What is the difference between fire and smoke alarms

Understanding why these two devices are not always interchangeable. Who Needs What Smoke detectors are generally seen in smaller homes while fire alarms are used in larger buildings.

Additional Benefits People with fire alarms typically have more options than those with smoke detectors, so this is also something to keep in mind: a fire alarm can do a lot more than just make noise. Lauren Slade is a Dallas-based writer and editor. Schedule a Call Availability Call Date. Call time All times are in CST.

First Name. Last Name. However, it's easy to enjoy cooking more safely with a little research, planning and awareness. Taking the time to make — and practice — a home escape plan can save your life. Here's what you need to know. The home. Smoke alarms and heat alarms. The warning an appropriate fire detection system provides can save your life.

But what's right for you and your home? Smoke alarms and heat alarms Getting the right fire detection system Did you know that smoke alarms alone aren't enough?

Check your home's safe using our simple tool It only takes a few minutes to check your home and get tailored advice for your family. Why are smoke alarms so vital? The early warning that saves lives Most fires at home start accidentally — and the effects can be devastating.

Smoke alarm or heat alarm — what's the difference? Smoke and fire alarm must-knows Don't just fit a smoke alarm in your hall and landing — also fit them in any room where a fire can start. For example, any room where you smoke or leave appliances plugged in. Smoke alarms are not suitable for kitchens but heat alarms are. Fitting a heat alarm in your kitchen will give you warning of an increase in temperature caused by a fire but will not be set off by cooking fumes.

Some battery or mains alarms can be interlinked, so that when one alarm detects a fire they all go off together, giving you warning wherever you are in your home. This is particularly important where a person has any issues that may prevent or delay their escape to ensure they are alerted to a fire as soon as possible. If you choose to have a mains-powered alarm, make sure it's installed by a qualified electrician.

It's also possible to fit extra automatic 'fire suppression' systems at home — that's things like sprinklers. These are a great idea if there's anything that might prevent you escaping quickly. How to choose a smoke alarm Setting up the right fire alarm system for you A couple of hours — and not much money — is all you need to get an appropriate fire detection system in place. Fire alarm systems do run on a power source and thus need to be maintained.

They need to be tested every single month and have to be tested for their batteries and their response times to some changes in the environment. Your business smoke alarm and every other appliance connected with it have to be in top shape. If it is not properly maintained, you might have to replace it. They are able to provide responses instead of simply sensing the smoke.

Smoke detectors and fire alarm systems are quite different with the former simply acting as a sensor while the latter provides responses. For a business smoke alarm, you need a fire alarm system and also need to maintain it. We use necessary cookies to make this site work, we also use optional analytics cookies to enhance user experience - but these are disabled by default See our Cookie Policy. Smoke Detector vs. Jul 27, What is a Fire Alarm System?

What is the Difference Between the Two?