When it comes to keeping your home safe and compliant here on the Sunshine Coast, nothing beats a properly fitted 240V mains powered smoke alarm. Also known as hard-wired or 240 volt alarms, these beauties are widely regarded as the more reliable choice. Why? Because they run off two power sources — mains electricity and a backup battery — giving you double the protection, especially when things go dark.

Where ceiling space allows, mains powered alarms are always the recommended go-to. They’re ideal for new installations, upgrades, and renovations where wiring access is a breeze. But in homes where ceiling access is tight or downright impossible, you’re not out of options — 10-year lithium battery photoelectric smoke alarms are still compliant and provide solid coverage. It’s all about working with what your home allows.

Every 240V smoke alarm legally must have a backup battery in case of power failure. You’ve got two options here: the old-school 9V battery, which needs replacing each year (set a reminder), or the sleek, low-maintenance 10-year lithium battery that charges itself and never needs changing. These lithium options are fast becoming the favourite for good reason — less fuss, same peace of mind.