What is a Heat Detector?

A heat detector is a property-safety sensor that responds to very high temperatures that are only present during fires. Standalone heat detectors are often used in room where smoke detectors may cause false alarms. Heat sensors usually take longer to respond to a fire than smoke detectors.

A heat detector works by sensing unusually high temperatures and/or sudden increases in temperature. A heat detector that responds to unusually high temperatures is called a fixed heat detector. For example, a fixed heat detector might activate upon sensing a temperature of 135 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. A heat detector that responds to sudden increases in temperature is called a rate-of-rise heat detector. For example, a rate-of-rise heat detector might activate upon sensing a temperature increase of 15 degrees Fahrenheit or higher in a single minute. Some heat detectors may offer both fixed temperature sensing and rate of rise temperature detection.

The thing to remember is that heat detectors do not usually detect fires as quickly as smoke detectors. For that reason, smoke detectors are used in most locations. But you might still use heat detectors in locations where smoke detectors may cause false alarms. Please note that there are also combination sensors that offer both smoke detection and heat detection. These combination devices are often recommended, as having multiple detection methods for fire-safety is never a bad idea. The only reason to use standalone heat detectors is for locations where a smoke detector may result in false alarms.

Smoke detectors may be triggered in environments that feature heavy dust, moisture, or smoke from everyday activity. In those locations, you should strongly consider using standalone heat detectors. That way, you will still have some method for fire detection, and you won't have to worry about false alarms. Garages and attics are good for heat detectors, since the dusty environment might trigger a smoke detector. Bathrooms are good for heat detectors because heavy moisture might cause issues for smoke detectors. You might also consider installing heat detectors in kitchens or rooms where people smoke cigarettes, as the smoke from regular activity might set off a smoke detector.