Important Facts Everyone Should Understand About Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
As homeowner, the security of your family members is the top priority. One method to ensure their safety is to install CO detectors as well as smoke alarms inside your home. These devices can alert you in the case of a fire or a carbon monoxide leak, allowing you and your family enough time to leave and seek help. The following article we will explain the importance of having smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors installed in your home, the different types available, and why the installation and maintenance of a professional is essential.
Smoke Alarms
Smoke alarms detect smoke and then emit a loud alarm to alert you of a potential fire. They operate by using photoelectric or ionization technology to detect smoke particles floating in the air. Ionization smoke alarms have a higher sensitivity to burning fires, while photoelectric smoke alarms are more effective at detecting smoldering fires. It is recommended that houses have both kinds of smoke alarms to ensure maximum security.
There are two primary types of smoke alarms on the market: battery-operated and hardwired. Battery-operated smoke alarms are easy to install and maintain, however they need regular replacement of batteries. Smoke alarms that are wired, in contrast they are wired to your home’s electrical system 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 should 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 and outside every sleeping space, and on every level of your house, including the basement.
Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon monoxide (CO) is an inert gas with no color and smell that is created due to the incomplete combustion of fuels such as propane, natural gas and wood. CO is deadly when present in high concentrations, making it essential to have the carbon monoxide detector inside your home.
Carbon monoxide detectors operate by sensing the amount of CO in the air and emitting an alarm when levels become dangerous. There are two kinds of CO detectors: plug-in and battery-operated. Plug-in detectors require professional installation, while battery-operated detectors are easy to install and maintain.
CO detectors must be tested at least a month and replaced every 5 to 7 years. It is essential to put CO detectors close to sleeping areas and at every level of your house, including the basement.
Combination Smoke Alarms, Carbon Monoxide Alarms and Detectors
Combination smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors offer dual protection within one device. They work by using photoelectric and ionization sensors to detect smoke and CO levels. They also have features like voice alerts and digital displays that can give additional details in the event of an emergency.
Professional Installation and Maintenance
Although smoke alarms as well as carbon monoxide detectors are easy to set up but it’s essential to have a professional electrician do the job. They will ensure that devices have been placed properly and in the correct places, thus reducing the chance of false alarms or missing detections. Professional electricians also carry out regular maintenance to ensure the devices are functioning properly and replace them when needed.
DIY installation and maintenance can create risks, such as incorrect placement or faulty wiring, which can result in false alarms or, even more dangerously the failure to identify CO leaks or fires.
Local Electrician Glen Waverley can assist with the installation and maintenance of smoke alarms as well as carbon monoxide detectors for your home. Our highly trained electricians have experience in a variety of residential electrical services which includes the installation of security devices such as carbon monoxide and smoke alarms detectors. We can make sure the devices you have purchased are set up correctly and are maintained regularly, giving you peace of mind and ensuring the safety of your family.
Conclusion
Alarms for smoke and CO detectors are crucial security devices that should be in every home. They will notify you in the case of a fire or CO leak, giving your family and you enough time to get out and seek assistance. There are various types of smoke alarms as well as carbon monoxide detectors that are available and some are combination devices that provide dual protection. It’s important to have a qualified electrician set up and keep these gadgets in good working order in order to lower the possibility of false alarms or missing detections.
In Local Electrician Glen Waverley, we are determined to ensure the safety of our clients’ residences. We offer a range of electrical services for residential use which include installations and repairs of smoke alarms as well as Carbon monoxide detection. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. This is the first step towards ensuring the safety of your house and your family.