Choosing the Right Smoke Detector for Your Home

8/27/2022 (Permalink)

A smoke alarm may be small, but it is mighty when it comes to fire safety and prevention.

Selecting the Best Smoke Detector for Your Home

With so many smoke alarm options and brands on the market today, how do you choose the best alarms for your DeBary, FL, home? Below, you will learn about the different types of alarms available, the differences in power sources, and the various price ranges and add-on features.

What Type of Smoke Alarm?

Regardless of home size or layout, place alarms in each bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on each floor. There are two types of alarms available:

Photoelectric sensors use a light beam to detect reflected light off particles inside the chamber. These sensors respond best to smoldering fires.
Ionization sensors measure a disruption in the electric current or ion flow inside the chamber. These sensors respond best to flaming fires. 

You never know which type of fire will break out, so the recommendation is you install a combination of photoelectric and ionization alarms. You can also buy dual-sensor alarms for the same purpose.

What Power Source?

Alarm systems are either hard-wired or battery-powered. Hard-wired alarms are tied into the home’s electricity, have backup batteries in case of power outages, and typically require professional installation. Battery-powered alarms use standard batteries that need replacing once or twice a year, and they can be self-installed. No matter the power source, make sure you buy models that can be interconnected throughout the house. Ensure alarms are placed high on walls or ceilings, away from HVAC and fans, and at least 10 feet from cooking sources to limit interference.

What Price and Features?

A basic battery-powered single-sensor smoke detector can cost as little as $10. Added features or installation requirements can increase costs by more than $100. Some features to consider are voice alert, strobe light functions for the hearing impaired, and advanced systems that connect to your security system. Advanced systems will notify your associated app and the local fire department immediately, which can save time and money on home restoration services.

A smoke alarm may be small, but it is mighty when it comes to fire safety and prevention. Several options are available depending on your needs, preferences, and finances.