Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: A Necessary Addition for Each Home

As a homeowner, the safety of your family is a top priority. One method to protect them is to install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in your house. These devices can alert you in the situation of a fire, or carbon monoxide leak, allowing your family members and you time to leave and seek assistance. In this article, we will explain the necessity to have smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors at your home, the various kinds of models available, and the reasons why having a professional install and maintain them is vital.

Smoke Alarms

Smoke alarms are devices that detect smoke and sound an alarm that sounds loud to warn you to the possibility of a fire. They work by using either photoelectric or ionization techniques to sense smoke molecules floating in the air. Ionization smoke alarms tend to be more sensitive flame fires, whereas photoelectric smoke alarms are better at detection of smoldering flames. It is suggested that homes have both types of smoke alarms installed for maximum protection.

There are two primary types of smoke alarms available: battery-operated and hardwired. Battery-operated smoke alarms are easy to set up and maintain, however, they require frequent battery replacements. Hardwired smoke alarms however are connected to your home’s electrical system and come with a battery backup in case of power outages. They need professional installation but are more durable in the long run.

Smoke alarms must be checked every month at a minimum as well as replaced once every 10 years. It is essential to install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, 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 by the incomplete combustion of various fuels, such as propane, natural gas, and wood. CO is deadly when present in high levels, which is why it vital to install an carbon monoxide detector installed in your home.

Carbon monoxide detectors work by detecting the amount of CO present in the air and emitting an alarm when CO levels become unsafe. There are two main types of CO detectors that are available: plug-in and battery-operated. 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 once each month, and then replaced every 7 to 5-7 years. It is important to install CO detectors in areas that are used for sleeping and on all levels of your house, including the basement.

Combination Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide detectors

Combination smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors combine protection within one device. They use both ionization and photoelectric sensors to detect smoke and CO levels. They also have features like alarms for voice and digital displays that give more information in the event of an emergency.

Professional Installations and Maintenance

Although smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detections are relatively simple to install, it’s important to have a professional electrician perform the task. They will ensure that devices have been placed properly and in the correct places, thus reducing the chance of false alarms or missed detections. Professional electricians can also conduct regular maintenance to ensure the devices are operating correctly and can replace them if necessary.

DIY maintenance and installation can result in potential dangers including incorrect installation or damaged wiring, which can result in false alarms, or even worse, a failure to detect a fire or CO leak.

Local Electrician Cronulla can assist with the installation and maintenance of smoke alarms as well as carbon monoxide detectors at your home. Our highly skilled electricians are experienced in a variety of electrical services for homes that include the installation of security devices such as smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. We will ensure the devices you have purchased are installed correctly and maintained regularly providing you with peace of mind and ensuring the security for your loved ones.

Conclusion

Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are crucial 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 get out and seek help. There are various types of smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors available as well as combo devices that provide double protection. It is important to have a qualified electrician to install these appliances and monitor them in order to minimize the chance of false alarms or missing detections.

At Local Electrician Cronulla, we are determined to ensure the safety of the homes of our customers. We offer a variety of electrical services for residential use that include the installation and maintenance of 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 home and your family.