Smoke Detectors: That pesky beeping, maintenance, & what you might not know about them.
We all have smoke detectors in our houses. These important little devices peppered around our dwellings are as we know for the safety of ourselves, our families, and home. They are vital in-home defense but firstly, these need to be installed and maintained correctly. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) one quarter of home fires in the United States where the smoke detectors failed was due to failed, expired devices and dead batteries.
You can help protect your family in case of fire, by learning and understanding how and where to place, maintain and test your smoke detectors.
We want to help you by guiding you into properly selecting, positioning and informing you on regular maintenance most homeowners aren’t aware of so you can rest with the peace of mind that you have taken he proper steps to maintain a safe living environment.
Features
Most are not aware that there are different types and features of smoke detectors. Some are hardwired (these also have back up battery power), throughout your house where others are battery powered. According to Richard Roux, a senior electrical specialist with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). “That means when one alarm sounds, they all do.” Roux says. You can buy devices that interconnect with a wireless signal or hardwired connection. Consumer Report says.
The sensors that vary in different detectors are ionization and photoelectric. One is better at detecting flames while the other is better at sensing smoldering fires. "If a fire smolders with no flame, then a photoelectric sensor will detect it first," Roux says. "If it is a hot, flaming fire, then an ionization sensor will likely sound first." There are many options that are now dual-sensor, meaning they use both technologies. However, If you don't have dual-sensor alarms, the NFPA recommends installing both ionization and photoelectric alarms in your home.
Certain models include a built-in carbon monoxide (CO) detector, which Consumer Reports says alerts you of dangerous levels of this deadly gas. If your smoke alarm isn't a dual model with a CO detector built in, you'll want to also purchase a CO alarm separately to install in your home. The Consumer Product Safety Commission says that CO alarms should be installed outside all sleeping areas and on every level of the home.
Proper Placement
Where do I place all of these devices in my home for maximum efficiency and protection?
It is recommended by The NFPA to place a smoke alarm inside every bedroom, outside every sleeping area and on every level of your home, including the basement. Place the alarms high on the wall so there are no more than 12 inches from the top of the alarm to the ceiling. To avoid false alarms, position units more than 10 feet from cooking appliances and 3 feet from bathrooms with a shower or tub (as steam from a hot shower can accidentally trigger the alarms).
Have a vaulted ceiling or pitched roof? There are special guidelines for these homes so it is best to check with your local building or fire department, the smoke alarm manufacturer or the NFPA for assistance.
Maintaining and when to Replace
Most people know that smoke detectors have expiration dates. "They have a life of 10 years," Roux says. "But, if it has a built-in CO detector, you'll need to replace it sooner." Most CO detectors come with a 5 to 7-year warranty, according to Consumer Reports.
We’re all familiar with that annoying chirping sound that happens every now and again, that’s the device telling us something. Most of the time it’s simply because the batteries are low. Change your batteries right away when you hear the chirping. DO NOT unplug the device to mute the sound. According to the NFPA, among fires in which smoke alarms were present but didn't operate, 46 percent of the alarms had missing or disconnected batteries.
Maintaining your detectors is a great away to stay ahead of that pesky chirp and any other problems. You can do this easily by testing your smoke alarms monthly, the U.S. Fire Administration recommends. With your finger or a broom handle to press the "test" button to ensure the alarm sounds. "I can't stress the importance of testing enough," Roux says. "It's the only way you can know that your smoke alarm is working." When it comes to the safety of you and your family, that's one test well worth planning for.
You will want to maintain a regular replacement schedule in addition to testing monthly. NPFA notes, if your alarm has "long life," or non-replaceable batteries, they can be effective for up to 10 years without needing replacement. But all other batteries should be replaced at least once a year.
Below are some general guidelines on the proper maintenance of your home’s smoke alarms.
New Smoke Alarms :
When purchasing new smoke alarms, make sure you buy the right type for the right locations in your home. Generally, a photoelectric smoke alarm will not cause problems near the kitchen area.
Make sure to read the instructions! Location, maintenance, and proper usage information is included in the instructions with a new smoke alarm.
Contact your local fire department if you have questions about purchasing new smoke alarms.
Smoke alarms should be placed on every level of the home, and preferably in every bedroom.
Consider interconnected smoke alarms (when one sounds, they all do). There are both hardwired and battery operated options available.
Every Month :
Test your alarm whether it is battery powered or hard-wired by pressing the button on your smoke alarm and keeping it pressed down. The alarm should sound.
If your alarm has no button, it is outdated and must be replaced.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on testing and maintaining your alarm.
Check the expiration date on hard-wired smoke alarms.
Twice A Year :
Change the batteries in all smoke alarms twice a year or follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for changing the battery.
Every 2 Years :
Take the cover off and clean it with a damp cloth.
Carefully vacuum the inside of the alarm.
Put the cover back and make sure the alarm is working.
Every 10 Years :
Replace your smoke alarm. Some models last as little as 5 years.
This includes battery operated and hard-wired alarms.
All smoke alarms have an expiration date.
If The Smoke Alarm Is Not Working :
Is the smoke alarm making a chirp every few minutes? Read the instructions; it may be faulty or need a new battery.
Try replacing the battery.
Check fuses and circuit-breakers, or call an electrician. There may be an electrical problem in your home.
If these steps do not help, the alarm may be defective. Replace it immediately.
When you take out the alarm battery, always replace it with another one immediately.
Fire safety also depends on every member of the household knowing what to do and having an escape plan. If you do not have an emergency plan, take a few minutes to create one today.
These tips have been brought to you by Public Safety Canada in cooperation with the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs.
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