How Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors Will Preserve Lives
As a homeowner, the safety of your family is a top priority. One method to ensure their safety is to install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors inside your home. These devices will notify you in the situation of a fire, or a carbon monoxide leak. This gives your family members and you time to evacuate and seek assistance. In this article, we will explain the necessity of having smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors installed in your home, the different kinds of models available, and why the installation and maintenance of a professional is vital.
Smoke Alarms
Smoke alarms detect smoke and sound an alarm that sounds loud to warn the user of the possibility of fire. They use either photoelectric or ionization techniques to sense smoke molecules floating in the air. Ionization smoke alarms tend to be more sensitive flaming fires, whereas photoelectric smoke alarms are more effective in detection of smoldering flames. It is recommended that houses are equipped with both types of smoke alarms installed 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 need regular replacement of batteries. Smoke alarms that are wired, on the other hand they are wired to the electrical system of your home 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 must be checked at least every month and replaced every 10 years. It is essential to install smoke alarms in each bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on each level of your home, including the basement.
Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas that is created due to the insufficient combustion of fuels like propane, natural gas, and wood. CO can be deadly 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 amount of CO present in the air and emitting an alarm when levels become unsafe. There are two main types of CO detectors available including battery-operated and plug-in. For plug-in detectors, professional assistance is required for installation, while battery-operated detectors are easy to set up and maintain.
CO detectors must be tested at least once each month, and then replaced every 7 to 5-7 years. It is essential to put CO detectors near sleeping areas and at every level of your home, including the basement.
Combination Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide detectors
Smoke alarms that are combined with carbon monoxide detectors offer dual protection all in one. They work by using both ionization and photoelectric sensors to detect CO and smoke levels. They also have features like alarms for voice and digital displays that can give more information in the event that there is an incident.
Professional Installation and Maintenance
Smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detections are relatively easy to install however, it is important to hire a skilled electrician perform the task. They will make sure that devices have been installed properly and in the correct locations, reducing the risk of false alarms or missing detections. Professional electricians can also perform regular maintenance to make sure that the devices are functioning properly and replace them when needed.
DIY installation and maintenance could result in potential dangers including incorrect installation or damaged wiring which could lead to false alarms, or even worse, a failure to detect CO leaks or fires.
Electricians of Papakura can assist with the installation and maintenance of smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors for your home. Our skilled electricians have experience with a broad range of electrical services for residential use which includes the installation of security devices such as carbon monoxide and smoke alarms detectors. We will ensure that your devices are set up properly and regularly maintained providing you with peace of mind and ensuring the safety for your loved ones.
Conclusion
Carbon monoxide and smoke alarms are essential safety devices for every home. They are able to alert you in the event of a fire or leak of CO, giving your family members and you time to get out and seek help. There are a variety of smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors 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 and missed detections.
We at Electricians of Papakura, we are committed to ensuring the safety of the homes of our customers. We offer a variety of electrical services for homes that include the installation and maintenance of smoke alarms and CO detectors. Contact us today to set up an appointment and take the first step to ensure the safety of your house and family.