Ionisation Detector: These are the cheapest alarm type. They are very sensitive to small particles of smoke produced from fast flaming fires and will detect this type of fire before the smoke becomes too thick. They are slightly less sensitive to slow burning and smouldering fires that give off larger quantities of smoke before flaming occurs. They are also known to be over sensitive when placed near kitchens i.e. burning toast or drying paint and glue.
Optical Detector: These are more expensive to purchase, but more effective at detecting larger particles of smoke by slow-burning fires. They are slightly less sensitive to fast flaming fires. Optical alarms can be installed near, but not in kitchens, as they are less likely than ionisation alarms to go off when, for example when cooking is burned.
Heat Detectors: They detect the increase in temperature from a fire and are insensitive to the smoke element of a fire. Therefore, they can be installed in kitchen areas. They only cover a relatively small area of the room, so there is the possibility that more than one heat alarm is warranted in a larger kitchen.
Mains powered interlinked alarms have to be fitted in all new homes to comply with regulations and this also includes after a major refurbishment has taken place. We recommend mains powered alarms in every property. The installation of a mains powered alarm needs to be carried out by a qualified electrician.
If your home has more than one floor then a smoke alarm should be fitted on each level of the dwelling and a heat alarm(s) in the kitchen.
Do not fit an alarm in the bathroom due to the steamy environment that may trigger the alarm.
Firstly, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions – smoke alarms need very little maintenance. Just a few minutes of your time on a regular basis will ensure that your alarm is working. You need to:
Take the time to plan an escape route from your home in advance and talk about it with your family.
You can refer to our Children’s section where we have included a project to be undertaken for a family escape plan in the event of fire.
Always check the battery regularly, replacing it when necessary, and never remove it for other purposes.
Smoke alarms provide you with a first line of defence. The following fire safety products can offer additional protection:
Evidence of a smoke alarm lifespan is scarce and not conclusive. As with all electronic items, there will be failures in the units when they are manufactured and failures during their lifetime due to individual component errors. Also, as they get older more issues are likely to occur. Increased sensitivity is an issue specifically known to smoke detectors.
Despite the lack of research information, it is appropriate to replace smoke alarms after ten years (this is in line with manufacturers advice), unless individual alarm testing suggests earlier replacement.
At R S Electrical Services we advise to never leave these safety checks to memory but to add them to your routine and simply enter your reminder on the calendar for peace of mind and give it the valid attention it deserves.
R.S. Electrical Services
Red Lion Yard
Odd Down
Bath
Somerset
BA2 2PP
VAT no: 790990875
NICEIC Enrolment no: 043143
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