Introduction to the Haydon HAY-FIRE-ISO Fire Isolation Switch
Haydon HAY-FIRE-ISO — Fire system isolation switch.The HAY-FIRE-ISO is a compact, purpose-built fire alarm isolation switch designed to make maintenance, testing and fault work on mains-powered fire alarm systems safer and more straightforward. Housed in a distinctive red plastic enclosure for instant visual identification, this unit provides double-pole isolation of the mains supply across a wide operating voltage range of 100–240 Vac and incorporates a 230 Vac, F4A fused protection. It is intended for use by qualified electricians or authorised installers and is stated by resellers to be suitable for systems in accordance with BS 5839-1.
Key features at a glance
- Operating voltage: 100–240 Vac — suitable for a wide range of installations.
- Double-pole switching — isolates both live and neutral conductors for safer isolation.
- Fused protection: 230 Vac, F4A — fuse is disconnected when the switch is OFF.
- Switch surge rating: 80 A — robust switching capability for typical fire alarm circuits.
- Compact red plastic enclosure — surface or flush mountable, visually compliant for fire alarm isolation.
- Reseller-listed as suitable for BS 5839-1 systems (confirm local approvals where required).
- 3-year reseller-listed warranty and small footprint: 62 × 86 × 86 mm; weight ≈0.26 kg.
Detailed specification and benefits
Understanding the technical specifications helps clarify why the HAY-FIRE-ISO is a practical choice for many fire alarm installations. Below are the key specifications and the benefits they bring in typical use:
- Operating voltage (100–240 Vac):The wide voltage window makes the switch suitable for both 230 Vac nominal mains and installations where supply variance occurs, meaning fewer product variants are required on site.
- Double-pole switch:Isolates both live and neutral conductors. This is an important safety feature when maintaining fire alarm control panels or mains-powered accessories because it reduces the chance of a circuit remaining partially live.
- Fused — 230 Vac, F4A:The included F4A fuse provides overcurrent protection appropriate to many fire alarm accessory circuits. The unit disconnects the fuse when switched OFF so the protective device isn't left in circuit during isolation.
- Switch surge rating (80 A):A higher surge rating gives tolerance to inrush currents and transient events, useful where accessories or control panels may present brief high-current demands.
- Enclosure:Red plastic housing designed to meet visual expectations for fire-related equipment. The color and compact form factor help ensure the isolation switch is easily located and identified during maintenance or emergencies.
- Mounting:Surface or flush mounting options allow flexibility across different site finishes and installation preferences.
- Dimensions and weight:At 62 × 86 × 86 mm and approximately 0.26 kg, the unit is small enough for tight cupboard spaces behind panels or inside riser cupboards while still providing accessible switching.
- Standards and compliance:Resellers state suitability for BS 5839-1 systems. This is commonly referenced in UK fire alarm practice; installers should confirm the unit meets any required local approvals and certifications for their jurisdiction before use.
- Warranty and support:A 3-year warranty (reseller-listed) provides a reasonable assurance period; check supplier contract for full terms.
Use cases and scenarios where the HAY-FIRE-ISO excels
The HAY-FIRE-ISO is aimed at trade professionals, contractors and facilities teams responsible for fire detection and alarm systems. Typical scenarios where it is particularly useful include:
- Planned maintenance and servicing:Isolating a fire alarm control panel or a mains-powered sounder circuit so technicians can work safely without powering down an entire building or risking live work.
- Commissioning and testing:Providing a local isolation point when commissioning new panels or accessories, allowing phased work without affecting other circuits.
- Fault isolation:Rapidly isolating a suspect circuit during fault finding to prevent nuisance triggering or to protect downstream devices while repairs are planned.
- Retrofit and access control:Due to its compact size and surface/flush mounting options, the unit is a convenient addition in retrofit scenarios where space is limited.
Comparisons with similar products on the market
When evaluating the HAY-FIRE-ISO against other fire isolation switches, there are several factors to consider: pole configuration, fuse type, enclosure style, certification, and additional features such as lockability or auxiliary contacts.
Some simpler isolators only switch the live conductor. The HAY-FIRE-ISO’s double-pole switching isolates both live and neutral, which many installers prefer for enhanced safety during hands-on maintenance. In markets or codes where double-pole isolation is recommended or required, the HAY-FIRE-ISO has an advantage.
The integrated F4A fuse protects downstream wiring and equipment in the event of an overcurrent. Unfused isolators are used where the circuit is already protected upstream or when a different fuse rating is required. The HAY-FIRE-ISO is positioned as a ready-to-install fused option for common fire alarm accessory circuits.
Plastic housings are lightweight, corrosion resistant and cost-effective, while metal enclosures can offer greater mechanical robustness and different aesthetic expectations in some commercial settings. The bright red plastic of the HAY-FIRE-ISO is deliberately chosen for fire system identification and is well-suited for indoor alarm cupboards and soft-environment installations.
Higher-end or specialty isolation switches may carry additional approvals (e.g., full third-party certification to a specific fire product standard, or UL listings for North America). Resellers list the HAY-FIRE-ISO as suitable for BS 5839-1 systems; if projects require specific local approvals beyond this statement, installers should confirm whether additional certification is necessary or preferred.
Typical installer feedback and customer considerations
No verified public customer reviews were provided with the product data supplied. However, based on the product’s specifications and typical installer priorities, the following points reflect the kind of feedback and considerations professionals often report:
- Ease of identification: The red housing and clear labeling make the switch easy to spot in alarm cupboards and plant rooms.
- Space-efficient: Compact dimensions suit retrofit work where space behind panels is limited.
- Safety preference: Installers appreciate double-pole isolation for peace of mind during maintenance.
- Verify approvals: Buyers commonly request clarity on formal certifications (beyond reseller statements) for projects with strict compliance requirements.
- Fuse replacement: Technicians note the importance of using the specified F4A fuse to maintain intended protection characteristics.
Buying, availability and practical notes
The HAY-FIRE-ISO is offered at a suggested price of 19.99 (check local currency and supplier pricing) and the reseller-listed stock shows limited quantities at the time of data collection. The unit carries a reseller-listed 3-year warranty. Always ensure installation is carried out by a qualified electrician or authorised installer, confirm local code compliance and verify that any necessary approvals are in place for your jurisdiction.
Conclusion: Why the Haydon HAY-FIRE-ISO is a solid choice
For contractors, facilities managers and fire alarm installers looking for a compact, clearly identifiable and practical fire isolation solution, the Haydon HAY-FIRE-ISO offers a compelling mix of features: double-pole isolation for improved safety, a fused 230 Vac F4A protection device, an 80 A surge rating to tolerate typical transient currents, and a small, mountable red enclosure that meets visual expectations for fire systems. It is especially suitable where BS 5839-1 compatibility is expected, space is limited, and straightforward fused isolation is required for maintenance, testing or fault work.
As with any safety-critical component, confirm that the HAY-FIRE-ISO meets the specific regulatory and certification demands of your project and region, use the specified fuse type for replacements, and ensure only competent personnel perform installation and isolation verification. When those checks are satisfied, the HAY-FIRE-ISO is an efficient, purpose-built accessory that simplifies safe working on mains-powered fire alarm circuitry.
