I'm currently setting up my woodshop and need advice on fire alarms that won't go off randomly due to dust. I've tried several detectors, but they keep triggering unexpectedly, probably because of all the dust in the air. Since my shop is a detached building, I'm more interested in safeguarding my equipment and the structure than anything else. Have any of you found a reliable fire alarm that works well in a dusty environment?
5 Answers
Have you considered heat detectors? They tend to trigger less often and might be ideal for dusty setups.
I had similar issues until I revamped my dust collection setup. Switching to a pleated canister filter for my dust collector solved the problem. Now I use a Festool HEPA vac for my smaller tools and added an overarm dust collection on my tablesaw, which has made a huge difference!
Just got a new dust separator and pleated filter, hope it helps!
This smoke detector works great for me and even sends alerts to my phone, which is handy since I'm often not in my garage. It hasn't gone off randomly at all!
Do you think it will still work well with a weak wifi signal? Hardly get connection out there.
Check out a Technology Connections video on YouTube. It explains the two main types of smoke detectors: photoelectric and ionization. Photoelectric ones can be more sensitive to dust, so look for the ionization kind if you want to avoid false alarms.
That's right! Photoelectric detects smoke particles and can mistake dust for smoke. Ionization is generally better for dusty areas.
Thanks for the tip! I'll definitely look into that.
How much do you want to spend? I got X-sense smoke alarms—they’re super loud and all interconnected. Best decision ever! But steer clear of First Alert detectors; they’re not worth it. Having a good alarm system can also lower insurance costs significantly.
I don't mind spending a hundred bucks or so. My wifi isn't great, but my Ring cameras usually work.
Would a Reznor heater trigger that type of sensor?