Smoke Detector
What is a smoke detector and how does it work? a lot of inquiring minds want to know. most people (unless you live under a rock) know what smoke detectors are but are not quite sure how they work. they just know it’s important to have and it is something that is generally regulated for homes and businesses.
For those that do live under a rock: a smoke detector is classified as a device that detects smoke which typically is an indicator of fire. it is the smoke from a fire that kills, not the fire itself.
Smoke detectors are generally encased in a round disk-shaped plastic enclosure and work either by optical detection or by a physical process called ionization and then there are some that work using both methods to increase sensitivity to smoke.
For large commercial buildings, smoke detectors are generally powered by a central fire alarm system through the building power. Residential and single family homes are most likely powered by a single disposable battery.
Smoke detectors are very inexpensive and truly one of the most remarkable inventions ever made because it costs virtually nothing to produce but have saved thousands of lives each year. You can purchase one for as little as $7 and is recommended that every home have one detector per floor as well as in each bedroom.
Smoke detectors, also known as smoke alarms, are made up of two basic parts, a sensor that will sense smoke, and a loud deafening sound that can wake the dead. many detectors run off of a 9 volt battery or 120 volt house current.
There are two types of smoke detectors: Photoelectric and Ionization
The Photoelectric smoke alarm senses the lack of light and clarity in the air and will trigger a bell sound. the drawback to this type of alarm is that it would have to become very cloudy with smoke before it alerts you of a possible fire. it would have to be smoky enough to block out the light.
Ionization smoke alarms use what is called an ionization chamber and a source of radiation to detect smoke. these are the more common every day household smoke alarms and are much more sensitive to smoke. When smoke enters the chamber of the alarm, it will disrupt the delicate source of ionization radiation and sound an alarm. the amount of radiation in a smoke detector is extremely small and perfectly safe.
So, which smoke detector is more reliable?
Both ionization and photoelectric detectors are effective at sensing smoke and are required to pass the same certification testing. Ionization detectors will respond more quickly to a flaming fire with smaller smoke particles while photoelectric detectors will respond more quickly to a smoldering fire. Ionization smoke detectors are less expensive and have a built-in security system that will alert you when the battery is low giving you time to change the battery before it becomes ineffective. Ionization detectors, however, can be easily disabled and many will take out the battery when it detects steam from cooking or high humidity leading to condensation on the circuit board. Choosing the right smoke alarm is a personal and individualized choice. Both are very effective.
Testing your Smoke Alarm
It’s very important to test your detector on a regular basis to ensure it is working properly. What’s the point of having a smoke alarm if it isn’t functioning?
The instructions are simple:
1. Always test your smoke alarm once a month around the same date each month
2. Push the test button on your detector and wait for the device to beep or ring
3. Do not use lighted candles or cigarette lighters to test your smoke alarm. Repeated use of smoke to activate detectors can cause them to fail and you want your detector to notify you for the real thing.
More helpful information:
Change the batteries in your smoke alarm whenever you change your clocks for the start and end of daylight-savings time.
If your detector starts to chirp or beep that means your battery needs to be changed.
It is a good idea to purchase a combination smoke detector/carbon monoxide detector which are a little more expensive but well worth the added protection.
If your smoke detector goes off, assume the worst and get out of the building. Do not stop for possessions. Have a pre-determined spot outside to meet up with other members of the household and the first one out should ask someone to call 911
Avoid getting paint and dust in your smoke alarm
Replace your smoke detectors after 10 years or what is recommended in the instructions of your newly purchased smoke detector.
