Which type of detector should be installed six feet away from a fluorescent fixture?

A photoelectric detector is the appropriate choice to be installed six feet away from a fluorescent fixture because it is less likely to experience false alarms triggered by the electrical interference generated by the fluorescent lights. Photoelectric detectors work by using a light beam to detect smoke particles, making them sensitive to smoldering fires, which are often indicated by smoke. Their design allows them to perform well in environments where there might be ambient light interference.

Heat detectors, smoke detectors (ionization or photoelectric), and particularly ionization detectors, can be more affected by electrical disturbances from fluorescent fixtures. Ionization detectors are known to respond quickly to flaming fires but are generally more prone to false alarms in the presence of disruptive electrical equipment. Placing a photoelectric detector at the specified distance helps ensure it operates effectively while reducing the risk of interference from fluorescent light sources.