"both very effective and unique in detecting smoke"
Currently there are two types of smoke alarms on the market: Ionization and Photoelectric, which are both very effective and unique in detecting smoke.
Photoelectric technology is very sensitive at detecting large particles of smoke that are produced by smoldering fires over time, before bursting into flames. Generally these are good to have in a kitchen and living room area of the home, where most fires occur. I believe that most of us have an ionization close to the kitchen that is always going off whenever cooking a meal and have to constantly remove it from the bracket. This is the reason why having a photoelectric in the kitchen is great because it does not trigger smoke that is produced from cooking, only smoke that is produced in great amounts over time.
Ionization smoke alarms are probably the most sensitive out of the two at detecting small particles of smoke. Any detection of smoke will cause the alarm to go off. I would recommend placing any ionization alarms in a dining room area, hallways, and bedroom areas.
For maximum protection, it is highly recommended to use both photoelectrical and ionization smoke alarms throughout your home. For more information, please check your local state and county codes by using our “Alarm Laws” feature. These helpful links will forward you to more information regarding any new changes.
Tags: ionization, photoelectric
