There is no question that having a smoke and carbon monoxide detector can save your life in the event of an emergency. But how do you know where to place a carbon monoxide detector and what to do when you hear the carbon monoxide detector beeping?
Let’s review some helpful tips to ensure your smoke alarm and carbon monoxide alarms are working properly.
Fire and carbon monoxide threats
A fire and carbon monoxide are the two biggest threats to home safety. But, unlike a fire that can easily be detected by smoke and flames, carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless, making it almost impossible to detect without carbon monoxide alarms. Carbon monoxide is produced by appliances like furnaces, fireplaces, and water heaters that use gas as a fuel source. Vehicles located in attached garages can also pose a risk if the vehicle is left running without proper ventilation.
Smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector features
The best way to avoid serious injury or death from fire or carbon monoxide is to install alarms and check them regularly. Alarms are more sophisticated today – they offer much better detection and notification of danger. The most common features of modern smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors include:
- Photoelectric and Ionization Sensors: These sensors detect particles in the air created by fire or burning material such as upholstery, burning paper, or grease fires. It’s recommended to use a smoke alarm that features both of these sensor options for the highest level of detection.
- Voice notification: We’ve all seen videos of people sleeping through smoke alarms. Unfortunately, this is a harsh reality often leads to shortened escape times. Having a detector with voice notification increases the chances of escaping safely. These alarms also feature voice indications of the location and type of threat so you can provide the most accurate information to emergency personnel.
- Device Linkage: Fire and carbon monoxide can spread quickly. Linking your alarm devices can let you know there is a problem no matter where you are in your home.
- Home Management Systems: These systems offer enhanced safety features such as connecting to mobile devices and third-party monitoring services to shorten response time.
- Silencing Feature: We’ve all set off the smoke alarm with burnt toast or scorched muffins. The silence feature mutes the alarm for a brief period of time while you literally clear the air.
- Status Screen: You want to know that your alarms are working efficiently at all times. A status screen allows you to check battery levels and device operation so you’re confident that you’re protected. Make sure your carbon monoxide detector displays current levels so you can know well in advance if there is a health risk.
Test your alarms
It’s recommended to test your alarms every month and replace batteries at least twice a year. Use the changing of clocks as your reminder to replace your smoke and carbon monoxide detector batteries.
Smoke detector and Carbon monoxide detector placement and installation
One of the biggest questions homeowners have is where should a carbon monoxide detector be placed? Carbon monoxide detector placement should be done on each floor of the home including:
- Outside of sleeping areas
- Stairwells
- Living areas
- Hallways
This will ensure your home has adequate coverage.
Replacing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Like any home appliance, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors have a lifespan and should be replaced based on the manufacturers’ guidelines.
Simply remove the device from the wall or ceiling, release the battery cover and install new batteries. Remember to check for dust or debris which may affect operation. Once you have installed the unit again, press the test button to ensure your alarm is working properly.
Contact Us
Now that you know all about the importance of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, it’s time to ensure that your alarms are running properly. If you need help with smoke and carbon monoxide detector installation, contact the team at Ontime Electric. They can help you protect your home with professionally installed smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms.
Childproofing should be performed by a licensed, insured, accredited and qualified electrician to prevent injuries and accidents. Make sure that you hire a professional that you trust.