There are different types of detectors which may form part of your fire protection system, dependent on its design and the requirements of your premises. Your detectors will connect to and communicate with your electrical fire protection system.

There are five main types of detectors:

• smoke detectors
• heat detectors
• carbon monoxide detectors
• flame detectors
• combined multi-sensor detectors (which may be a combination of two or more of the above in a single unit

Smoke detectors

Smoke detectors identify smoke and provide an early warning of fire. They will be linked to your alarm system and will emit an alarm if smoke is detected. There are three types of smoke detectors: ionisation, optical, and dual sensor which is a combination of both. The competent person installing your alarm system will advise on the most appropriate type for your premises.

Heat detectors

As fires develop they emit heat, which can be detected and the alarm given. They can be especially useful in a smoky or dusty area. A heat detector will identify a rise in temperature rather than a change in the atmosphere and should form part of your fire protection system.

Carbon monoxide detectors

Carbon monoxide is an invisible toxic gas that is produced by fires when ventilation is poor and fires smoulder rather than burn rapidly. A carbon monoxide detector senses the presence of carbon monoxide and sounds a warning alarm. 

Flame detectors

Flame detectors use ultra violet or infrared to detect flame. If you have flammable liquids on your premises such as paint thinners or alcohol which could act as a main source of fire and flame when they burn, a flame detector will alert you. 

Combined multi-sensor detectors

Multi sensor detectors combine different types of sensors in one unit. Because a multi sensor may compare the information it receives from its multiple sensors, it may be useful in reducing false alarms.