Selecting The Right Smoke Detector

change your smoke detector

Even the smallest of house fires can fill your home with dangerous smoke in a few minutes. It is important that you choose the right smoke detectors for your home, put them in them correctly, and test them at regular intervals.

There are two types of residential smoke detectors available: photoelectric and ionization. In a photoelectric detector a beam of light is aimed into a chamber containing a photocell. Smoke entering the chamber will scatter the light, enabling some of it to reach the photocell and cause an alarm. A smoldering fire will set off a photoelectric detector quicker than a flaming fire.

The ionization detector has a small amount of a radioactive element that ionizes the air which gives of a tiny electrical charge. When smoke enters this detector, the current is lowered and sets off the alarm.

Which type of detector works best? Each type has its advantages and disadvantages. Most photoelectric units are powered by your homes electrical system and will not protect you during a power outage. Ionization models run on house current with a battery back up, but tend to be more susceptible to false alarms. The best of both worlds is to use ionization and photoelectric in different areas of your home.

A general rule is to have a minimum of one smoke detector for every level of your home. You should also keep these guidelines in mind:

Do not install smoke detectors close to the kitchen, furnace, garage, or just outside a bathroom door. Try not to install a smoke detector in an area where there may not be enough circulation, i.e. corners. Attach each detector to the ceiling, or high on a wall about 8 to 10 inches below ceiling level.

Once your detectors are installed, test each of them monthly. Most have a test button that makes this very easy. If you don't see a test button, simply light a candle, blow out the flame, and hold the smoking wick about 6 inches below the detector. The smoke should set off the alarm.

Batteries should be replaced annually. An easy to remember dates such as a birthday or the beginning of daylight savings time makes it simple to remember. When you are performing this you can also clean the inside and vent openings of the detector which will help the reliability.

For more information about First Alert smoke detectors