A smoke detector is a device that detects smoke. The main function of a smoke alarm is to alert the person at risk. A fire strikes when you least expect it, often during the night. It also spreads very rapidly, but the real killer is smoke. If you are asleep when a fire starts and you don’t have a smoke alarm to wake you, your chances of surviving are zero. But with the smoke alarm installed at your place you can save your loved ones.

The Government of countries worldwide regulated law for the compulsory installation of smoke alarms in all places where people sleep. After becoming generally available in the early 1970′s home smoke alarm sales grew rapidly and the price fell, so that every home had at least one. Although smoke alarms provide certain benefits worth considering, you should also consider some drawbacks.

There are two types of home smoke alarms available; the ion type and the photoelectric type. The ion type reacts faster to open flaming fires and is usually the least expensive. The photoelectric type reacts faster to smoldering fires and is less likely to react to cooking. Well, these are not the only fire type. These are many other forms of fire which are not detected by the smoke alarm.

Smoke alarms are available which run on house power but also have a battery in case the main power fails. Both types of alarms need to be tested monthly and batteries should be replaced yearly just as with the battery-only operated type. If left ignored can lead to disaster.

Moreover, the smoke alarm sounds when there is not fire. Steam coming out of the bathrooms often activates the alarm creating the nuisance.

In addition, high humidity or pollen can sometimes cause unwanted reactions. The sensors in the unit detect the dirt and dust and start sounding.

Installing smoke detectors near stoves, toasters or toaster ovens is a quick recipe for false alarms. Unfortunately, these areas are among those most in need of careful monitoring for fire hazards. Heat detectors, which sound alarms based on sharp temperature change, are worthy substitutes in such areas.

Smoke alarm systems also associate additional fees and are just not about the initial cost. But it is better to bear the high cost of the system than to take risk with our precious life and depository as well. But, make sure, you check the batteries timely and replace them once in a year.

Scott Rodgers is a highly knowledgeable writer on electrician works. His commendable exposure on lighting works has helped a lot many Dublin Electricians (Need one?click here!) and Cincinnati Electricians (Need one?click here!).