Ionization and Photoelectric
Smoke Detectors ...
The Differences

Ionization Sensor

Ionization smoke alarms are generally more effective at detecting flaming fires which consume combustible materials rapidly and spread quickly. Examples of these types of fires include paper burning in a wastebasket, or a grease fire in the kitchen.


Photoelectric Sensor

Photoelectric smoke alarms are generally more effective at detecting smoldering fires which smolder for hours before bursting into flame. Examples of these types of fires include cigarettes burning in couches or bedding.