Everything You Should Be Aware of About Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
As homeowner, the security of your family members is a top priority. One method to ensure their safety is by installing CO detectors as well as smoke alarms within your house. These devices will notify you in the situation of a fire, or carbon monoxide leak, giving you and your family enough time to leave and seek help. In this article, we’ll examine the necessity of having smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors at your home, as well as the many types available, and why the installation and maintenance of a professional is essential.
Smoke Alarms
Smoke alarms are devices that detect smoke and emit an alarm sound to notify you to the possibility of a fire. They use either ionization or photoelectric techniques to sense smoke molecules in the air. Smoke alarms that are ionized tend to be more sensitive flaming fires, while photoelectric smoke alarms are better at detecting smoldering fires. It is suggested that homes have both types of smoke alarms in order for maximum protection.
There are two types of smoke alarms on the market that are battery-operated and hardwired. Smoke alarms powered by batteries are simple to install and maintain however, they require frequent battery replacements. Hardwired smoke alarms, however are connected to the electrical system in your home and are equipped with an emergency battery backup in case there are power outages. They require professional installation but are more reliable in the long run.
Smoke alarms need to be tested every month at a minimum to be replaced after 10 years. It is important to put smoke alarms in all bedrooms in the bedroom, on the outside of every sleeping area, and on every level of your house, 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 can be deadly in high concentrations, making it vital to install a carbon monoxide detector in your home.
Carbon monoxide detectors work by sensing the level of CO present in the air and releasing an alarm when the levels are unsafe. There are two kinds of CO detectors that are battery-operated and plug-in. The plug-in type of detectors requires professional installations, while battery-operated detectors are easy to set up and maintain.
CO detectors should be checked at least once a month and replaced every 5-7 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
Smoke alarms that are combined with carbon monoxide detectors combine protection within one device. They utilize photoelectric and ionization sensors to detect smoke and CO levels. They also include features such as voice alerts as well as digital displays that can provide more information in the case in the event of an emergency.
Professional Installation and Maintenance
Smoke alarms as well as carbon monoxide detectors are easy to install but it’s essential to hire a skilled electrician do the job. They can ensure that the devices are installed properly and in the correct places, thus reducing the chance of false alarms and missed detections. Professional electricians can also perform regular maintenance to ensure the devices are operating properly and replace them when necessary.
DIY maintenance and installation can create risks, such as incorrect placement or faulty wiring which could lead to false alarms or, even more dangerously the failure to identify the presence of CO or fire.
Local Electrician Eltham can assist with the installation and maintenance of smoke alarms as well as carbon monoxide detectors for your home. Our skilled electricians are experienced in a variety of electrical services for residential use that include the installation of security devices such as carbon monoxide and smoke alarms detectors. We can ensure the devices you have purchased are set up properly and regularly maintained, giving you peace of mind and the security of your family.
Conclusion
Alarms for smoke and CO detectors are essential security tools for every house. They are able to alert you in the event of a fire or CO leak, allowing you and your family enough time to evacuate and seek help. There are a variety of smoke alarms as well as carbon monoxide detectors that are available, including combo devices that provide double protection. It is important to have a professional electrician to install these appliances and monitor them in order to lower the possibility of false alarms or missing detections.
In Local Electrician Eltham, we are committed to ensuring the safety of our clients’ homes. We offer a variety of electrical services for residential use that include the installation and maintenance of smoke alarms, as well as carbon monoxide detectors. Call us today to make an appointment. This is the first step to ensure the safety of your house and family.