Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Essential Safety Devices for Your House
As a homeowner, the safety of your family is an absolute priority. One method to ensure their safety is to install Carbon monoxide and smoke detectors in your home. These devices can alert you in the case of a fire or carbon monoxide leak. This gives you and your family enough time to leave and seek assistance. This article we will explain the necessity to have smoke alarms as well as carbon monoxide detectors in your home, as well as the many types available, and the reasons why having a professional install and maintain them is essential.
Smoke Alarms
Smoke alarms are devices that detect smoke and sound a loud alarm to alert you to the possibility of a fire. They work by using either photoelectric or ionization techniques to sense smoke molecules that are in the air. Ionization smoke alarms tend to be more sensitive burning fires, whereas photoelectric smoke alarms are more effective at detect smoldering fires. It is recommended that houses have both kinds of smoke alarms to provide maximum protection.
There are two main kinds of smoke alarms that are available that are battery-operated and hardwired. Battery-operated smoke alarms are easy to install and maintain, however they need regular replacement of batteries. Hardwired smoke alarms, on the other hand they are wired to the electrical system of your home and have a battery backup in case of power outages. They require professional installation but are more durable in the long run.
Smoke alarms need to be tested every month at a minimum to be replaced after 10 years. It is important to put smoke alarms in each bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of your home, including the basement.
Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that is produced through the incomplete combustion of fuels such as propane, natural gas, and wood. CO can be deadly in high levels, which is why it crucial to have the carbon monoxide detector inside your home.
Carbon monoxide detectors work by sensing the level of CO present in the air, and then emitting an alarm when the levels are dangerous. There are two main types of CO detectors that are available: plug-in and battery-operated. Plug-in detectors require professional installation, while battery-operated detectors are straightforward to install and maintain.
CO detectors should be checked at least once a month and replaced every 5 to 7 years. It is essential to put CO detectors near sleeping areas and at every level of your home, which includes the basement.
Combination Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Combination smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors offer dual protection in one device. They utilize photoelectric and ionization sensors to detect smoke and CO levels. They also include features such as voice alerts and digital displays to provide more information in the event that there is an incident.
Professional Installations and Maintenance
Smoke alarms as well as carbon monoxide detectors can be easy to set up but it’s essential to employ a professional electrician do the job. They will ensure that devices have been placed correctly and at the proper places, thus reducing the chance of false alarms or missing detections. Professional electricians also carry out regular maintenance to ensure the devices are functioning correctly and can replace them if required.
DIY installation and maintenance can create risks like improper placement or faulty wiring which could lead to false alarms, or even worse the failure to identify a fire or CO leak.
Local Electrician Croydon can assist with the installation and maintenance of smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors for your home. Our highly skilled electricians have experience with a broad range of residential electrical services that include the installation of security devices such as smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. We will ensure the devices you have purchased are set up properly and regularly maintained to give you peace of mind as well as the safety of your family.
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 CO leak, giving you and your family enough time to get out and seek assistance. There are a variety of smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors available, including 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 and missed detections.
At Local Electrician Croydon, we are dedicated to the security of our clients’ homes. We offer a variety of electrical services for homes that include installing and maintaining smoke alarms as well as Carbon monoxide detection. Contact us today to set up an appointment. Take the first step to ensure the security of your home and family.