Choosing The Right Smoke Alarm

4/15/2022 (Permalink)

Replace your smoke alarm every ten years.

There two most common types of smoke alarms are Photoelectric and Ionization. Each gets its name from the mechanism used to detect the presence of smoke.

Ionization smoke alarms use ionized particles to detect smoke. A tiny amount of radioactive material sits between two electrically charged plates. The reaction between these components generates a current. When smoke enters the detector, it disrupts this current and triggers the alarm. Ionization smoke detectors are best for detecting aggressive, open flame fires.

Photoelectric smoke alarms use a light beam and sensor to identify smoke. Once smoke permeates the alarm, it blocks the light beam and reflects it onto the sensor, triggering the alarm. Photoelectric alarms respond fastest to smoke produced by smoldering fires.

Smoke detection technology has advanced in the past several years. Many modern detectors include a combination of ionization and photoelectric sensors, making them capable of detecting all types of smoke.

Remember to replace your smoke alarm every ten years. When you're ready to upgrade your system, consider selecting a combination alarm.