Did you know that there are two types of sensors for smoke alarms? Understanding the difference between ionization and photoelectric smoke detectors can help provide better protection for your home and family.
The most common smoke detector is the ionization type, which senses hot fires and smoke. This is the type that often goes off when you burn your toast.
This type of smoke detector is installed in 90% of homes with installed smoke detectors and can be identified by the letter “I” on the smoke detector or its packaging.
A photoelectric smoke detector “sees” smoke and works better for cooler, smoldering fires, such as those produced by burning couches or mattresses.
Smoldering fires do not give off as many ions as a hot fire, and ionization detectors will often not go off in time to do much good in a smoldering fire. Photoelectric detectors can be identified by the letter “P” on the detector or its packaging.
Some smoke detectors utilize both ionization and photoelectric smoke detection. These can be identified with “I/P” on the detector or packaging, or may be labeled as dual purpose.
Do not confuse dual detection, ionization and photoelectric, with dual sensor alarms that detect both smoke and carbon monoxide. These are different types of detection devices.
It is recommended to utilize a stand-alone carbon monoxide detector along with both types of smoke detectors for complete protection for your home and family.
The National Fire Protection Association and United States Fire Administration recommend that you have both types of smoke alarms in your home for total protection. You can install separate smoke alarms on each floor of your home, or purchase a dual-purpose smoke alarm. These smoke alarms are readily available in home improvement stores.
Use both ionization and photoelectric smoke detection, either as separate alarms or through a dual-purpose smoke alarm.
Use a stand-alone carbon monoxide detector in addition to your smoke alarms for more complete home protection.
It is that time of year when people are going to start building fires in homes for heat. For your safety, and to prevent home fires, be sure to clean chimneys and stove pipes.
Creosote buildup can affect the airflow out of the stove or fireplace and can eventually lead to a fire that may cause substantial damage.