What method is used to test smoke detectors in dwellings other than one and two family dwellings?

Smoke detectors in dwellings other than one and two family dwellings are commonly tested using smoke or a listed aerosol. This method is preferred because it simulates the actual condition that a smoke detector is intended to respond to. By introducing smoke or a specified aerosol designed for testing, technicians can ensure that the detector is functioning properly and will activate when actual smoke is present during a fire scenario.

Using smoke or a listed aerosol aligns with safety regulations and best practice guidelines, enabling a reliable assessment of the detector's sensitivity and response time. It's important that these testing materials meet the necessary safety standards, thus ensuring that no harmful effects occur during the testing process.

Other methods, like utilizing water or manual testing, do not provide a valid simulation of smoke conditions, which could lead to misleading results about the detectors' operational reliability. While heat tests are acknowledged, they aren’t the primary recommended approach for smoke detectors specifically, as they are designed to respond to smoke particles rather than variations in temperature.