Which type of smoke detector is known for being quicker to react?

The photoelectric smoke detector is known for its quicker reaction to certain types of fires, particularly smoldering fires that produce larger smoke particles. This type of detector uses a light source and a photoelectric sensor. When smoke enters the detection chamber, it scatters the light, triggering the alarm. This mechanism is especially effective in detecting slower-burning fires that produce significant smoke before bursting into flames, making photoelectric detectors ideal for living areas and bedrooms where such fires are more likely to occur.

In contrast, ionization smoke detectors contain a small amount of radioactive material that ionizes the air in the sensing chamber. While they are typically faster in reacting to fast-flaming fires, they might be slower at detecting smoldering fires, hence they are not as versatile for various fire scenarios. Meanwhile, the classification of hardwired versus battery-operated does not inherently affect the speed of detection; rather, it refers to the power source and installation method of the detectors.