Types of Alarms

When purchasing a smoke alarm for your home, it is important to be aware that two types of smoke alarms are available to the public: Ionization and Photoelectric.

Ionization smoke alarm typically are better at detecting fast flaming fires, which consume combustible materials rapidly and spread quickly. Examples of fast flaming fires include paper burning in a wastebasket, or a grease fire in the kitchen.

Photoelectric smoke alarm generally are more effective on slow smoldering fires. These are fires that smolder for hours before bursting into flames, such as when a lighted cigarette is dropped onto a couch or bedding.

There also is a dual or double sensor alarm, which is effective at detecting both slow smoldering fires and flaming fires.

Cost

Photoelectric alarms and sensor alarms are usually more expensive than the most commonly used ionization alarm.

Battery Considerations

It is recommended that you replace the batteries twice a year. A long-life battery, which lasts up to 10 years, is now available for smoke alarms. These batteries work best in newer smoke alarms; smoke alarms should be replaced after 10 years. Be aware that a new long-life battery could actually outlive an older smoke alarm, giving people a false sense of security.

Placement

The most important thing to remember with any smoke alarm is its placement and maintenance. Smoke alarms need to be placed inside and outside of all bedrooms and on every level of a home. Placement in areas such as the kitchen or near the bathroom door may cause false alarms.

Maintenance

It is recommended that you clean your smoke alarms every few months to keep dust from affecting the sensitivity of the alarm, a dirty alarm can lead to false alarms. This can be done with a can of air, like is used for a computer, or a vacuum.