Why does my photoelectric smoke alarm keep going off?
The most likely reason smoke detectors go off unexpectedly is that people aren’t changing the batteries in them often enough. In most sensors you might think of, the strength of the signal goes up when they detect what they’re supposed to. Common causes of smoke detector false positives around the house.
Do photoelectric smoke detectors need to be replaced?
Regardless of the level of protection your home or business has from ionization detectors, photoelectric, or some combination of the technologies, it is essential to replace the units at least every ten years, if not before, and test them regularly.
What does photoelectric mean on a smoke alarm?
The second type of smoke detector is photoelectric, which uses a light beam to help detect the presence of smoke. According to NFPA, these alarm types are more effective at sounding when a fire originates from a smoldering source, like a lit cigarette that falls into a couch cushion.
Why did my smoke alarm go off in the middle of the night for no reason?
The most likely reason smoke detectors go off unexpectedly is that people aren’t changing the batteries in them often enough. In most sensors you might think of, the strength of the signal goes up when they detect what they’re supposed to.
Do First Alert smoke detectors expire?
Look at the back of the alarm for the date of manufacture. Smoke alarms should be replaced 10 years from the date of manufacture. Combo smoke/CO alarms should be replaced after 5-7 years (depending on the model). Put the alarm back on the ceiling or wall if it is less than 10 years old.
What triggers a photoelectric smoke alarm?
Photoelectric smoke alarms Photoelectric alarms work using a photoelectric sensor and a light source. As smoke enters the chamber and crosses the path of the light beam, light is scattered by the smoke particles, aiming it toward the sensor, which in turn triggers the alarm.
How can I tell if my smoke alarm is photoelectric?
This type of smoke alarm DOES look like your standard smoke alarm, however, you can tell it is a photoelectric smoke alarm if it DOES NOT have a radiation symbol on it. If your smoke alarm carries a radiation symbol it is an ionisation style and should be replaced as soon as possible.