Introduction: Meet the Pyronix SMOKE‑WE2
The Pyronix SMOKE‑WE2 is a two‑way wireless photoelectric (optical) smoke detector engineered for seamless integration with Pyronix Enforcer wireless alarm systems. Combining reliable smouldering‑fire detection with two‑way 868 MHz communication, an 85 dB local sounder, supervised tamper switches and long‑life battery power, the SMOKE‑WE2 extends an intruder alarm into life‑safety detection. Its certified compliance (EN 14604) and built‑in installation aids make it a strong choice for installers and end users who need monitored smoke detection in domestic and light commercial settings.
Key features at a glance
- Photoelectric (optical) sensing:Optimised for detecting smouldering fires.
- Two‑way Enforcer wireless (868 MHz):Reliable communication with Signal Strength Indicator (SSI) for easy siting and stable monitoring.
- Local audible and visual alarm:85 dB sounder at 3 m and a flashing red LED for clear on‑site alerting.
- Supervised security:Front and rear tamper switches and panel supervision to report faults.
- Simple installation:One‑push learn enrolment, removable smoke chamber for maintenance, and a manual test button.
- Battery powered:Supplied with 1 × CR123A 3V lithium battery (minimum 2 years typical life).
- Standards and warranty:Certified to EN 14604 and CE marked, with a 2‑year manufacturer warranty.
Specifications and detailed benefits
Understanding the SMOKE‑WE2 starts with its specification set and how those technical details translate to everyday benefits:
- Sensor type:Photoelectric (optical). Benefit: more sensitive to smouldering, low‑flame fires that produce larger smoke particles and can be missed by ionisation sensors. This makes the SMOKE‑WE2 particularly good for detecting slow‑burning upholstery or electrical fires early.
- Sound level:85 dB at 3 m. Benefit: loud enough to wake sleeping occupants and prompt evacuation, meeting typical audible alarm expectations for life‑safety devices.
- LED & test:Manual test button; LED indicates RSSI (signal strength) and battery status. Benefit: installers can confirm both radio link and power at the device during commissioning; end users can test operation easily during routine checks.
- Two‑way Enforcer 868 MHz:Two‑way communication provides confirmation that messages are received and enables the system to monitor device health. Benefit: fewer missed events and clearer diagnostics for remote monitoring.
- Tamper protection:Front and rear supervised tamper switches. Benefit: alerts if the detector is removed or interfered with, adding an extra layer of reliability for monitored installations.
- Enrolment:One‑push‑to‑learn. Benefit: faster installation and reduced commissioning time for integrators.
- Battery:1 × CR123A (3V) included. Benefit: compact lithium cell with good energy density and stable performance across a wide temperature range.
- Battery life:Minimum 2 years typical. Benefit: lower maintenance cadence and reduced repeat visits to replace batteries compared with some other battery‑powered devices.
- Low battery response:Chirp and panel supervision. Benefit: proactive warning to replace battery before the detector becomes non‑operational.
- Dimensions:120 × 120 mm; base depth stated around 5.3 mm. Benefit: compact footprint suits a wide range of ceilings and mounting positions.
- Operating temperature:−10 °C to +50 °C. Benefit: suitable for most domestic and light commercial environments.
- Certifications:EN 14604:2005+AC:2008; CE. Benefit: meets European standards for smoke alarm performance and safety.
Use cases and scenarios where the SMOKE‑WE2 excels
The SMOKE‑WE2 is designed for situations where monitored, reliable smoke detection is required and where wireless integration simplifies installation or retrofitting.
- Domestic installations with a monitored alarm panel:Homeowners using a Pyronix Enforcer system gain integrated life‑safety reporting — alarms at the detector trigger local sirens and report to the panel (and through the panel to apps/monitoring services if configured).
- Period properties and retrofits:In older houses where running wiring is disruptive or costly, the wireless SMOKE‑WE2 provides compliant smoke detection without plastering or chasing walls.
- Small commercial premises:Offices, small retail outlets, and care‑homes where monitored alarms are required but a fully wired fire detection system is not practical. The supervised tamper switches and two‑way supervision provide installation assurance.
- Installations prioritising early smouldering fire detection:Bedrooms, lounges, or places with soft furnishings benefit from photoelectric sensing, which tends to detect smouldering fires sooner than ionisation sensors.
- Multi‑sensor deployments with integrated security:Sites already using Pyronix intruder alarms can extend monitoring to include life‑safety without adding separate communications infrastructure.
How it compares with similar products
When evaluating smoke detectors, consider detection technology, communication, supervision and maintenance. The SMOKE‑WE2 compares favourably in several areas:
- Photoelectric (SMOKE‑WE2): Better at detecting smouldering fires and sources that produce larger smoke particles. Less prone to nuisance alarms from cooking steam or frying (when sited correctly).
- Ionisation: More sensitive to fast‑flaming fires with smaller particles, but generally more prone to false alarms from common household activities. Many modern installations favour photoelectric devices for bedrooms and general living spaces.
- SMOKE‑WE2 (monitored two‑way): Reports to the control panel, supports supervision, tamper detection and RSSI checks. Benefit: central monitoring and diagnostics, helpful for monitored premises and remote oversight.
- Standalone battery alarms: Cheaper and simple, but lack supervision and central reporting. They rely on local sounding only and require manual battery replacement without panel alerts.
- Smart Wi‑Fi detectors (consumer brands) often have app notifications, self‑tests and integrations with smart home ecosystems. However, they depend on site Wi‑Fi, can be more complex to commission, and may not provide the supervised, tamper‑resistant reporting required by professional monitored alarm systems.
- SMOKE‑WE2 integrates directly with a professional Enforcer alarm panel, offering robust radio supervision and compliance for monitored installations where reliability and accountability are priorities.
Representative customer feedback and installer perspectives
While individual experiences vary, typical feedback from installers and end users highlights a few consistent strengths:
- "Easy to commission — one‑push enrolment and SSI made siting straightforward." (installer perspective)
- "Reliable reporting to the panel gives peace of mind for monitored properties." (property manager)
- "The photoelectric sensor reduced false alarms compared with older ionisation alarms in our flats." (landlord/tenant feedback)
Installers often note the practical benefits of supervised tamper switches and the removable smoke chamber, which simplifies maintenance and cleaning during service visits.
Conclusion: Why choose the Pyronix SMOKE‑WE2?
The Pyronix SMOKE‑WE2 strikes a strong balance between reliable photoelectric smoke detection, professional two‑way wireless supervision and practical installer‑friendly features. It is an excellent choice when you need monitored smoke detection that integrates with a Pyronix Enforcer system — offering loud local alarming, tamper supervision, straightforward commissioning and a long‑life CR123A battery.
For homeowners, landlords and small business owners seeking a professional, standards‑compliant smoke detector that reduces nuisance alarms while providing central reporting and oversight, the SMOKE‑WE2 is a compelling option. Always ensure installation and commissioning are carried out by a competent installer and follow local regulations and the manufacturer’s guidance for siting and maintenance.
Product reminder:The SMOKE‑WE2 is certified to EN 14604 and supplied with a CR123A battery. It is intended to be part of a monitored alarm system and should complement, not replace, overall fire safety measures such as escape planning, safe electrics and appropriate fire prevention practices.