How Does a Smoke Detector Work?

A smoke detector can save your life if a fire breaks out in your home. The best plan is to have one or more smoke detectors in your home near where people sleep to ensure everyone wakes up in an emergency. Check the batteries regularly to make sure your smoke detector will do its job.

Different types of smoke alarms exist: photoelectric sensors, ionization sensors and laser technology. Home smoke detectors use photoelectric or ionization sensors. Photoelectric sensors work by detecting a beam of light. When the light is interrupted, the alarm sounds. Ionization sensors contain some radioactive material and are faster to react to a flame. Smoke disrupts the ionization chamber, which sets the alarm off.

A smoke detector works by batteries. Test yours every month by holding a candle six inches under the smoke detector. To test a photoelectric unit, blow out the candle and let the smoke drift to the smoke detector. To test an ionization detector, keep the candle flame burning. If the alarm's battery is working, the alarm should sound within 20 seconds. Fan away the smoke or take the candle flame away and the alarm will soon stop.

Read the user guide when you buy your smoke alarm to make sure you install it properly. You also want to know the best way to maintain and operate your particular model.