A Detailed Look at Ionization Smoke Detectors – Most local authorities in the United States have put laws to increase fire safety, not just in public spaces and buildings but in residential homes. These laws require homeowners to install fire and smoke detectors in the homes and buildings. Installing a smoke detector is a step in the right direction in averting fire tragedies.
A smoke detector is a device programmed to detect smoke as a precursor of fire.
Smoke detectors installed in commercial buildings relay signals to the fire alarm control panel, which is a part of an elaborate fire safety system. Household detectors, however, relay either r visual or audio signals to it or other interlinked detectors activating the fire alarm system in the house. Click here for the Best-Selling Fire Safety Products.
There are two main types of smoke and fire detectors, photoelectric smoke and ionization smoke alarms, used in America and recognized by the National Fire Protection Association. With fire regulations being implemented throughout the country, more than 96% of households and buildings in the country are fitted with a cloud of smoke and a fire detector; of these, 90% have installed ionized smoke and fire detector. This detector has a life span ranging from 8 to 10 years before needing total replacement.
Ionization alarms are designed to detect fires resulting from fuel elements like gas, liquid, wood, plastic cloth, and paper. These fires have a lot of flames with little smoke. These fires are common to households making the ionization smoke detector a major preference for homeowners. Nevertheless, it is essential to take extra precautions by installing more than one type of smoke detector to widen the range of fire that can be detected.
How does the Ionization Smoke detector work?
The ionization smoke detector uses a radioisotope, americium-241, to ionize the air. Smoke changes the composition of air in the house, activating the alarm signal. This type of detector works best at the fire’s flaming stage, unlike optical sensors that sense fire at the burning stage.
The ionization smoke detector has two chambers, one that allows airflow and a reference chamber that restricts particles’ entry. Attached to the detector is a radioactive room that releases alpha particles into both sections ionizing the air molecules. Both chambers have two different types of electrodes with different voltages. The difference in electrical charge of ionized air causing an electrical current flow, these currents should be similarly based on constant variables affecting both chambers. Smoke particles in the open chamber cause a difference in electric current flow in both chambers setting off the alarm.
Advantages of Ionization Smoke Detectors
1. They are usually more sensitive to flaming fires, unlike photoelectric detectors that sense smoldering fires. This gives the homeowner a chance to react quickly to determine the cause of the fire to put it out before it spreads.
2. Ionization smoke detectors are easy to manufacture; hence are cheap and affordable to every household.
3. The ionization smoke detector has a faster relay to the fire alarm system than other smoke and fire detectors.
4. The detectors are easy to install and does not require the expertise of professionals. This also reflects on its maintenance as it does not require maintenance during its life span, maybe a battery change.
5. Like all smoke detectors, it detects fires on time, preventing loss of life and property.
Installing an Ionization Smoke Detector
Before installing the smoke detector, you should map out the key locations for installations, preferably places close to any source of heat and electrical connection.
After deciding on the installation locations, you need to figure out the number of detectors you need. You should install detectors strategically throughout the house, including areas not commonly used, like the attic. It is best to install the detectors in central locations in the room for more efficiency.
It is advisable to mount the detectors about 6-12 inches below the ceiling r on walls for better results.
Place the backing plate where you want to install the detector. Trace the backing plate’s mounting hole locations using a marker or pencil. Dig out the pencil holes, then insert an expansion screw anchor in the hole and tap with a hammer. Adjust the backing plate to align with the screw anchors. Drive the mounting screws tightly through the backing plate’s mounting holes to hold it into place.
With the backing plate, securely install the batteries specified by your detector’s manufacturer. However, most producers recommend AA or 9-volt batteries that are long-lasting and efficient for smoke detectors. The batteries are installed in a fitted compartment at the back of the detector. Fix the detector to the backing plate by twisting or snapping it into place.
Disadvantages of the Ionization Smoke detector
There has been a rising concern about the widespread use of ionization smoke detectors; this is because of its radioactive components. Though the radioactive americium-241 poses little to no strength to the environment and health because of its protective casing. Nevertheless, this has led to the ban of smoke detectors using radioactive components in some parts of the world, including Europe. Some of the demerits of using ionization smoke detectors are,
They do not have a proper disposal channel to prevent damage to the compartment encasing the radioactive component. Homeowners are advised to avoid tampering with the ionization smoke detector to preserve the integrity of the shield holding americium-241
Ionization smoke detectors work best interlinked with other smoke detectors, and they cannot operate as stand-alone systems. This causes the homeowner to incur extra costs installing other systems to boost efficiency.
Fire safety is a major discussion in many households. This aspect does not have a substitute as it involves securing your family’s lives and property. There are no fire alarm systems that can operate independently because of the different types of fires. Fire and smoke detectors are designed differently to detect various fires; for better results, it is best to install an elaborate system.
Seek professional opinion on the best types of detectors to use and the best locations to set them. If you are unable to install them, enlist the services of professionals. Click here for the Best-Selling Fire Safety Products.