm away from walls, corners and light fittings.

Testing and maintenance

Regular testing and maintenance help ensure your smoke alarm performs when you need it most. Follow these simple steps:

  • Test monthly by pressing and holding the test button until it sounds
  • Vacuum it every six months to clear dust from the sensor
  • Replace the alarm every 10 years – check the manufacture date printed on the unit, though many modern alarms will also give an end-of-life warning (a distinct chirp or indicator light) when they’re due for replacement, so you don’t have to keep track yourself
  • Replace 9V batteries yearly, or the moment you hear the low-battery chirp (10-year sealed alarms skip this step entirely)

To watch our helpful maintenance videos and safety tips in the Quell Video Library.

Quell Library

Frequently asked questions

Have a question? Visit the Quell FAQ page for answers the most commonly asked questions.

Learn More

Where can I buy Quell smoke alarms

Quell smoke alarms are stocked at major retailers right across Australia, including

  • Bunnings
  • Mitre 10
  • Kmart
  • Coles
  • Woolworths
  • BigW

You can pick one up next time you’re already out shopping.

You can also find your nearest retailer by visiting our Stockist page.

Quell Stockists

How to Install a Smoke Alarm

4 mins·Aug 19th, 2026
Choosing the right smoke alarm depends on your home, local regulations, and the level of protection you want.

Selecting your smoke alarms

Choosing the right smoke alarm depends on your home, local regulations, and the level of protection you want. Here are the main options to consider:

Replaceable Battery
A practical and affordable choice for homes where mains-powered alarms aren’t required. These alarms are easy to install yourself, with the replaceable battery needing replacement at least once a year.

10-year Sealed Lithium Battery
Designed for convenience and long-term reliability, these alarms feature a sealed lithium battery that lasts for the life of the alarm. They’re simple to install and require minimal maintenance, making them a popular choice for many homeowners.

240V Hard-wired
240V mains-powered smoke alarms provide continuous protection with a backup battery allowing them to operate even during a power outage. Installation must be carried out by a licensed electrician in accordance with Australian regulations.

Interconnected
When one alarm detects smoke, every interconnected smoke alarm throughout the home sounds simultaneously. Available in both wireless and mains-powered options, interconnected smoke alarms are suitable for both existing homes and new builds.

From 1st January 2027, new legislation becomes law, requiring all existing private homes, townhouses and units in Queensland to be fitted with interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms.

Room-specific protection made simple
Once you’ve chosen the type of smoke alarm that’s right for your home, selecting the right model is easy. Quell’s room-specific packaging is clearly labelled for bedrooms, hallways, living areas and kitchens, making it easier to choose the most suitable smoke alarm for every area of your home.

Learn More about Interconnected Alarms

What you’ll need before you start

For a DIY installation, you’ll need:

  • Pencil
  • Drill
  • Screwdriver
  • Ladder or step stool

If you’re replacing an existing alarm, check the manufacture date on the old unit. If it’s more than 10 years old, replacement is overdue regardless of whether it still appears to work.

Where should my new alarms be installed?

From 1st January 2027, Queensland will become the first Australian state to require interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms in all private homes, townhouses and units. Smoke alarms must be installed:

  • Every bedroom
  • Hallways connecting bedrooms
  • At least one alarm on every level of the home

While legislation varies across Australia, these requirements provide an excellent benchmark for achieving the highest level of protection. For the best protection, Quell recommends:

  • Install at least one photoelectric smoke alarm on every level of your home.
  • Position alarms in hallways or areas connecting bedrooms to the rest of the home.
  • Keep alarms away from cooking appliances, bathrooms, ceiling fans and air-conditioning vents to reduce nuisance alarms.
  • Mount alarms on the ceiling at least 300 mm away from walls, corners and light fittings.

Mounting a replaceable battery or 10-year sealed smoke alarm

Step 1 – Choose the location of the smoke alarm using the placement guide provided.

Step 2 – Use the mounting base ring to mark the screw holes.

Step 3 – Drill the holes and insert wall plugs if required.

Step 4 – Screw the mounting bracket to the ceiling using the screws and plugs provided.

