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02/01/2025 • by Alice P
It's important to know there are many types of smoke alarms, and not all devices work the same way. Some may be better suited to specific spaces than others. Although the UK government advise all homes should contain a smoke alarm, it can be confusing when purchasing as there are various different types of smoke alarms available to buy. Many of these alarms all look the same on the outside, however, how they work and detect smoke varies.
Smoke alarms work by monitoring areas and detecting levels of smoke. If there is a shift in smoke levels, the alarm will trigger. The triggered smoke alarm will start chirping, alerting others to the danger.
A multi-sensor smoke alarm combines multiple sensors to provide comprehensive fire detection. There are multi-sensor smoke alarms on that market that detect both smoke and heat, smoke and carbon monoxide, or all three.
A multi-sensor alarm uses a combined heat and optical smoke detection system to identify fires. With dual features, they can overcome challenges that standalone smoke alarms or single heat detectors might face. Multi-sensor alarms are recommended for installation in bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms, landings, and hallways.
Fires can burn in different ways, ranging from smouldering, slow-burning flames to fast-igniting fires. A smoke detector needs to adapt to these challenges. Most smoke detectors are better suited to detecting one type of fire, so they may struggle to respond accurately if the fire doesn't match their strengths.
Cost-effective: Requires fewer units. Multi-sensor alarms combine fire detection features (smoke, heat, carbon monoxide), increasing protection while reducing the need for additional devices.
Reduces false alarms: Smoke alarms are often falsely triggered by heat from kitchens. Multi-sensor alarms use combined heat and smoke detection technology, reducing this risk. Read more on kitchen fire safety.
More expensive: Multi-sensor alarms typically cost more than other types. However, their ability to reduce false alarms, respond quickly, and provide increased accuracy can save money in the long term.
An optical smoke alarm, sometimes referred to as a photoelectric alarm, uses an infrared light system to detect large, slow-moving particles created by smouldering fires.
Optical smoke alarms detect smoke by using a light beam. When smoke particles block the light, the alarm is triggered. The more the light is obscured, the quicker the alarm will activate.
Quick response to slow-burning, smouldering fires: The light detection system can accurately identify the presence of smoke particles.
Can be installed near kitchens: While it’s important to install a heat alarm directly in a kitchen, optical smoke alarms work effectively near kitchen areas.
Slower response to fast-flaming fires: Optical smoke alarms struggle to respond quickly to fast-burning fires, making them less effective in such scenarios.
False alarms from steam or dust: Be cautious about placement, as steam, dust, and high humidity levels can trigger false alarms. Avoid placing these alarms in or too close to bathrooms. Read more on smoke alarm placement.
An ionisation smoke alarm is designed to react quickly to fast-flaming fires. These devices are best at detecting tiny smoke particles. While effective and reliable, they are prone to false alarms caused by kitchens. They are well-suited for bedrooms and landings.
Ionisation smoke alarms ionise the air between two chambers. The device contains positively and negatively charged chambers that create a current. When smoke particles enter the chamber, they disrupt the current flow, which triggers the alarm.
Highly sensitive to smaller particles: These alarms are effective at detecting fast-flaming fires, alerting others as soon as they are triggered.
Less effective for slow-burning fires: Smouldering fires are less likely to trigger these alarms, reducing their reliability. Additional devices may be needed for such fires, increasing costs.
Higher likelihood of false alarms: Particularly in kitchen environments.
Slowly being discontinued: Ionisation smoke alarms are slowly being phased out of production by the UK Government due to the radioactive material present in these types of alarms.
Ionisation alarms are gradually being phased out due to certain disadvantages. While they are effective for detecting fast-moving fires, they pose environmental risks due to their slightly radioactive sensors. Disposal of these devices must be handled carefully, as improper disposal can harm the environment. Additionally, these devices are more difficult to transport because of the radioactive materials.
The most popular type of smoke alarm to use in a home setting is an optical smoke alarm. These are most suited to living areas such as bedrooms, hallways, living rooms and home offices. However, an optical smoke alarm isn’t suited to steamy or smoky environments. The best types of alarm for a bathroom or kitchen are heat alarms. By installing smoke and heat alarms in your home and maintaining them regularly, you will be alerted early if a fire breaks out.
30/05/2024 • by Lynsey B