Can Rice Cooker Steam Set Off a Smoke Detector?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around whether rice cookers can release enough steam to trigger a smoke detector, particularly in small living spaces like dorm rooms. Participants explore the design of rice cookers, the nature of steam release, and the sensitivity of smoke detectors.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants inquire about the existence of rice cookers that do not release steam outside.
  • Others argue that rice cookers must release steam to function properly, with one participant noting that their small cooker has a minimal steam vent.
  • A suggestion is made to use a tube to condense steam into a jar of water, indicating a potential workaround for those concerned about steam.
  • One participant humorously shares personal anecdotes about their rice cooker and cooking techniques, though this does not directly address the steam issue.
  • Concerns are raised about the sensitivity of smoke detectors, with one participant questioning if steam could trigger them, particularly in small rooms.
  • Another participant explains the types of smoke detectors and suggests that photoelectric detectors are less likely to be triggered by steam, while noting that ionization detectors would require a significant amount of steam to activate.
  • It is mentioned that the steam from a small rice cooker is negligible unless the lid is removed, and that allowing steam to condense before opening may reduce the risk of triggering a detector.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying opinions on the steam release of rice cookers and its potential to trigger smoke detectors. There is no consensus on whether rice cookers can be designed to avoid steam release, nor on the likelihood of steam setting off smoke detectors.

Contextual Notes

Participants discuss the characteristics of different types of smoke detectors and their sensitivity to steam, but the discussion does not resolve the specific conditions under which steam might trigger a detector.

tgt
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Are there rice cookers that doesn't release steam outside?
 
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Probably not. Its got to get rid of the steam somehow. Why do you need one that doesn't release steam? Mine is a small one with a small hole in the lid to release steam. Its hardly noticable. The kitchen is small but not closet sized.
 
You could perhaps run a tube from the steam vent into a jar (or similar) of water to condense the steam...if it really is that important to be steam free.

I also know you can use rice cookers as stills...(random fact)
 
My Rice cooker Mr. Chen is a really nice guy. He always does a good job and he's never once lost his cool when we've talked outside. :devil:

Hiyoooo.

What I learned from IHYRUNNN CHEFFAAH (said in funny accent), is that when you steam rice, the top rice is the best quality, and the bottom is of lesser quality. Also, when you cook the rice, you're supposed to (wash?) the grains in water the same temperature as the water in the cooker so it doesn't shock the rice. I guess if you do that you get nice fluffy sticky white rice.
 
Rice cookers release steam. What's the big deal?
My cooker broke but it did serve me for 5 years. Its a good investment. For those who don't know, the cooker turns off by itself when the rice is done, so it's somewhat idiot-proof.
My recipie is to cook the rice. Crack two or three eggs into the rice. Add a lot of catsup and salt. Stir. Ahhh, life is good.
 
Helios said:
My recipie is to cook the rice. Crack two or three eggs into the rice. Add a lot of catsup and salt. Stir. Ahhh, life is good.

That's... just strange.
 
Vomitous was the word that came to mind.
 
TheStatutoryApe said:
Why do you need one that doesn't release steam?

Because there is an overly sensitive smoke detector in my room. Would steam set it off?
 
tgt said:
Because there is an overly sensitive smoke detector in my room. Would steam set it off?

I don't think it should. There are two different types...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smoke_detector
Ionization detectors and photoelectric. Apparently the photoelectric are less likely to be set off by steam but even the Ionization detectors should require a lot of steam to set them off. I have a small three cup cooker and the steam from it seems negligable until you take the top off. Even that doesn't seem to amount to much and if you let it sit awhile before opening it most of it will be condensed. If you're in a small sized dorm room it might be more noticable but I wouldn't think that it would set off the detector.
 

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