PSA Homeguard HG1000
- Mains Powered
- Ionisation Alarm
- 9 Volt Battery
- Production Status = Ceased
This was an early PSA release, widely installed. Reliable but awkward and uncomfortable for householders to change backup batteries. While reliable in its time, all units are now past their service life. Based on a combination of performance and longevity we would rate it highly, but with poor design we rate it 5 out of 10.
General Information
The PSA HG1000 is a 240vac mains powered single station and/or interconnectable (24 units) ionisation smoke alarm. 9V replaceable battery backup. Test and hush control and low battery indication. Supplied by PSA Products.
COMMON ISSUES & EXPIRY
- Difficult access when changing the backup battery, making the process awkward and frustrating for householders.
- Difficulty refitting the unit securely to the ceiling base after battery replacement or maintenance.
- Removing the alarm from its base exposes the ceiling hole into the roof space, which can allow dust, insulation, or debris to fall into the living area.
The HG1000 had a wide installation base and was generally a reliable performer in its day. However, like all smoke alarms, it has a 10-year service life, and all installed units are now expired and should be replaced.
How to Open
The HG1000 twists of its base. The power cord is attached to the smoke alarm, and can require a small phillips head screwdriver to release the power cable from the back of smoke alarm.
Our Opinion
The HG1000 was a solid, long-lasting design for its era and earned a reputation for reliability. However, its older style creates practical annoyances—particularly the difficult battery access, tricky refitting, and the exposed ceiling hole during maintenance—which make it uncomfortable and inconvenient for homeowners today.
While it scores highly for historical longevity and performance, these usability drawbacks and the fact that all units have now expired lead us to give it an overall rating of 5 out of 10. We recommend replacing HG1000 units with modern smoke alarms that offer easier battery access, cleaner installation, and better overall user experience.