Everything You Need to Know About Replacing Your Smoke DetectorsNovember 3, 2016
The importance of smoke detectors can’t be overestimated. As a homeowner, you want to make sure your detectors are always functioning properly.
If they aren’t, you’re definitely taking a huge risk. One of the key things you should do is monitor your detectors to know when they need to be replaced.
Here’s everything you need to know about replacing your detectors:
Always Replace Old or Improperly Functioning Detectors
The general consensus is that the best time to replace your detectors is at the ten-year mark. According to smoke detector experts, detectors that are over than 10 years don’t do their job.
Also……
Like all home appliances, detectors are prone to accumulate dust. This can inhibit or even break smoke sensors. The best way to know if your sensors are broken is to replace the battery and then perform a test. If the alarm doesn’t sound after you push the test button, a replacement is necessary.
Always Replace All Your Detectors
When your detectors hit the 10-year mark or aren’t working properly, you should replace all of them. Problems with individual detectors can turn into a mess. The best thing to do is get all your detectors on the same page.
Use an Alarm Service Company to Ensure the Job is Done Properly
The best way to ensure your home and family’s safety is have a professional alarm service company install your new alarms. You can replace the detectors yourself, but it’s a risk—there’s a lot of skilled electrical work that goes into the installation. A professional alarm service company can save you time, money, and frustrations.
Follow the National Fire Protection Association’s Advice
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) sets the gold standard in fire prevention. Their advice for installing smoke detectors is:
- Choose properly tested detectors
- Install smoke alarms in all parts of your home
- Install detectors at least 10 feet (3 meters) from cooking appliances
- Mount detectors to your wall
- Never install detectors near draft areas (i.e. windows)
- Do not paint detectors
NFPA’s advice for testing detectors is:
- Test detectors once a month
- Make sure everyone in the home knows what the alarm sounds like
- Clean detectors using the manufacturer’s advice
- Replace the battery when the detector chirps
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when replacing a battery
Following this advice ensures that your detectors are always operating at peak condition.
Take Maximum Precaution by Interconnecting Your Alarms
Interconnecting your alarms offers maximum fire protection. When a significant amount of smoke is detected in one area of the home, all detectors will sound to ensure everyone in and around the home is aware that a fire is near. Always use a professional alarm company to interconnect your alarms.
Conclusion
You now know everything there’s to know about replacing your smoke detectors. Protect your home and family by putting the information in this post to use. If you need some help, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’d be happy to assist you and make your home a safer place.