What Makes Ionisation Smoke Alarms Different From Photoelectric Smoke Alarms?
When it comes to smoke alarms, there are two main types available to you: ionisation smoke alarms and photoelectric smoke alarms. However if you are not well informed about smoke alarms, you probably don’t understand the differences between these two types and what would be the better choice for you.
As experts in photoelectric smoke alarms in Queensland, our team at Pacific Smoke Alarms are exceptionally knowledgeable when it comes to this subject.
Ionisation Smoke Alarms
Ionisation smoke alarms consist of two electric plates within a chamber, and these two plates ionise the air between them. Through an electrical circuitry system, the ionisation current can be measured, and in the case of combustion, the electrical circuitry system will sense changes in the chamber and the alarm will go off.
Photoelectric Smoke Alarms
When the smoke rises in the air, it changes the intensity of light, and photoelectric smoke alarms work by using this principle. These types of smoke alarms use a photosensitive element and an LED light beam that triggers the alarm when smoke is detected in the air.
The Main Differences Between Ionisation Smoke Alarms & Photoelectric Smoke Alarms
- When it comes to smouldering fires, photoelectric smoke alarms can trigger an alarm 15 minutes before an ionisation smoke alarm typically would.
- Ionisation alarms are more likely to trigger ‘false alarms’.
- In situations of fast flame fires, ionisation alarms generally do not provide enough egress time.
Overall, most experts would recommend photoelectric smoke alarms over ionisation smoke alarms as the technology used is generally more reliable. It is also important to purchase new modern smoke alarms and ensure that professionals install them if you want to rest assured that your smoke alarm system works effectively.
In Queensland, the government outlines that you should be using photoelectric smoke detectors, and ionisation smoke alarms should not be used.
Are you looking to install photoelectric smoke alarms in your home or offices in Queensland? Give the team of smoke alarm professionals at Pacific Smoke Alarms a call today on 1300 355 483 for more information on our services.