Everything You Must Be Aware of About Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
As homeowner, the security of your family is an absolute priority. One method to make sure they are safe is by installing CO detectors as well as smoke alarms within your home. These devices can alert you in the situation of a fire, or a carbon monoxide leak, giving your family and you enough time to get out and seek help. This article we will discuss the importance to have smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors installed in your home, the different types available, and why professional installation and maintenance is crucial.
Smoke Alarms
Smoke alarms are devices that detect smoke and then emit an alarm sound to notify you to the possibility of a fire. They work by using either the ionization process or photoelectric technology to detect smoke particles in the air. Smoke alarms that are ionized are more sensitive to flaming fires, whereas photoelectric smoke alarms are better at detection of smoldering flames. It is suggested that homes have both kinds of smoke alarms installed to ensure maximum security.
There are two main types of smoke alarms available: battery-operated and hardwired. Battery-operated smoke alarms are easy to set up and maintain, however, they require frequent battery replacements. Hardwired smoke alarms in contrast they are wired to the electrical system of your home and have a battery backup in case there are power outages. They need professional installation but are more efficient in the long term.
Smoke alarms need to be tested every month at a minimum as well as replaced once every 10 years. It’s important to place smoke alarms in every bedroom in the bedroom, on the outside of every sleeping area and on each level of your home, including the basement.
Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon monoxide (CO) is an inert gas with no color and smell that is produced due to the incomplete combustion of fuels such as propane, natural gas, and wood. CO can be fatal when it is present in large quantities, which makes it crucial to have the carbon monoxide detector inside your home.
Carbon monoxide detectors work by sensing the amount of CO present in the air, and then emitting an alarm when the levels are unsafe. There are two main types of CO detectors that are available that are battery-operated and plug-in. Plug-in detectors require professional installation, while battery-operated detectors are easy to install and maintain.
CO detectors must be tested at least once per month and replaced after 5 to 7 years. It is important to install CO detectors close to sleeping areas and on every level of your house, including the basement.
Combination Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Combination smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors provide dual protection in one device. They work by using both ionization and photoelectric sensors to detect smoke and CO levels. They also include features such as voice alerts and digital displays that can give additional information in the event in the event of an emergency.
Professional Installation and Maintenance
Although smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors can be easy to set up however, it is important to employ a professional electrician do the job. They will ensure that the devices are placed correctly and in the right areas, which reduces the possibility of false alarms and missed detections. Professional electricians can also conduct regular maintenance to make sure that they are working correctly and can replace them if needed.
DIY maintenance and installation can lead to potential risks, such as incorrect placement or wiring that is not working which could lead to false alarms or, worse the failure to identify the presence of CO or fire.
Local Electrician Marsden Park can assist with the installation and maintenance of smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in your home. Our highly skilled electricians have experience with a broad range of electrical services for residential use which includes the installation of safety devices like smoke alarms as well as carbon monoxide detectors. We can make sure that the equipment is set up correctly and are maintained regularly, giving you peace of mind as well as the security of your family.
Conclusion
Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are essential safety devices for every home. They can alert you in the situation of a fire, or CO leak, giving you and your family enough time to get out and seek help. There are different types of smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors as well as combo devices that provide double protection. It is important to have a qualified electrician install and maintain these devices to lower the possibility of false alarms or missing detections.
At Local Electrician Marsden Park, we are dedicated to the security of our clients’ residences. We offer a range of electrical services for residential use, including installations and repairs of smoke alarms and CO detectors. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. Take the first step in ensuring the safety of your house and your family.