Which factor can affect the effectiveness of a smoke detector?

The type of surface on which a smoke detector is mounted can significantly impact its effectiveness due to several factors. Smoke detectors work by sensing particles released during a fire, and the surface can influence how well these particles reach the detector. For instance, smoke detectors mounted on certain surfaces may not interact optimally with smoke due to barriers or airflows created by the surface material.

Mounting on a non-ideal surface might restrict airflow, causing smoke to disperse unevenly, which can delay detection. For example, if a smoke detector is installed near an air vent or on a textured surface, the way smoke flows could be altered, potentially leading to slower response times in detecting smoke.

In contrast, while factors such as noise levels, the presence of pets, and the proximity of a power supply are relevant in broader contexts, they do not directly affect the core functionality of a smoke detector in the same way as the mounting surface does. Proper installation is critical to ensure that a smoke detector performs its essential role effectively.