Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: A Required Element for Each Household
As a homeowner, the safety of your family is the top priority. One method to make sure they are safe is by installing Carbon monoxide and smoke detectors within your house. They can notify you in the situation of a fire, or carbon monoxide leak, allowing your family members and you time to get out and seek help. In this article, we’ll explain the importance to have smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors at your home, the different types available, and why the installation and maintenance of a professional is crucial.
Smoke Alarms
Smoke alarms detect smoke and then emit a loud alarm to alert the user of the possibility of fire. They operate by using photoelectric or ionization technologies to identify smoke particles floating in the air. Ionization smoke alarms have a higher sensitivity to flame fires, while photoelectric smoke alarms are more effective in detecting smoldering fires. It’s recommended that homes have both types of smoke alarms installed to ensure maximum security.
There are two main types of smoke alarms available that are battery-operated and hardwired. Smoke alarms that operate with batteries are easy to set up and maintain, but require regular battery replacements. Hardwired smoke alarms, in contrast they are wired to your home’s electrical system and have a battery backup in case of power failures. They require professional installation but are more efficient in the long term.
Smoke alarms must be checked every month at a minimum and replaced every 10 years. It is essential to install 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 a colorless, odorless gas that is generated through the incomplete combustion of various fuels, like propane, natural gas and wood. CO is deadly when present in high concentrations, making it essential to have a carbon monoxide detector in your home.
Carbon monoxide detectors work by detecting the amount of CO present in the air and emitting an alarm when levels become dangerous. There are two types of CO detectors available that are battery-operated and plug-in. The plug-in type of detectors requires professional installations while battery-operated detectors are easy to install and maintain.
CO detectors should be checked at least once per month and replaced after 5 to 7 years. It is important to install CO detectors near sleeping areas and on all levels of your home, including the basement.
Combination Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Combination smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors offer dual protection within one device. They use both photoelectric and ionization sensors to detect smoke and CO levels. They also come with features like voice alerts as well as digital displays that give more information in the event of an emergency.
Professional Installations and Maintenance
Although smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are relatively simple to install, it’s important to employ a professional electrician perform the task. They can ensure they are placed properly and in the correct places, thus reducing the chance of false alarms or missed detections. Professional electricians can also perform regular maintenance to make sure that they are working properly and replace them when needed.
DIY installation and maintenance can result in potential dangers, such as incorrect placement or wiring that is not working that could result in false alarms or, even more dangerously failing to spot a fire or CO leak.
Local Electrician Seven Hills can assist with the installation and maintenance of smoke alarms as well as carbon monoxide detectors at your home. Our highly trained electricians are experienced in a variety of electrical services for homes which includes the installation of safety devices such as smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. We can ensure that the equipment is put in place properly and regularly maintained, giving you peace of mind and the safety of your family.
Conclusion
Carbon monoxide and smoke alarms are essential security devices that should be in every home. They are able to alert you in the situation of a fire, or leak of CO, giving your family members and you time to get out and seek assistance. There are a variety of smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors that are available and some are combo devices that provide double protection. It is essential to have a professional electrician install and maintain these devices in order to minimize the chance of false alarms or missed detections.
In Local Electrician Seven Hills, we are dedicated to the security of our clients’ homes. We offer a range of residential electrical services that include installations and repairs of smoke alarms and CO detectors. Call us today to make an appointment and take the first step to ensure the security of your home and family.