Here are some factors that could cause your smoke detectors to go off unexpectedly.
Smoke detectors are highly accessible tools that help people stay safe against fires. Sometimes, however, smoke detectors can go off, and you may not know what’s causing the alarm. While it might seem random, there are reasons why your detector may go off when you don’t expect it. Here are some factors that could cause your smoke detectors to go off unexpectedly.
Placement of Your Fire Alarm
If you face an abundance of false alarms from your smoke detectors, it could have something to do with where they are installed. If you install them in areas that produce great amounts of steam and smoke, alarms are likely going to sound off. Areas of your house that might produce a lot of steam or smoke include your showers and stoves. You might even have a hyper-sensitive smoke detector that would pick up the smoke from a campfire.
Take a moment to determine if there is any chance your smoke detectors could be detecting smoke from areas like the ones mentioned above. If so, you’ll want to move them far enough away from those places to avoid future false alarms. Just be sure you have them close enough to detect actual problems. Remember, smoke detectors are supposed to be sensitive, so don’t put it too far where it will be unable to warn you of impending danger.
Clean Dust & Bugs to Minimize False Alarms
Bugs and dirt can cause problems for your smoke detectors. Fortunately, you can remove them with ease. Even just a little dust or any movement from an insect that graces your detector with its presence could be enough to sound off an alarm.
Dust reflects particles of light in a similar manner to how smoke does. This is how dust causes false alarms. Removing the outer casing is recommended for cleaning purposes. Remove whatever dirt or debris you find. A vacuum attachment is recommended for smaller pieces of dirt, and be sure to be delicate because you don’t want to damage your detector’s sensors.
Bugs sometimes turn smoke detectors into their own little homes. If insects start affecting your smoke detectors, consider using a pest control spray around your alarms to keep them away. Just be sure you don’t spray the detector directly because you can damage the electronics. For this reason, keep a safe distance away before using your pest control spray.
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Anderson Fire Protection, Inc. has the expertise and skill to help your home or commercial property for all your fire protection needs. We have been working in the Maryland, Northern Virginia, Southern Pennsylvania, and Washington, D.C. areas for over 25 years. We are known for our top-notch customer service and high-quality results. If you are ready for fantastic fire prevention and protection services, from fire sprinkler installation to fire alarm design and to consult, give us a call at (410) 796-4915 or visit us online.