Every home should be properly equipped with both carbon monoxide and smoke detector devices. In the event a hazard, such as a fire or carbon monoxide leak takes place, these devices can help save the lives of individuals inside the household.
Detector alarms will identify a hazard is present much quicker than a human is able to. Once the hazard is identified, the alarms will loudly beep to notify individuals in the home that danger is present. Anyone inside should know to leave immediately, as it is not safe to remain inside.
Besides the basics, there are several important tips home owners should know about carbon monoxide and smoke detector devices. Continue reading to discover important tips you may not have known about smoke detector and carbon monoxide devices.
Smoke Detectors – 2 Types – Ionization and Photoelectric
When selecting a smoke detector device for your home, it is important to know that there are two different types of devices you can choose: ionization and photoelectric. Both devices will activate in the presence of smoke.
What’s the difference?
Photoelectric detectors will detect smoldering fires sooner than ionization detectors, whereas ionization detectors will react sooner to flames. Note: mixing and matching photoelectric and ionization detectors throughout the home is fine.
Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide can be produced by any fuel-burning device. Three common sources are your home’s furnace, dryer vent in drying machine, and fireplace / chimney. It is important to have these appliances regularly serviced and cleaned by a professional to help prevent a CO leak that could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
Carbon monoxide is odorless and tasteless, so a carbon monoxide detector is the only way to know there’s an issue. Carbon monoxide devices come in several varieties, including plug-in, battery operated, and hardwired.
Where to Place Devices
The location you place smoke detector and carbon monoxide devices is highly important to your safety. Here are some general best practices for determining the location for devices in your home:
- Place smoke detectors in the bedrooms
- Install a smoke and carbon monoxide detector just outside the bedrooms in the hallway
- Install a smoke and carbon monoxide detector on every level, including the basement, first floor, second floor, and attic
Pay Attention to Manufacturer Date
It’s important to know how old a smoke detector device is. Manufacturers label the back of each device with a date. Detectors older than 10 years should be replaced, regardless of whether they appear to still be working.
How to Test Devices
Testing your carbon monoxide and smoke detector devices is easy, and should be done at least once a month. To test devices, simply press the button and wait a second or two. The device should make a loud beeping and alarm sound. If you do not hear the device, or the sound is faint, you should replace the battery. You may also be due for a new device. This should be done ASAP in order to protect the safety of the individuals living in your home.
At John Lock Air Conditioning and Heating, we want to ensure your home is comfortable, but more importantly safe. People often forget to check and test their carbon monoxide and smoke detector devices. We hope these tips gave you a better understanding of where devices should be located, how often to test them, and how you know it’s time to replace your device. For further information, and to learn more about our extensive offering of home comfort services, please visit our website, or contact us today at 716-894-6400.
Source: https://www.thisoldhouse.com/home-safety/23068676/understanding-smoke-and-carbon-monoxide-detectors
