How to Maintain Smoke Alarms
Between 30%-40% of all home fire deaths result from smoke, toxic gases and heat inhalation. The bad news is that it only takes minutes for these to kill somebody who has been trapped inside their home. That’s why it’s so important to have a good working smoke alarm system and an effective smoke detector maintenance system.
So if you’re wanting to maximise the safety of everyone in your house or building, keep reading for our tips on how to maintain smoke alarms. There are a few things you can do to help your smoke alarm systems last for a long time.
How to Maintain Smoke Alarms
Keep it Clean
The most important part to remember when learning how to maintain smoke detectors, is to check the alarm itself to ensure that there’s no dust or dirt on it. Turn off the power then stick your vacuum attachment head into the openings where the sensors are on each side of the unit and move it around from top to bottom. Replace any filters if necessary and resume vacuuming so that the sensor is clear.
Replace the Batteries of Your Smoke Alarm System
There are many reasons why it is important to replace the batteries of your smoke alarm system. One of the main reasons for this is this: when smoke alarms fail, they will not provide any warning before a fire occurs. So, replacing the batteries of your smoke detector will ensure your home is guarded against serious injuries and fatalities if there was a sudden fire in your home.
Conduct Monthly Testing of the Unit
Monthly smoke alarm testing will provide you with peace of mind in knowing that your smoke alarm system is still working.
How to Maintain Smoke Alarms with Testing at Home
- Perform monthly smoke alarm test alarms per the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Have them tested independently every six months.
- Test smoke alarms for hard wired smoke detectors monthly and smoke alarms for smoke detectors with lithium ion batteries monthly
Get Rid of Insects
Sometimes smoke alarms can attract termites, ants and other insects that will nest into smoke alarms. To get rid of insects that may be hiding inside your smoke alarm, it is best to use insect sprays around it. However, ensure you don’t spray inside it because it may damage the internal system.
Add Carbon Monoxide Detector to Your Home Also
Smoke alarms are an important part of smoke alarm maintenance. But smoke alarms alone are not enough so it is important that you also install a carbon monoxide detector. Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors work well together to create a safer home environment.
Smoke Alarm Safety Summary
It’s important to learn how to maintain smoke detectors in your house by following the manufacturer’s specific instructions and replacing batteries every six months. It is also recommended that you vacuum your smoke detector monthly, have it tested independently every 6 months by a qualified electrician north Brisbane, replace any filters if necessary, and install a carbon monoxide detector in order to create a safe home environment for yourself or loved ones.
Stay Safe with Lip Up Electrical
As with any electrical work around the home, it is always to protect yourself and your property by having a qualified electrician north Brisbane to complete any required work. To ensure your home has the right number of smoke alarms, or for professional smoke alarm servicing from a licensed residential electrician Brisbane, contact Lit Up Electrical via the online contact form or call 07 3315 0619 today!