Smoke Alarms: Maintaining Performance

12/8/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage is one of the worst fears of many homeowners because of the risk to their property and the potential loss of life.

Maintaining The Effectiveness Of Smoke Detectors

A smoke alarm may be the last defense you have to ensure that you and your family are safe in a disaster. Therefore, it is vital that all your alarms are correctly installed and regularly tested. If you are not confident in your ability to install these items, you can call a fire remediation specialist in the Virginia Gardens, FL, area who may be able to assist you. Beyond installation, you will want to ensure that you are maintaining you alarms appropriately. Depending on your chosen detectors, the maintenance schedule can vary.

1. Nine-Volt Battery Powered Detectors

As an affordable smoke detector option, nine-volt powered detectors will require monthly inspections and tests, you should make sure that the alarm is clean and free of debris, and you should test the signal by pressing the test button. Also, you should replace the batteries annually to ensure proper functionality. Additionally, it is recommended that you replace these alarms every 10 years.

2. Long-Life Alarms

A long-life smoke alarm typically refers to detectors that use a 10-year lithium battery. As these batteries should not be replaced, it is recommended that the entire unit is replaced in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines. However, you should test the alarm and ensure it is free of cobwebs and dust at least once per month.

3. Hardwired Fire Signals

Hardwired fire signals are connected directly into your homes electrical system, which provides an added sense of security because the units can communicate with each other, sounding alarms throughout the residence. This type of alarm should be tested monthly and replaced every 10 years. Additionally, the battery backup should be replaced annually.

Fire damage is one of the worst fears of many homeowners because of the risk to their property and the potential loss of life. A smoke alarm provides reassurance because it can alert and thereby protect a home’s inhabitants. However, depending on the type of alarm, each signal requires a certain amount of upkeep to maintain performance.