A photoelectric smoke detector is a safety device that uses a light source and a sensor to detect smoke. It works by shining a beam of light into a sensing chamber. When smoke enters the chamber, it scatters the light, triggering the alarm. This type of detector is particularly effective for detecting smoldering fires, which produce more smoke before bursting into flames. These detectors are often preferred for residential use because they are less likely to produce false alarms from cooking or steam. Regular maintenance, such as testing the alarm and replacing batteries, is essential to ensure proper functionality and safety.