The inner workings of a smoke detector include three main parts: the sensing chamber, a loud horn, and a battery (or house voltage power source). A test button lets you know if the battery, sensor and alarm are working properly. Batteries should be replaced yearly, on a regular schedule.

Standard smoke detectors work by ionization; some use a photoelectric cell. With ionization, a tiny amount of radioactive material conducts electricity through the air between two electrodes. When smoke upsets the current, the alarm sounds. Photoelectric models use a small beam of light. Smoke causes the light to disperse and, when it does, the alarm begins to bleat its warning.

More about smoke detectors:

• Smoke Detectors Buying Guide
• How Many Smoke Alarms Do I Need?
• Reliable Smoke Detector Manufacturers
• Smoke & Fire Alarm Features
• Smoke Detector Types
• How to Install a Smoke Detector
• Where to Place Smoke & Fire Alarms
• Smoke & Fire Alarm Sounds & Signals
• Using Smoke Detectors

What To Do In the Event of a Fire

Get a Pre-Screened Fire Prevention and Protection Contractor

Copyright. All rights reserved.