Smoke detectors that are working can dramatically reduce the chance of dying in a home fire. AMRE Supply explains how these small devices function. The most well-known types of home smoke detectors is called photoelectric detectors. The chamber emits a laser beam. It stops the beam if smoke is present within the chamber. This triggers the alarm. They’re helpful in fire systems because they can identify slow-burning or smoldering flames. Another popular fire detector is called an ionization detector. Two plates in the chamber are electrically activated in order to cause an ongoing flow of ions in the chambers. The one plate is left open, so smoke is able to enter. Also known as a reference chamber. Smoke is not allowed to enter. The alarm is triggered when there’s a significant difference in the flow of ions from the chamber open to that of the reference chamber. It is activated when smoke is introduced into the chamber. It interrupts the flow of electrons in the chamber and causes it to go off. They’re best at finding flames burning quickly, but they are also activated through cooking or by dust. Smoke detectors with dual sensors can be purchased that use the use of ionization sensors and photoelectric technologies. jx9lfmxp4q.