Should You Upgrade to a Smart Detector?

4/29/2021 (Permalink)

Take A Look At The Different Types Of Smoke Detectors

While households in San Mateo, CA, have used the lifesaving benefits of smoke alarm systems for decades, smart detectors are now on the market. Before you decide whether to upgrade, you can take a look at the different kinds of detectors and how they function.
Detectors fall into these main categories:

• Ionization
• Photoelectric
• Dual-sensor
  
  

What Is an Ionization Smoke Detector?
This type of detector has two electrically charged plates with a small amount of radioactive material between them. Electric current flows as the air in the middle is ionized. When smoke gets in the ionized space, it interrupts the ion flow, reducing the current and triggering an alarm. Ionization detectors respond slightly faster to fires that produce lots of flames.

What Is a Photoelectric Smoke Alarm?
A photoelectric alarm has a light beam in a chamber at an angle to the sensor. When smoke enters the chamber, it reflects light onto the sensor and triggers an alarm. Photoelectric smoke detectors are slightly more sensitive to smoldering fires.
The U.S. Fire Administration said both alarms will detect smoldering and flaming fires, but because no one can predict a type of fire, it is best to have both kinds or a dual-sensor alarm for fire safety.

What Is a Smart Detector?
A smart detector uses traditional technology, but it can notify you and alert emergency services when no one is home because it connects to the internet. This technology can save you from a more extensive fire that might require mitigation from an emergency restoration company.
You can also choose a device called a listener, which alerts you when it picks up the specific frequency of an alarm. Another option is a smart battery, which fits an alarm like a 9-volt battery but notifies you if the alarm is activated or the battery is low.
You have many options when it comes to choosing a smoke alarm system. A smart detector offers some advantages over traditional detectors, but the most important choice you can make is to keep a working system in your home at all times