A rate-of-rise heat detector is a type of fire alarm that detects changes in temperature. Unlike smoke detectors, which detect smoke particles in the air, heat detectors are designed to detect increases in temperature that could indicate a fire.
A rate-of-rise heat detector works by measuring the rate at which the temperature in a room is increasing. If the temperature rises rapidly, the heat detector will trigger an alarm, indicating the presence of a fire. This type of heat detector is particularly useful in areas where smoke detectors may not be effective, such as in garages or kitchens where smoke from cooking or exhaust fumes can trigger false alarms.
Rate-of-rise heat detectors are also useful in detecting fires in areas where smoke detectors may not be installed, such as in attics or crawl spaces. They can also be used in conjunction with smoke detectors to provide additional protection against fires.
There are two types of rate-of-rise heat detectors: fixed temperature and combination. Fixed temperature heat detectors are set to trigger an alarm when the temperature in a room reaches a specific threshold. Combination heat detectors, on the other hand, combine both fixed temperature and rate-of-rise detection capabilities, providing an added layer of protection against fires.
It's important to note that rate-of-rise heat detectors are not a substitute for smoke detectors. Smoke detectors are still the most effective way to detect fires in most situations. However, rate-of-rise heat detectors can be a valuable addition to a home or business's fire detection system, providing an extra layer of protection against fires.
In summary, a rate-of-rise heat detector is a type of fire alarm that detects changes in temperature and is particularly useful in areas where smoke detectors may not be effective. By measuring the rate at which the temperature in a room is increasing, rate-of-rise heat detectors can provide early warning of a fire, helping to protect lives and property.