Type of Smoke Detector

• There are two types of smoke detectors. Ionization smoke detectors use a small amount of radioactive material to ionize the air between plates. Sensors detect changes to the air between these plates. Ionization detectors usually detect fires that are primarily flame based and produce less smoke. Photoelectric smoke detectors use an optical sensor to detect smoke. Photoelectric sensors are better at detecting smoldering fires and fires with more smoke. Because an equal number of house fires are caused by smoldering fires and fires with more flame, experts recommend having both kinds of detectors in your home.
  
  

Smoke Detector Placement

• Smoke detectors should be installed on every level of the home, including the basement. In addition, smoke detectors should be placed outside of every sleeping area. If possible, the smoke detectors should be interconnected. This is especially important in multilevel homes with basements. If the sleeping areas are on the second floor and a fire breaks out in the basement, if the detectors aren't interconnected, people sleeping on the second floor may not hear the alarm in the basement unless the detectors are interconnected.
  
  

Smoke Detector Maintenance

• Do not paint smoke alarms. Paint could interfere with the flow of air through the detector. Replace the batteries and any user-replaceable light bulbs according to the manufacturer's recommendation. Most manufacturers recommend somewhere between six months to a year. If you are unsure, replace the battery and bulb every six months. Vacuum the smoke detector frequently, especially if you have pets. It is also important to test the smoke detector regularly by pressing the detector's "test" button.