How Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors May Protect Lives
As a homeowner, the safety of your family members is the top priority. One way to make sure they are safe is to install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in your home. These devices can alert you in the situation of a fire, or a carbon monoxide leak, allowing your family and you enough time to get out and seek assistance. This article we will discuss the importance for having smoke alarms as well as carbon monoxide detectors in your home, as well as the many types available, and why the installation and maintenance of a professional is essential.
Smoke Alarms
Smoke alarms detect smoke and then emit an alarm sound to notify you to the possibility of a fire. They operate by using photoelectric or ionization techniques to sense smoke molecules floating in the air. Smoke alarms that are ionized tend to be more sensitive flaming fires, while photoelectric smoke alarms are more effective at detection of smoldering flames. It’s recommended that homes have both types of smoke alarms for maximum protection.
There are two primary types of smoke alarms available that are battery-operated and hardwired. Battery-operated smoke alarms are easy to install and maintain, but require regular battery replacements. Hardwired smoke alarms in contrast, are connected to your home’s electrical system and come with a battery backup in case of 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 essential to install smoke alarms in all bedrooms, outside each sleeping area and on every floor of your home, which includes the basement.
Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas that is produced by the insufficient combustion of fuels such as propane, natural gas and wood. CO can be fatal when it is present in large quantities, which makes it vital to install an carbon monoxide detector installed in your home.
Carbon monoxide detectors function by sensing the amount of CO in the air and releasing an alarm when levels become unsafe. There are two types of CO detectors that are battery-operated and plug-in. The plug-in type of detectors requires professional installations and battery-operated detectors are simple to install and maintain.
CO detectors must be tested at least a month and replaced every 5-7 years. It’s important to place CO detectors in areas that are used for sleeping and on every level of your house, including the basement.
Combination Smoke Alarms, Carbon Monoxide Alarms and Detectors
Smoke alarms that are combined with carbon monoxide detectors provide dual protection all in one. They work by using both photoelectric and ionization sensors to detect smoke and CO levels. They also have features like alarms for voice and digital displays that can provide more details in the event of an emergency.
Professional Installations and Maintenance
While smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detections are relatively easy to set up but it’s essential to have a professional electrician to do the work. They can ensure that devices have been placed correctly and at the proper places, thus reducing the chance of false alarms and missed detections. Professional electricians can also perform regular maintenance to ensure that the devices are operating properly and replace them when required.
DIY maintenance and installation can result in potential dangers like improper placement or faulty wiring, which can result in false alarms, or even worse the failure to identify a fire or CO leak.
Local Electrician Dural can assist with the installation and maintenance of smoke alarms as well as carbon monoxide detectors in your home. Our skilled electricians have experience in a wide range of electrical services for residential use that include the installation of safety devices like smoke alarms as well as carbon monoxide detectors. We will ensure the devices you have purchased are set up correctly and are maintained regularly providing you with peace of mind and ensuring the safety and security of the family.
Conclusion
Alarms for smoke and CO detectors are vital safety devices for every home. They will notify you in the case of a fire or CO leak, giving you and your family enough time to leave and seek assistance. There are a variety of smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors as well as combo devices that provide double protection. It is important to have a professional electrician install and maintain these devices to reduce the risk of false alarms or missed detections.
In Local Electrician Dural, we are committed to ensuring the safety of our clients’ homes. We offer a range of electrical services for homes which include installing and maintaining smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards ensuring the security of your home and your family.