Listing the Ideal Types of Fire Alarms

Fire alarms are a small but very useful devices when it comes to protecting your home and business. They are specifically designed to not only detect, but also warn you about any potential dangers of a fire. For this reason, installing a high-quality fire alarm system is extremely important – it saves lives and reduces property damage and eventual loss.

Fire alarms should be placed on the ceiling in order to efficiently detect rising smoke. Keep them away from doors, windows, or ducts since drafts can prevent alarms from working properly. Most models also come with an external test button which should be used at least once a month to check the battery of the alarm. Furthermore, fire alarms should be cleaned regularly since dust particles oftentimes block the sensor. Many different types are available with a wide range of features and benefits. The following are some of the most popular models used nowadays.

Photoelectric alarms

These are manufactured to quickly detect smouldering and smoky fires. A photo cell and special light are the key components of this type of alarms and as soon as fire particles appear, the light reacts by scattering and hitting the photo cell and activating the alarm immediately. This model requires regular maintenance and cleaning because false alarms can be triggered when dust particles or insects enter the chamber.

Ionization alarms

Ionization fire alarms have a very small amount of radioactive material that ionizes the air inside the alarm and creates an electric current. Fire particles disrupt the current and activate the alarm. This type is specifically designed for detecting small smoke particles that are created during fast-staring fires.

Aspirating alarms

This type of fire alarm is extremely sensitive and quickly detects smoke particles. It operates with a central unit for detection which contains a network of little, unobtrusive pipes that continually check the air. A special filter clears the air from dust and other debris particles preventing false detection.

Dual-sensor alarms

The dual-sensor alarm contains both ionization and photoelectric sensors. Its double system is highly efficient since it has the ability to detect both large and small fire particles. As a more expensive model dual-sensor alarms are most commonly used in commercial areas.

Each of these fire alarms has its own individual benefits and special uses. For example, the photoelectric type works best when installed near the kitchen. However, for maximum protection fire alarms should be installed in every corner of the house meaning that each room should have one. It is important to place them near bedrooms, as well as on the attic and in the basement.