Smoke Detector: Which one to buy?

8/19/2019 (Permalink)

In Order to Find the Right Alarm, You Need to Know the Various Types

Finding the right smoke detector for your home is a key part of fire safety. If your home does not have the proper smoke alarm, your house could sustain severe fire damage and require a major fire cleanup.
In order to choose the right alarm, you need to know the various types. They include:

• Combination
• Photoelectric
• Ionization
• Dual sensor

Combination Alarm

A combination alarm typically includes both smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Because carbon monoxide sensors don’t last as long as smoke ones, combination alarms need to be replaced more frequently. However, they are great for homes that include an attached garage or fuel-burning appliances.

Photoelectric Alarm

A photoelectric alarm is ideal for detecting slow-burning fires, specifically electric fires or those in clothes and bedding. These detectors are less likely to go off accidentally, but they can be more expensive.

Ionization Alarm

An ionization smoke alarm detects small particles from quickly igniting fires such as those caused by grease or paper. Since they are sensitive, you may want to avoid using them near kitchens.

Dual-Sensor Alarm

As its name implies, a dual-sensor alarm uses parts of both ionization and photoelectric smoke detectors. They can be costly, but they also provide great protection for the entire home.
There are several other factors you should consider when choosing a detector. If you don’t want to climb a ladder to test the battery every month, look for a device that can be tested via remote control. You may also want to choose a detector that is easy to clean.

Buying the right detector and regularly checking the batteries will help keep your loved ones safe in the event of a fire. The beeping smoke alarm should alert you to the presence of a fire before it spreads.