Problems with Ionization Smoke Detectors at Higher Elevations

Ionization Smoke Detectors

• The smoke detector is intended to pick up any trace of a fire inside of a building; in ionization smoke detectors, this includes the detection of small smoke particles from .01 to .3 microns. According to the National Fire Protection Association, ionization detectors are constructed with two electrically charged metal plates a short distance apart. A small amount of radiation situated between the two plates ionizes the air and allows for a current to freely flow between the two plates. When smoke enters the detector chamber, the smoke particles interrupt the ionization process, breaking the electric current and setting off the alarm.

  Ionization smoke detectors are ideal for detecting flaming fires, not smoldering fires. They are ideal for placement near kitchens, where flare-ups can occur often, or in other places where plastics or rubber produce black smoke.

Common Problems

• Since ionization detectors function by detecting any amount of smoke in the air, detectors can sound if there is any smoke in the home. Cigarette smoke, burning incense, extinguished candles or smoke from cooking can all cause ionization smoke detectors to sound. If you are at a higher elevation and these problems persist, consider moving the detector to a position where it is less susceptible to everyday smoke.

  Some detectors often malfunction as a result of a low battery. If the alarm is frequently beeping at a high altitude, check the battery and try replacing it with a new battery.

High Elevation Problems

• Because of the mechanism placed in an ionization smoke detector, it is easy for smoke detectors to malfunction at high temperatures: the composite of the air falsely triggers the alarm, causing frequent beeping from the unit. Similar problems occur in high-humidity areas.

  To counter the effects at high elevations, use photoelectric smoke detectors in your home. Also, consider placing both ionization and photoelectric detectors on a multicriteria detector. Once the detectors are linked, the signals are cross-referenced with each other and false alarms are processed out. This can fix common problems and provide help for those frustrated with frequent ionization smoke detector problems.