Which Aico Smoke Alarm Replaces My Old Model?

If you have an older Aico or Ei Electronics smoke, heat or carbon monoxide alarm, choosing a replacement isn't always as simple as buying the newest model.

Aico has produced several generations of alarms, including the 140 Series, 160 Series and newer 3000 Series.

Some Aico alarms share mounting systems and can be straightforward to replace, while others have different power, battery backup or wireless interconnection requirements.

This guide explains what you should check before choosing a replacement.

Start With the Model Number

Before buying anything, identify the model number of your existing alarm.

Common Aico and Ei Electronics models include:

  • Ei141RC
  • Ei144RC
  • Ei146RC
  • Ei141e
  • Ei144e
  • Ei146e
  • Ei161e
  • Ei164e
  • Ei166e
  • Ei3014
  • Ei3016
  • Ei3018
  • Ei3024
  • Ei3028
  • Ei3030

The model number is normally printed on the alarm itself or on the label underneath the alarm.

Do not choose a replacement based only on appearance. Many Aico alarms look similar while performing different functions.

Identify What Type of Alarm You Have

The replacement needs to perform the correct function for its location.

Aico produces several different alarm types.

Optical smoke alarms detect smoke and are commonly installed in hallways, landings and living areas.

Heat alarms detect increases in temperature and are commonly used in kitchens, garages and other areas where smoke or fumes could cause unwanted alarms.

Multi-sensor fire alarms use multiple sensors to provide enhanced fire detection.

Carbon monoxide alarms detect carbon monoxide and perform a different function from smoke and heat alarms.

Replacing a heat alarm with a smoke alarm, for example, isn't simply a case of choosing whichever unit fits the existing base.

Understanding the Aico 3000 Series

The Aico 3000 Series includes several different alarms:

Ei3014 – Heat Alarm

Designed for heat detection and commonly used in locations such as kitchens and garages.

Ei3016 – Optical Smoke Alarm

Uses an optical smoke sensor and is suitable for areas including hallways, landings and living spaces.

Ei3018 – Carbon Monoxide Alarm

Designed specifically for carbon monoxide detection.

Ei3024 – Multi-Sensor Fire Alarm

Combines optical smoke and heat sensing technology.

Ei3028 – Multi-Sensor Heat & Carbon Monoxide Alarm

Combines heat and carbon monoxide detection.

Ei3030 – Multi-Sensor Fire & Carbon Monoxide Alarm

Provides combined fire and carbon monoxide detection within a single alarm.

The correct model depends on the protection required in that particular location.

Will a New Aico Alarm Fit My Existing Base?

This is one of the most common questions when replacing an Aico alarm.

Aico uses its easi-fit mounting system across a number of its mains-powered alarm ranges.

For example, Aico states that its 3000 Series and 140e Series use the same easi-fit base, which can make replacing an existing compatible alarm considerably easier.

However, you should not assume that every Aico alarm will fit every Aico base.

Always check the exact model and base before purchasing.

What About Older 140RC Alarms?

The 140RC Series is another commonly installed Aico range.

These are mains-powered alarms with replaceable 9V alkaline battery backup.

The range includes smoke and heat alarm variants and can also form part of an interconnected alarm system.

If you are replacing an older 140RC alarm, check the complete system rather than looking only at the individual alarm.

In particular, establish whether the alarms are:

  • Hardwired interconnected
  • Using a RadioLINK base
  • Operating independently

This can affect what is required when replacing or upgrading the alarm.

Hardwired Interconnection vs Wireless Interconnection

Aico alarms can form part of an interconnected system.

This means that when one alarm detects a fire, other interconnected alarms in the property can also sound.

Depending on the installation, this may be achieved through a physical interconnect wire or Aico's wireless technology.

When replacing one alarm in an interconnected system, you therefore need to consider whether the replacement will continue to communicate correctly with the rest of the system.

RadioLINK, RadioLINK+ and SmartLINK

Aico has developed several generations of wireless interconnection technology.

The module or base required depends on the alarm series.

For example, 3000 Series alarms can use an Ei3000MRF SmartLINK module, which plugs into the alarm to provide wireless interconnection.

Other Aico ranges use different modules or RadioLINK bases.

If your existing alarm has wireless interconnection, identify both the alarm and any module or RadioLINK base being used before choosing a replacement.

Can I Replace an Older Alarm With an Ei3000 Series Alarm?

In many installations, upgrading to the 3000 Series may be an option.

However, a newer model should not automatically be treated as a direct like-for-like replacement simply because it fits an existing base.

You should consider:

  • The function of the existing alarm
  • Existing base
  • Power supply
  • Hardwired interconnection
  • Wireless interconnection
  • RadioLINK or SmartLINK equipment
  • Other alarms connected to the system
  • Location of the alarm

The complete alarm system needs to continue providing the required protection after the replacement.

Do I Need to Replace Every Alarm at the Same Time?

Not necessarily.

There may be situations where an individual alarm can be replaced while other compatible alarms remain in service.

However, if several alarms were originally installed at the same time, they may also have similar Replace By dates.

It is therefore worth checking the labels on all of the alarms in the property.

If several are approaching the end of their recommended service life, replacing or upgrading the complete system may make more sense than replacing them individually.

Check the Replace By Date as Well

Compatibility isn't the only consideration when buying a replacement.

Check the Replace By date of both your existing alarm and the replacement you are considering.

Two alarms of exactly the same model can have very different amounts of remaining service life.

ReCircuit Resale therefore states the expiry or replacement year on applicable Aico alarm listings.

For more information, see our Aico Smoke Alarm Expiry Dates Explained guide.

Not Sure Which Aico Alarm You Have?

If you can't identify your existing alarm, take a clear photograph of:

  • The front of the alarm
  • The model number
  • The label on the rear or side
  • The existing base if relevant
  • Any RadioLINK or wireless module

Send the photographs to ReCircuit Resale and we can help identify the model and point you towards relevant products we currently have available.

Find Your Replacement Aico Alarm

ReCircuit Resale stocks a changing selection of new, new-other and used Aico and Ei Electronics alarms, including older models that can sometimes be difficult to source.

Our listings clearly identify the model and condition and, where applicable, the expiry or Replace By year.

This can be particularly useful when you need a specific existing model rather than replacing or upgrading an entire alarm system.

Important: Fire and carbon monoxide alarms are life-safety devices. Compatibility should always be confirmed for the specific installation. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and applicable regulations, and use a suitably competent person for mains electrical work.