Introduction: Ajax FireProtect 2 SB (Black) — what it is and why it matters
Ajax FireProtect 2 SB (Black)is a wireless indoor smoke and rapid‑heat detector designed for homes, small businesses and connected properties that require reliable early fire detection without frequent maintenance. The SB variant ships with sealed, non‑replaceable lithium batteries with a nominal 10‑year life, removing the need for yearly battery swaps. It connects to Ajax security hubs using the Jeweller two‑way encrypted radio protocol, provides an 85 dB built‑in siren and includes features intended to reduce false alarms such as a dust‑ and insect‑protected optical chamber and algorithmic filtering.
Key features at a glance
- Multi‑threat detection:dual‑spectrum optical smoke chamber plus a thermistor for rapid heat detection (Class A1R).
- Long, maintenance‑free operation:sealed batteries with a nominal 10‑year life (SB variant).
- Reliable wireless link:Jeweller encrypted two‑way telemetry with long open‑space range (up to ~1,700 m depending on region and environment).
- Audible deterrent:built‑in 85 dB siren with synchronous interconnection via hub and fallback direct interconnection between detectors.
- False‑alarm resistance:protected smoke chamber and software filtering reduce nuisance triggers from cooking or dust.
- Professional features:tamper detection, communication supervision, SmartBracket mounting plate and 24‑month warranty.
Detailed specifications and benefits
The FireProtect 2 SB is engineered to balance sensitivity and resistance to nuisance alarms. Its dual‑spectrum optical smoke chamber increases the chance of detecting different types of combustion particles, while the thermistor heat sensor catches rapid temperature rises or extreme ambient temperatures that indicate a fast‑developing fire. Typical alarm thresholds include a high‑temperature alarm above ~64°C and a spike alarm for rapid rises of ~10–11°C within one minute. CO sensing is available in CO variants, but not in the standard SB smoke/heat model.
Key technical points and the practical benefits they deliver:
- Sealed 10‑year battery (SB):Two sealed lithium batteries provide a nominal decade of operation — ideal for installations where regular maintenance is difficult. Low battery notifications are sent via the Ajax app, LED indicators and audible signals well before the device reaches end of life.
- Jeweller encrypted communication:Uses a robust, two‑way GFSK radio link for secure telemetry. Long transmission range in open space reduces the need for repeaters in compact residential or small commercial settings.
- 85 dB siren and interconnection:Built‑in siren mounted in the detector delivers a loud local alert; the hub enables synchronous network‑wide alarms (typically within ~20 seconds), while direct detector‑to‑detector fallback occurs if the hub is unavailable.
- Anti‑nuisance design:The smoke chamber is dust‑ and insect‑protected and paired with algorithmic filtering to minimize false triggers from cooking steam, dust or insects — reducing unnecessary evacuations and lost trust in detectors.
- Installation and maintenance:SmartBracket mounting simplifies mounting and removes the detector quickly for testing. The device is rated IP20 and designed for indoor use between 0°C and +50°C with up to 80% non‑condensing humidity.
The detector measures approximately 123.7 × 123.7 × 44.7 mm and weighs around 270 g. It is designed to meet applicable EN/BS fire safety standards for residential applications; installers must follow local regulations and the official Ajax manual for optimal placement, service intervals and safe end‑of‑life disposal. The SB model is covered by a 24‑month warranty.
Use cases and scenarios where FireProtect 2 SB excels
- Homes and apartments:The sealed 10‑year battery and unobtrusive appearance make it ideal for homeowners who want set‑and‑forget protection without annual battery changes. Integration with a smart security hub enables remote alerts and coordinated alarms across multiple detectors.
- Small businesses and offices:Retail shops, offices and small hospitality venues benefit from the detector’s interconnection features and supervised wireless link, which support coordinated evacuation alerts and simplified installation without running cabling.
- Rental properties and managed housing:Property managers appreciate the long battery life and supervision features that reduce maintenance visits while ensuring tenants are protected.
- Smart home integrations:When linked to an Ajax hub, the detector can work alongside alarm systems, cameras and automation routines — for example, unlocking doors and turning on lights automatically when an alarm is triggered to aid evacuation.
- Hard‑to‑service locations:In locations where regular visits are impractical (secondary residences, elderly care facilities with on‑site staff but limited electrician access), the nominal 10‑year battery life is a major advantage.
How it compares to similar detectors on the market
There are many smoke and multi‑sensor detectors available; comparing FireProtect 2 SB to popular alternatives helps highlight where it shines.
- Battery life:The sealed 10‑year battery on the SB variant is more maintenance‑free than many smart detectors that rely on replaceable batteries or shorter‑life built‑ins. Some competitors offer replaceable batteries or rechargeable options, which can require more frequent attention.
- Connectivity model:Ajax uses its proprietary Jeweller two‑way encrypted protocol designed for security and long range; other smart detectors often rely on Wi‑Fi or Zigbee/Z‑Wave. Wi‑Fi models provide direct cloud connectivity but can be more vulnerable to local network outages and usually consume more power.
- False‑alarm filtering:Dual‑spectrum optical sensing plus thermistor heat detection and software filtering gives Ajax a robust approach to reducing nuisance alarms, similar to higher‑end multi‑sensor devices in the market.
- Professional features:Ajax emphasises supervised alarm links, tamper detection and professional installations; consumer brands may focus more on user experience and cloud services.
- Detection scope:Multi‑sensor detectors that combine smoke and heat provide faster and more reliable detection across a range of fire types compared with single‑sensor units.
- Maintenance and lifecycle:The sealed battery and long design life reduce lifetime maintenance when compared to cheaper detectors with replaceable batteries that can go unchecked.
What customers typically report
While individual experiences vary, commonly reported positives from users of Ajax FireProtect devices include the long battery life of SB variants, reliable wireless connectivity in typical home environments, reduced false alarms compared with basic smoke detectors and the convenience of hub‑coordinated alerts. Users also praise the straightforward installation with SmartBracket and the modern, low‑profile design that blends into interiors.
Points of feedback to consider: installers and technicians note that optimal performance depends on correct placement (ceiling mounting away from kitchens and bathrooms to avoid steam triggers) and following local codes. Because the SB batteries are sealed, the detector is intended to be replaced at end of life rather than serviced by end users — customers who prefer replaceable batteries should consider the RB variant.
Conclusion: why choose Ajax FireProtect 2 SB (Black)
Ajax FireProtect 2 SB (Black) is a strong choice for anyone seeking a low‑maintenance, professional‑grade smoke and rapid‑heat detector that integrates with a secure wireless alarm ecosystem. Its combination of dual‑spectrum optical smoke sensing, Class A1R thermistor heat detection, long sealed battery life and Jeweller encrypted communications positions it between consumer smart detectors and professional commercial systems.
For homeowners, landlords and small businesses that prioritise reliability, simplicity and minimal ongoing maintenance, the FireProtect 2 SB delivers a compelling blend of features. Its 85 dB local alarm, supervised network link and anti‑nuisance design make it well suited to real‑world conditions where false alarms and maintenance costs are major concerns. Backed by a 24‑month warranty and designed to meet relevant EN/BS standards, it is a practical, modern option for improving fire safety in connected properties.
Price note:the suggested retail position gives it a mid‑to‑upper range price point compared with basic consumer detectors; the long battery life, professional telemetry and interconnection features justify the investment for users who value reduced maintenance and professional‑grade performance.
