How can you tell the difference between a heat detector and smoke detector?
Smoke detectors and heat detectors are both used to detect fires. The difference between smoke detectors and heat detectors is how they activate. Smoke detectors activate when they detect smoke, and heat detectors activate when they detect high temperatures or temperatures that are rising unusually fast.
How does a smoke detector look like?
Smoke detectors are usually housed in plastic enclosures, typically shaped like a disk about 150 millimetres (6 in) in diameter and 25 millimetres (1 in) thick, but shape and size vary. Smoke can be detected either optically (photoelectric) or by physical process (ionization).
Can you replace a smoke detector with a heat detector?
In most cases, we recommend using a smoke detector over a heat detector. This is because a smoke detector will typically detect a fire more quickly than a heat detector. But in some areas, a smoke detector may not be appropriate. For that reason, heat detectors are often used in these areas.
At what temperature does a heat detector activation?
around 135 degrees
Typically, the preset temperature that triggers the alarm is around 135 degrees. High temperatures are a good indicator of fire (unless you have your heater set to 135 degrees). Both the rate-of-rise detectors and the fixed temperature detectors are great for sensing fires.
Where do you put a smoke and heat detector?
SMOKE AND HEAT ALARM POSITIONING Smoke Alarms should be fitted in all rooms especially principal habitable rooms where the temperature is normally between 4°C (40°F) and 38°C (100°F). Smoke alarms can be fitted in hallway, landing, living room(s), bedroom, airing/meter cupboards.
What are the two types of smoke detectors?
There are two types of smoke alarms in general use for home smoke alarms: photoelectric and ionization. These smoke alarms sense the presence of smoke differently. The type of smoke produced by a fire depends on the type of fire. Flaming fires produce a different type of smoke than smoldering fires.
Do you need heat alarm in kitchen?
In addition, the Building Regulations also require a heat alarm to be installed in any kitchen areas where the kitchen is not separated from the circulation space or stairway by a door. Heat alarms are recommended for placing directly in kitchens and in unconverted loft space.
What are the two types of heat detectors?
There are two common types of heat detectors—fixed temperature and rate of rise. Both rely on the heat of a fire incident to activate the signal device.
Where should I place my heat detector?
Placing of smoke alarms and heat alarms
- Alarms should be sited on the ceiling, as centrally as possible within the room/area they are installed.
- Site 300mm away from walls and light fittings – this is to ensure that they are away from any ‘dead air’ spaces that occur in corners and spaces where the airflow may be blocked.
Can dust activate a heat detector?
Heat detectors have been around for decades and are commonly found in restaurants, auditoriums, or industrial environments. This is because in these environments, deceptive phenomena such as cooking fumes, dry ice, or dust can cause smoke detectors to generate false alarms.
Should smoke detectors be on wall or ceiling?
Smoke alarms should be mounted in or near bedrooms and living areas, either on the ceiling or the wall. Ceiling mounting it is typically preferred as it allows the smoke alarm to be placed more centrally in the room.