Can Vapes Set Off Fire Alarms?

In this article, we’ll explore the different factors that can affect whether or not vapes set off fire alarms. So, let’s dive in!

Vaping indoors can raise concerns about setting off fire alarms. But the question is, will your vape actually trigger the smoke detector?

The answer isn’t straightforward—it depends on a number of variables.

Let’s take a closer look.

Vaping & Fire Alarms: MTL or DTL?

The first point to consider when vaping near a fire alarm is whether you’re vaping MTL or DTL: are you using a low-powered starter pod device or a higher-powered sub-ohm kit? The answer to this will determine whether or not you’re in the clear.

If you’re a starter MTL vaper who uses a pod device, starter vape kit, or an otherwise low-powered kit like a vape pen, you’re far less likely to set off the fire alarm—especially with high-PG vape juices like salt nicotine or 50/50 E-Liquids.

Because these devices produce a small amount of vapour, you’d be hard-pressed to set off the smoke detector even if you wanted to—unless, of course, you’re a chain vaper.

Chain vaping—as in, puffing from your vape constantly with few breaks in between—is likely to set off a fire alarm regardless of which type of device you’re using. The more vapour in the air, the more likely you are to set off the smoke detector.

If you’re a sub-ohm vaper employing an advanced DTL vaping style and using high-VG E-Liquids like shortfills, you’re more likely to set off the smoke alarm. This is due to the density of the vapour these types of devices and E-Liquids produce.

Essentially, standard pod kit vapers aren’t likely to set off the fire alarm—but those who chain vape and those who vape sub-ohm should be careful when vaping indoors.

Do vapes set off fire alarms?

Yes, vapes can indeed set off fire alarms, but it depends on the style of vaping, types of e-cigarette devices used and other external factors.

So, you’re indoors, and you’ve got a vape in hand. The smoke detector is on the other side of the room—but are you safe to vape? Let’s look at some important factors to consider.

How far away is the smoke detector?

If your fire alarm is directly overhead, you’ll want to proceed with caution. But if the fire alarm is in the corridor outside your bedroom, you’re probably safe to vape.

Which type of fire alarm do you have?

When it comes to fire alarms, there are four primary types: ionisation (the standard type), optical, multi-sensor, and heat. Vaping is likely to trigger ionisation, optical, and multi-sensor alarms, but it is unlikely to activate a heat detector.

Heat detectors are commonly found in kitchens and bathrooms, as they are less prone to false alarms caused by cooking smoke and steam.

Is the room ventilated?

Increasing ventilation by opening a window can assist in reducing the concentration of vapour in the air and will lower the chances of inadvertently triggering the smoke alarm.

How high are the ceilings?

If you have higher ceilings, you’re less likely to set off the fire alarm as long as the room is generally well-ventilated and you’re not using a sub-ohm device.

How much are you vaping?

You’ll need to consider how much vapour you’re producing. A standard sub-ohm vaper or an MTL user who chain vapes is far more likely to set off a fire alarm than someone who uses a simple, low-powered device.

How Do I Vape Without Setting Off the Fire Alarm?

If you’re a chain vaper or a sub-ohm user and you want to vape indoors without setting off that pesky fire alarm, try some of these helpful tips to make sure your vape session isn’t interrupted by a blaring smoke alarm.

Get yourself an air purifier.

Air purifiers are able to filter vapour out of the air so you can comfortably vape inside.

You can purchase either a large free-standing unit (which is rather expensive) or a table top unit which can be placed on your desk or bedside table so you can vape wherever is comfortable for you.

For best results, vape directly into (or in the direction of) the air purifier.

Invest in a low-powered device for vaping inside.

If you usually vape sub-ohm and you’re worried about setting off the smoke detector, it’s a good idea to invest in a small, lower-powered device for at-home use.

These cheap vape kits are less likely to set off a fire alarm and can be vaped freely indoors so long as you don’t chain vape.

Open a window.

This one should go without saying, but if you’re able to open a window, this will help to dilute the concentration of vapour in the air.

Consider your distance from the smoke detector.

Personally, I like to ensure that I’m at least a metre away from any fire alarm when I’m vaping my MTL device indoors.

Hold your vapour in longer.

The longer you hold the vapour in your lungs, the less comes out when you exhale. Go on, try it! If you’re looking to lower the concentration of vapour hanging in the air, holding your vapour in longer will ensure less of it lingers when you exhale.

How long does vape smoke stay in the air?

While vapour does not linger as long as cigarette smoke, which can stay for hours or even days, it generally clears within minutes to a couple of hours depending on the conditions. Here are the key factors that influence how long vape smoke lingers:

• Density of Vapour: Vapour is typically less dense than cigarette smoke and consists mainly of propylene glycol, glycerin, and flavourings. This composition allows it to dissipate rapidly, usually within 10 to 15 seconds after exhalation in well-ventilated areas​.
• Ventilation: Adequate ventilation significantly reduces the time vape smoke stays in the air. In well-ventilated spaces, the vapour can disperse quickly, while in poorly ventilated rooms, it may linger longer​.
• Humidity and Temperature: Higher humidity levels can cause vape particles to settle faster, while warmer temperatures encourage quicker dissipation of the vapour. Conversely, in dry or cooler environments, the vapour might stay airborne for a longer period​.
• Type of Device and E-Liquid: The type of vaping device and the e-liquid used also play a role. Devices that produce larger clouds will result in vapour that lingers longer. Additionally, e-liquids with higher vegetable glycerin content tend to create denser clouds that take more time to dissipate​.

A Word of Caution

Takeaway: Can vapes set off fire alarms?

Hopefully we’ve helped to quell some of your fears here. And for those whose devices aren’t safe from the fire alarm—namely, chain vapers and sub-ohm users—we hope we’ve given you some valuable tools to keep that blaring alarm at bay.

Will a vape set off a fire alarm? Our takeaways:

• If you’re using a starter device, you’re vape probably wont trigger the fire alarm
• Chain vapers and advanced vapers should be careful around fire alarms
• Ventilation is key—open a window or use an air purifier where possible when vaping in a room with a fire alarm
• Put some distance between your vape and the smoke detector
• Whatever you do, DO NOT cover or disable the smoke alarm

Looking for more helpful tips? Check out our other Vaping Guides!