Best Type Of Smoke Detector

Which type of smoke detector is LEAST sensitive to shower steam?

Hey– We have this fire alarm that keeps going off because of steam. I’m not sure the brand but it looks outdated. It’s 120 VAC and I am looking to replace it with one that won’t go off all the time. Which type of sensing technology is the best for my requirements… Photoelectric or Ionization? I used to live in another town home and the fire alarm was located even closer to the bathroom and steam never set it off… but I don’t know what kind it was.
-Chris

Chris – great question. Both are, sadly. Both are measuring for airborne particulate, and even though they are using different technologies to do so, the end result is the same. The ionization detectors are usually a little less expensive. We only use the photo-electric type at our company, and just tell folks NOT to place the sensor in (or right outside) the bathroom. If you need some kind of fire detection in that space, just use a heat sensor. You can get fixed heat sensors (usually 135 degrees), or “rate of rise” that are triggered by a climb of over 15 degrees in a minute. We sell a heat sensor that combines both those technologies (fixed AND rate of rise) for the best of both worlds.We also sell a smoke sensor that includes heat sensors. Our company specializes in cellular monitoring (safer) and interactive services (smarter).

www.frontpointsecurity.com

By the way, here is a blog posting all about monitored fire alarm – and why every house should have at least one.

http://blog.frontpointsecurity.com/2010/08/05/where-there%E2%80%99s-smoke-are-you-protected/

Hope that helps, and good luck!

Which Smoke Detectors Work Best?

Kidde FA110 Multi Purpose Fire Extinguisher 1A10BC $17.99 466142 – MULTI-PURP.EXTINGUISHR.1A10BC – For every home or office Disposable Ready to fight small fires before they spread, strap bracket, gauge for easy pressure check …

Kidde KN-COSM-B Battery-Operated Combination Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Alarm with Talking Alarm $64.97 The Kidde KN-COSM-B Battery-Operated Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Alarm combines two important safety devices into a single unit. This alarm includes a voice warning system that announces “Fire, Carbon Monoxide, Low Battery, or Smart Hush Activation.” The voice alarm eliminates any confusion and clearly warns you and your family of a smoke or carbon monoxide danger, or if your battery is in need of r…

First Alert CO600 Plug In Carbon Monoxide Alarm $16.98 Carbon monoxide (CO) is the leading cause of accidental poisoning deaths in America, yet many people don’t know they are suffering from CO poisoning until its too late. Since symptoms of CO poisoning are like the flu, you might not even know you’re in danger at first. That’s why a carbon monoxide alarm is an excellent way to protect your family. It can detect the CO you can’t see, smell or taste i…

OTC 6521 Leak Tamer Plus EVAP Smoke Diagnostic Machine $1,514.95 OTC Leak Tamer Plus Evap OTC6521 Easy, effective, versatile tool to help technicians diagnose EVAP trouble codes on domestic and import cars and light trucks. Uses patented UltraTraceUV technology – the only OEM-approved dye available. Works with nitrogen or shop air to meet all OEM test requirements. Uses existing OTC LeakTamer accessories. Uses OEM-Approved Technology This technology wa…

Kodak Kehdc2 Heavy-Duty Batteries (C Type, 2Pk) $1.36 Kodak KEHDC2 Heavy Duty Alkaline General Purpose Battery KEHDC2 General Purpose Batteries…