The main types of smoke detectors are ionization (fast on flaming fires, slower on smoldering), photoelectric (fast on smoldering fires, slower on flaming), dual-sensor (combines both), and combination smoke/CO detectors that protect against carbon monoxide too. Modern building codes generally require dual-sensor or photoelectric in living areas.
Smoke detector types
- Ionization — Fast on flaming fires
- Photoelectric — Fast on smoldering fires
- Dual-sensor — Catches both, recommended
- Smoke + CO combo — Required in many jurisdictions
- Hardwired interconnected — All units alarm together
- Smart smoke/CO — Phone alerts
We install code-compliant interconnected units through our smart home and safety service.
