Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Essential Safety Tools for Your House
As homeowner, the security of your family members is an absolute priority. One way to ensure their safety is by installing CO detectors as well as smoke alarms within your home. These devices will notify you in the situation of a fire, or carbon monoxide leak, giving you and your family enough time to evacuate and seek assistance. In this article, we will explain the importance to have smoke alarms as well as carbon monoxide detectors in your home, the various kinds available, and the reasons why the installation and maintenance of a professional is essential.
Smoke Alarms
Smoke alarms detect smoke and emit an alarm sound to notify you to the possibility of a fire. They work by using either photoelectric or ionization technology to detect smoke particles floating in the air. Smoke alarms that are ionized are more sensitive to flaming fires, while photoelectric smoke alarms are better at detecting smoldering fires. It is suggested that homes are equipped with both types of smoke alarms in order to provide maximum protection.
There are two types of smoke alarms available: battery-operated and hardwired. Smoke alarms that operate with batteries are easy to install and maintain however, they require frequent battery replacements. Hardwired smoke alarms, in contrast are connected to your home’s electrical system and come with batteries in the event there are power outages. They require professional installation , but are more durable in the long run.
Smoke alarms should be tested at least every month and replaced every 10 years. It is important to put smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every floor of your home, including the basement.
Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas that is generated due to the incomplete combustion of various fuels, like propane, natural gas, and wood. CO can be fatal in high levels, which is why it essential to have an carbon monoxide detector installed in your home.
Carbon monoxide detectors function by sensing the level of CO present in the air, and then emitting an alarm when the levels are unsafe. There are two types of CO detectors available: plug-in and battery-operated. Plug-in detectors require professional installation and battery-operated detectors are simple to install and maintain.
CO detectors must be tested at least once per month and replaced after 5 to 7 years. It is essential to put CO detectors in areas that are used for sleeping and on every level of your home, which includes the basement.
Combination Smoke Alarms, Carbon Monoxide detectors
Smoke alarms that are combined with carbon monoxide detectors combine protection all in one. They work by using photoelectric and ionization sensors to detect CO and smoke levels. They also come with features like voice alerts and digital displays that can give additional information in the case that there is an incident.
Professional Installations and Maintenance
While smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are relatively simple to install but it’s essential to hire a skilled electrician perform the task. They can ensure that the devices are set up correctly and in the right areas, which reduces the possibility of false alarms or missed detections. Professional electricians also carry out regular maintenance to ensure the devices are operating correctly and can replace them if required.
DIY maintenance and installation can create risks like improper placement or damaged wiring which could lead to false alarms or, worse failing to spot a fire or CO leak.
Local Electrician Sutherland can assist with the installation and maintenance of smoke alarms as well as carbon monoxide detectors at your home. Our skilled electricians are proficient in a wide range of electrical services for homes that include the installation of safety devices such as carbon monoxide and smoke alarms detectors. We can make sure that your devices are put in place correctly and maintained regularly, giving you peace of mind and ensuring the safety and security of the family.
Conclusion
Carbon monoxide and smoke alarms are vital security devices that should be in every home. They can alert you in the event of a fire or leak of CO, giving you and your family enough time to leave and seek help. There are different types of smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors that are available and some are combo devices that provide double protection. It’s important to have a professional electrician to install these appliances and monitor them to minimize the chance of false alarms or missed detections.
In Local Electrician Sutherland, we are dedicated to the security of the homes of our customers. We offer a range of residential electrical services which include installing and maintaining smoke alarms, as well as Carbon monoxide detection. Call us today to make an appointment. This is the first step in ensuring the safety of your house and your family.