Recommended Working Life of Apollo Detectors

Detectors manufactured by Apollo have a recommended working life of 10 years when used in dry, non-corrosive atmospheres and provided that they are regularly inspected, tested, cleaned and recalibrated as outlined in these pages. This period has been assessed on the basis of information provided by component suppliers and on twenty years' experience of servicing these products.

Most Apollo detectors will continue to operate within specification after 10 years' service, however, gradual deterioration of integrity and reliability should be allowed for.

In the interests of safety and the avoidance of unwanted alarms, Apollo recommends the rountine replacement of detectors after 10 years service.

Discovery Carbon Monoxide Detectors

The electro-chemical cell used in the Discovery carbon monoxide fire detector has a maximum life of seven years. High temperature or low relative humidity can, however, reduce the cell life and therefore detectors must be functionally tested at least once a year. Discovery carbon monoxide detectors have a remote self test feature and this should be used to verify that the electro-chemical cell is active. Any detector failing these tests should be returned to Apollo's service department.

How to determine the age of an Apollo detector

The age of an Apollo product can be determined by the serial number. However, due to factored products and changes within Apollo to improve production, the serial number formats have changed over time.

Below are the four formats used. All ther serial number formats represent the same date ie April 2002. 

For information on product identification labels, please click here.

Detectors manufactured by Apollo which do not have a serial number can only have their age determined by referring to serialised records held at Apollo. The absence of a serial number would mean that the detector was made before March 1981.

For more information regarding determining the age of Apollo detectors, please consult the table below or contact the Service Department.