How do smoke detectors work?

There are two main types of smoke alarms used in homes: ionization detectors and photoelectric detectors. Inside the ionization ones there’s an ionization chamber with two plates and a source of ionizing radiation. read more

There are two main types of smoke detectors: ionization detectors and photoelectric detectors. A smoke alarm uses one or both methods, sometimes plus a heat detector, to warn of a fire. The devices may be powered by a 9-volt battery, lithium battery, or 120-volt house wiring. read more

A smoke detector can be used either in an industrial setting, usually hooked up to a larger fire alarm system, or as an independent device in your residence. There are two types: the photoelectric detector, and the ionization detector. read more