Watch for these signs to see if you need new smoke detectors.
Smoke detectors play a heavy role in preserving the safety of people inside of a building. They can detect danger before we notice it, sometimes notifying us while we sleep. If anything goes wrong with your smoke detectors, it could be a serious problem. That’s why you need to be sure they are in top condition at all times.
Eventually, however, your smoke detectors will have to get replaced. But how do you know when it’s time? Watch for these signs to see if you need new smoke detectors.
Your Smoke Detector is Old
As smoke detectors get older, they start worsening in efficiency. The National Fire Protection Association says to us that detectors get replaced once every ten years. Since smoke detectors are essential for preserving the safety of your building and yourself, it’s better to heed their word and get your detector replaced as soon as it gets around that age.
Old smoke detectors have parts in them that will break down as time goes on, making them less efficient in the event of an emergency. It only takes one failed alarm for things to go wrong, so don’t delay in getting a new detector when the time comes.
Your Smoke Detector Starts Going Off Spontaneously
We know we just mentioned how a silent smoke detector is no good, so it may seem hypocritical to say that a detector can also be too noisy. However, if a smoke detector is too sensitive to smoke, it can give off false alarms. If this happens, it means that its sensors could be damaged.
This doesn’t necessarily mean you have to get a new detector altogether, though. You might just have to dust it off or check its connections. Dust, dirt, and loose connections can trigger false alarms. Sometimes, when smoke detectors are in kitchens, they can trigger from the smoke that is caused while you cook. For this reason, you should keep them at least 20 feet away from your stove. You should also note if you have had a recent power outage because they can impact your detectors as well. If none of these are the reason for your false alarms, that’s when you know you have to replace your smoke detectors.
KEEP YOURSELF SAFE WITH ANDERSON FIRE PROTECTION, INC.
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.