Ionizationsmoke detectors monitor the level of ions (electrically charged particles) in the air. They are generally sensitive to small smoke particles, which are produced by flaming fires. If present, these particles conduct a current within the alarm's chamber, activating the device.
Photoelectric smoke detectors use beams of light and sensors to detect the presence of larger smoke particles (produced by smoldering fires), which interrupt the light beams and trigger the alarm.
Dual Sensor smoke detectors provide both photoelectric and ionization detection methods for added protection.
