The System Sensor 5603A Mechanical Heat Detector is a reliable fixed-temperature heat detector engineered for commercial, industrial, and institutional fire alarm systems. The detector activates when ambient temperatures reach 135°F (57°C) and is designed for locations where smoke detection may result in nuisance alarms or where environmental conditions make smoke detectors impractical.
Unlike rate-of-rise models, the 5603A uses a non-resettable fixed-temperature element that responds when a specific temperature threshold is reached. Once activated, the external collector drops from the detector body, providing a clear visual indication of the alarmed device.
The detector includes a versatile mounting bracket compatible with multiple electrical box configurations, simplifying installation across a wide range of building types.
Features & Benefits
- Single-circuit mechanical heat detector
- Fixed-temperature thermal sensing
- 135°F (57°C) activation temperature
- Non-resettable fixed-temperature design
- External alarm collector for visual indication
- UL maximum spacing of 25 ft x 25 ft on 10 ft ceilings
- Reversible mounting bracket for flush or surface mounting
- Compatible with common electrical backboxes
- Low-profile appearance
- Non-polarized wiring terminals
- UL, ULC and FM approved
Technical Specifications
- Model: 5603A
- Circuit Type: Single Circuit
- Sensor Type: Fixed Temperature
- Fixed Temperature Rating: 135°F (57°C)
- Maximum Installation Temperature: 100°F (38°C)
- UL Maximum Coverage: 25 ft × 25 ft
- Operating Humidity: 5% to 95% RH (non-condensing)
- Mounting Options: Single-gang, 3.5″ octagonal, 4″ octagonal, 4″ square with plaster ring
- Listings: UL, ULC, FM Approved
Typical Applications
- Storage rooms
- Utility rooms
- Mechanical spaces
- Elevator machine rooms
- Industrial environments
- Areas subject to dust, steam, or airborne contaminants




