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What is the difference between an Ionization alarm and a photoelectric alarm?

April 26, 2017alarm ionization photoelectric

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What is the difference between an Ionization alarm and a photoelectric alarm?

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In general ionisation alarms are quicker at detecting fast flaming fires that give off little smoke, where as photoelectric (optical) alarms are quicker at detecting slow smouldering fires.

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Ionization smoke alarms contain material that ionizes the air, making an electrical path. When products of combustion enter the device, the molecules attach themselves to the ions. The change in electric current flow triggers the alarm. Photoelectric alarms contain a light source and photocell, which is activated by light. Light from the bulb reflects off the smoke particles and is directed towards the photocell. The photocell is then activated to trigger the alarm. When properly installed and maintained both types of alarms will save lives.