Step 5 – Insert replaceable battery or follow the activation instructions supplied on the 10-year sealed alarm mode

Step 6 – Twist clockwise or clip the alarm onto the mounting bracket until it locks into place.

Step 7 – Press and hold the test button. The alarm should sound within a few seconds. If it doesn’t, remove the unit and check the battery or activation procedure.

How to install interconnected smoke alarms

Connect up to 32 Quell Q5000 wireless interconnected smoke alarms to create a fully wireless linked network.

Step 1 – Unpack each wireless interconnected smoke alarm that you plan to install

Step 2 – Choose the location of the smoke alarm using the placement guidance provided.

Step 3 – Use the mounting base ring to mark the screw holes.

Step 4 – Drill the holes and insert wall plugs if required.

Step 5 – Screw the mounting bracket using the screws and plugs provided.

Step 6 – Turn on the interconnect feature of each wireless interconnected smoke alarms, turn each alarm over and slide the switch to LEARN mode

Step 7 – Press the button on the top of 1 alarm only. This alarm will become the HOST and will start to transmit a specific code to each of the other wireless interconnected smoke alarms. As these alarms receive the code, they will flash red.

Step 8 – Once all alarms are flashing red, the interconnect feature is complete.

Step 9 – It is important to remember which alarm is the HOST alarm. Mark it with a sticker or label on the back as a reminder.

Step 10 – Turn over each alarm and turn off LEARN mode.

Step 11 – Now, you’re ready to install each individual wireless interconnect smoke alarm. Place unit on the mounted base and twist clockwise until it clicks and is locked into place. Repeat for each individual alarm.

Instructional videos at your fingertips

Visit the Quell Video Library for the full range of instructional videos on our range of photoelectric smoke alarms to ensure help is at hand, 24 hours a day.

Quell Library

Frequently asked questions

Have a question? Visit the Quell FAQ page for answers the most commonly asked questions.

Learn More

Where can I buy Quell smoke alarms

Quell smoke alarms are stocked at major retailers right across Australia, including

  • Bunnings
  • Mitre 10
  • Kmart
  • Coles
  • Woolworths
  • BigW

You can pick one up next time you’re already out shopping.

You can also find your nearest retailer by visiting our Stockist page.

Quell Stockists

Fire Safety for Pets

3 mins·Mar 12th, 2026
About 40,000 pets die in residential fires each year, most from smoke inhalation, and half a million pets are affected overall. Read below for steps you can take to get your family and your pets out faster. There are also safety measures you can implement to help prevent a pet from starting a fire in the first place.

Train Your Dogs to Correctly Respond to Alarms

As many pet parents know first-hand, pets may become unsettled or anxious once a smoke alarm sounds, hiding rather than exiting. Dogs can be trained to respond appropriately to smoke or carbon monoxide alarms going off, and either come to find you when it happens or escape outside themselves.

Tips for Pet-Proofing Against Fire

Here are a few items to consider:

  • If you like candles, get the flameless kind. Cat’s tails are notorious for knocking over the real ones.
  • Keep pets away from space heaters or lamps.
  • Get guards for your stove knobs, the child-proof kind, so paws can’t turn them on. Or even take them off entirely if you’re leaving the house.
  • Keep leftovers & flammable items off the stovetop, so pets aren’t tempted to jump up.
  • Use a metal or heat-tempered glass screen on a fireplace and keep it in place.
  • Some pets are chewers. Watch and deter them from chewing through electrical cords.

Preparation

Let’s get prepared. Here are a few items to start your preparation

Make An Escape Plan
Every family should have one. This handy chart from the National Fire Protection Association makes it easy.
Assign Family Members to Account For Each Pet
Know your pet’s favorite hiding spots, so that when the alarms sound, you can grab them and go.
Keep An Emergency Kit or Crate Near the Door
Packed with their food, medication and a leash – it can be a literal lifesaver.

Carbon Monoxide Safety for Pets

Like all members of the family, pets are just as susceptible to the dangers of carbon monoxide (CO). But, some pet parents may not know how to spot the symptoms. Kidde is sharing important advice to help people protect their furry family members.