Re: Attic Smoke Detectors Question

[Nomen Nescio <nobody@xxxxxxxxx>]

Norm Mugford said:

>I've never had a problem with 135 degree heats in attics,
>in Connecticut or here in Florida.
>
>What experiences have you had that causes you to
>recommend a 194 or 200 degree heat?


Norm, you should not use 135 degree heat detectors in locations where
ceiling temperature exceeds 100 degrees.  See the following link for proof
(scroll down to "Specifications"):

http://www.chemetronics.com/500.shtml

I think we can all agree that attics sometimes exceed 100 degrees.  And
yes, I have seen 135 degree rate of rise heads pop.  It's not the rate of
rise portion that goes, it's the fixed temperature sensor that melts.

In almost all fires, the rate of rise detection system will trip long
before the fixed temperature is reached.  The only exception is a fire
where the increase in temperature is very gradual.  The rate of rise sensor
is exactly the same in a 136 degree detector as in a 190 degree detector,
meaning that in almost all cases, both units will perform identically.  So
there is little to lose by using a 190 degree detector, and much
reliability to be gained.

- badenov