Cigarette smoke is a fairly obvious and strong odour that can usually be detected by the nose of a non-smoker. However, if you need solid proof that someone is surreptitiously smoking in your home, there are air quality detection companies and devices that can confirm the presence of cigarette smoke residue. Smoke detectors that are specifically designed to detect cigarette smoke are also available that can catch someone in the act. Standard smoke detectors are usually not able to detect cigarette smoke and are ineffectual as a defence against cigarette smoking in the home.

Hire an air quality detection company or consultant to run an air quality report in your home. These are most often local companies or individuals who can come to your home, test the air and provide you with a report detailing the presence of specific gases and fumes, including cigarette smoke. A less expensive alternative would be to purchase a home air quality test kit, but the results may not be as accurate as those provided by a professional.

  • Cigarette smoke is a fairly obvious and strong odour that can usually be detected by the nose of a non-smoker.
  • These are most often local companies or individuals who can come to your home, test the air and provide you with a report detailing the presence of specific gases and fumes, including cigarette smoke.

Purchase an air quality detector that specifically indicates it can detect cigarette smoke. Two such devices are the Bosch Macurco D381 Air Quality Detector and the Enercorp AQT-2000 Air Quality Monitor, which can detect various gases and fumes, such as those left behind by cigarette smoke.

Install the air quality monitor with the directions provided with your specific model.

Check the air quality monitor on a daily basis. If cigarette smoke is present but you don't know who the smoker is or when the smoking is taking place, you may want to consider purchasing and installing a cigarette smoke detector.

TIP

Most standard smoke detectors are not capable of picking up cigarette smoke, but devices such as the I-Zone Cigarette Smoke Detector and the Puff Alert Cigarette Smoke Detector are designed to catch smokers in the act. These devices, as well as home testing kits, can usually be found in local hardware stores or through online retailers.