What is the difference between an ionizing and photo electric smoke detector?

Ionization smoke alarms are generally more responsive to flaming fires. Photoelectric smoke alarms are generally more responsive to fires that begin with a long period of smoldering (called “smoldering fires”).

Can you mix ionization and photoelectric smoke detectors?

You can create the safest environment possible for your family by installing a mix of photoelectric and ionization smoke detectors. It’s too risky to go with one and not the other because there is no way to predict what type of fire threat your home may experience.

Why are ionization smoke detectors banned?

Because ionization units are very prone to nuisance tripping from cooking, etc., people become frustrated and intentionally disable the units – i.e. they remove the battery, etc. This leaves the home unprotected. Homes with non-functional smoke alarms account for around 2/3’s of all fire deaths.

Where do you put ionization and photoelectric smoke detectors?

According to the NFPA, smoke alarms should be placed in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every level of your home. In addition, industry experts recommend having both photoelectric and ionization alarms for optimal protection against flaming and smoldering fires.

Which is better smoke detector photoelectric or ionization?

Ionization smoke alarms tend to respond faster to the smoke produced by flaming fires than photoelectric smoke alarms. Photoelectric smoke alarms tend to respond faster to the smoke produced by smoldering fires than ionization smoke alarms.

What is the most reliable smoke detector?

Best Overall: Kidde Battery-Operated Combination Smoke/Carbon Monoxide Alarm with Voice Warning. There are plenty of great smoke detectors on the market, but this combo unit from Kidde sets the bar for ease of install, superior detection, and multi-type alerts.

Is photoelectric or ionization better for bedroom?

Photoelectric alarms are more sensitive to smoldering fires in living rooms, bedrooms and kitchens, where heavy furniture, mattresses and synthetic countertops are more likely to burn slowly. Photoelectric alarms save lives, he says. Ionization alarms rarely save lives.

Where are ionization smoke detectors banned?

They travel the United States educating the public and promoting laws which prohibit the use of ionization smoke alarms unless supplemented by photoelectric alarms. Three states (Iowa, Massachusetts and Vermont) and several communities have banned ionization smoke alarms as standalone smoke detectors.

Are ionization smoke detectors safe?

There is no health threat from ionization smoke detectors as long as the detector is not damaged and used as directed. Do not tamper with your smoke detectors, as it could damage the shielding around the radioactive source inside of them. There are no special disposal instructions for ionization smoke detectors.

Where are ionization smoke detectors used?

Most house fires are categorized as fast-flaming fires, which is why ionization alarms are popular in homes. To be safe, we recommend having both types of home fire detectors installed or installing combination smoke alarms that detect multiple types of fires.

What smoke detector do firemen recommend?

Since no one can predict what type of fire might start in their home, the USFA recommends that every home and place where people sleep have: Both ionization AND photoelectric smoke alarms. OR. Dual sensor smoke alarms, which contain both ionization and photoelectric smoke sensors.

When to use both ionization AND photoelectric smoke alarms?

For best protection, it is recommended both (ionization and photoelectric) technologies be used in homes. In addition to individual ionization and photoelectric alarms, combination alarms that include both technologies in a single device are available.

How can I tell if my smoke detector is ionization?

Most residences have smoke detectors installed before their inhabitants move in. To find out whether you have ionization, photoelectric or dual sensor alarms take the smoke alarm down from the ceiling or wall and inspect the back. You may want to find professional help to do this.

What happens when smoke enters an ionization chamber?

When smoke enters the chamber, it disrupts the flow of ions, thus reducing the flow of current and activating the alarm. Download this chart on ionization smoke alarms (PDF, 943 KB).

How does a photoelectric smoke detector sensor work?

Photoelectric Smoke Detectors contain a light source in a light sensitive electric sensor which is positioned at 90 degree angles to one another. Normally light from the light source shoots straight across and misses the light sensor. When smoke enters the chamber it scatters the light which then hits the sensor and triggers the alarm.