Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless, and tasteless gas that can be fatal within hours.
In the UK, buying a certified carbon monoxide detector is not just a safety decision for landlords, it’s a legal obligation. This guide covers where to buy CO alarms in the UK, what the BS EN 50291 standard means, the 2026 landlord regulations, and why the Anka ajK83X series is a prime opportunity for UK distributors and wholesalers.
Where to Buy Carbon Monoxide Detectors in the UK
Reputable UK hardware retailers stock certified CO alarms that meet British standards.
The most trusted outlets include:
- Screwfix — Offers a wide range of trade-grade CO detectors, including 10-year sealed battery models from leading brands.
- B&Q — Stocks the FireAngel FA3820-T2 (10-year sealed battery, BS EN 50291-1:2018 & BS EN 50291-2:2019 certified) and the SAFE-TECH AJ-833Si wireless interlinked model with 10-year sealed battery and BS EN 50291-1:2018 compliance.
- Other tested brands — Aico, FireAngel, and Kidde are consistently top-rated in UK consumer tests for reliability and standards compliance.
When purchasing, always verify the box displays “BS EN 50291” and, ideally, the British Kitemark or BSI certification mark.
Understanding the BS EN 50291 Standard
BS EN 50291 is the British and European standard for carbon monoxide alarms in domestic premises. It defines performance requirements, including:
- BS EN 50291-1:2018 — For fixed CO alarms in residential homes.
- BS EN 50291-2:2019 — For alarms in recreational vehicles, caravans, and boats.
Alarms certified to this standard must respond within specified timeframes (e.g., 50–100 ppm within 80 minutes, 100–300 ppm within 30 minutes, 300 ppm within 50 seconds) and include
an end-of-life indicator. Only alarms bearing this certification are lawful for rental compliance in England, Wales, and Scotland.
2026 UK Landlord Legal Requirements
Since 1 October 2022, the Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (Amendment) Regulations 2022 require landlords in England, Wales, and Scotland to install a CO alarm in any room used as living accommodation that contains a fixed combustion appliance this includes gas boilers, gas fires, oil-fired boilers, and solid-fuel burners. Gas cookers
are specifically excluded.
Key Landlord Duties:
- Install BS EN 50291-compliant alarms in every applicable room.
- Ensure alarms are in working order at the start of each new tenancy.
- Test the alarm on the first day of the tenancy and document the test.
- Repair or replace faulty alarms as soon as reasonably practicable after tenant notification.
Penalty: Local housing authorities can impose fines of up to £5,000 per breach. The alarm must be audible throughout the property, feature a battery backup or mains power with battery backup, and not be past its replacement date.
Why Choose 10-Year Sealed Battery Models
The most future-proof choice for UK homes and rentals is a 10-year sealed battery carbon monoxide detector. Benefits include:
- No battery replacements for the entire product lifespan.
- Tamper-proof design — tenants cannot remove batteries.
- Compliance with Scottish legislation, which mandates sealed batteries.
- Cost-effective over the product’s lifetime despite a higher upfront price.
Leading models like the FireAngel FA3820-T2 and SAFE-TECH AJ-833Si (both available at B&Q) demonstrate the market demand for sealed, long-life CO detection. The electrochemical sensor
in these units typically lasts 7–10 years before the entire unit must be replaced.
Anka ajK83X Series: BSI-Certified for the UK Market
For UK distributors and wholesalers seeking a reliable, certified CO detector brand, the Anka ajK83X series stands out. This range of carbon monoxide detectors has obtained BSI certification and fully meets UK market requirements, including compliance with BS EN 50291-1:2018.
Key Features of the Anka ajK83X Series:
- ✅ BSI-certified to BS EN 50291-1:2018 standard
- ✅ 10-year sealed battery options available (Model variants: AJ-83X, AJ-83XN, AJ-83XW, AJ-83XZ, AJ-83XSI4, AJ-83XSI8, and more)
- ✅ Electrochemical sensor for rapid, accurate CO detection
- ✅ LCD display options showing real-time ppm readings
- ✅ 85 dB buzzer alarm at 3 metres
- ✅ Wireless interlinked capability for whole-home coverage
- ✅ Peak level memory and end-of-life indicator
The Anka ajK83X series is manufactured by Anka Sci-tech Co., Limited, a company with over 19 years of experience in fire and home safety alarms. Their factory is ISO 9001 & ISO 14001 certified,
and the company holds multiple international certifications including CE, UKCA, UL217, UL2034, and the BSI Kitemark.
Wholesale Opportunities for UK Distributors
With the UK consumer-grade electrochemical CO sensor market forecast to grow from 4.8–5.6 million units in 2026 to 7.5–9.5 million units by 2035, demand for certified carbon monoxide detectors has never been higher.
The Anka ajK83X series is now available for wholesale to UK distributors.
Benefits for your business:
- 🏷️ Competitive factory-direct pricing with flexible MOQ
- 📜 Full certification documentation (BSI, BS EN 50291, UKCA, CE)
- 🚚 Reliable lead times (typically 15–35 days for production)
- 🔧 ODM/OEM support — custom branding, packaging, and model variations
- 💼 1–3 years warranty on all products
Ready to stock the Anka ajK83X series? Contact our export team today to request a quote, obtain certification files, and discuss volume pricing for the UK market.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Are carbon monoxide detectors mandatory in the UK?
A: Yes, for rental properties. Since October 2022, landlords in England, Wales, and Scotland must install a BS EN 50291-compliant CO alarm in every room used as living accommodation that
contains a fixed combustion appliance (excluding gas cookers). Fines can reach £5,000.
Q2: What standard should a UK carbon monoxide detector meet?
A: The alarm must conform to BS EN 50291-1:2018 (for residential homes) or BS EN 50291-2:2019 (for caravans and boats). Look for the British Kitemark or BSI certification mark.
Q3: Where can I buy certified CO detectors in the UK?
A: Reputable hardware stores like Screwfix and B&Q stock certified models from brands such as Aico, FireAngel, Kidde, and SAFE-TECH. For wholesale quantities, UK distributors can source the BSI-certified Anka ajK83X series directly from the manufacturer.
Q4: How long do carbon monoxide detectors last?
A: Most CO alarms have a sensor life of 7–10 years. 10-year sealed battery models are recommended as they eliminate the need for battery changes and ensure continuous protection.
Q5: Is the Anka ajK83X series suitable for the UK market?
A: Yes. The Anka ajK83X series has obtained BSI certification, meets BS EN 50291-1:2018, and is available for wholesale to UK distributors. It offers 10-year sealed battery options, LCD displays,
and wireless interlinking capabilities.
