Yes, heat can definitely make a smoke detector go off, especially when there are sudden temperature changes or when heat is directly focused on the detector. Some smoke detectors are also designed to be heat detectors, going off at a certain temperature.

How Heat Can Trigger a Smoke Detector:

Sudden Temperature Changes:

Smoke detectors are sensitive to changes in temperature, and sudden fluctuations can sometimes trigger an alarm, even if there isn’t smoke.

Direct Heat Exposure:

If a heat source, like a heater or the sun, is directly focused on the smoke detector, it can cause it to activate.

Heat Detectors:

Some smoke detectors are specifically designed as heat detectors and will activate when a certain temperature threshold is reached.

Steam:

Steam from showers, boiling water, or even ironing can also trigger a smoke detector.

Dust and Debris:

Dust or debris accumulating on the detector can sometimes interfere with the sensor, leading to false alarms.

Examples:

A heater being turned on for the first time in a while can burn off dust and create a smell that triggers the detector.

Attics that don’t get ventilated can get extremely hot and trigger alarms.

Drying clothes indoors near a heat source can generate steam that activates the detector.