Did you know harsh chemicals and paint can trigger a smoke alarm?
Smoke alarms are vital components of any household due to their ability to alert people of fires that have started. But they aren’t without flaws, and one of those flaws comes in the form of false alarms. Now, we’re not saying to ignore alarms when they go off just because they might be false, but if you find yourself dealing with false alarms frequently, there may be some underlying reasons. We’ve already gone over a few possible reasons for false alarms, but there are other situations that can cause false alarms to trigger. Here are more reasons explaining why a smoke alarm might go off without your intention.
Steam
Dense water vapor can simulate humidity in the eyes of a smoke detector. Sometimes, a smoke alarm will detect the steam that comes from stoves or from a hot shower. To minimize the chances of your alarms triggering, try keeping your kitchen and bathroom properly ventilated.
Chemical Smells
Did you know harsh chemicals and paint can trigger a smoke alarm? Detectors can pick up the fumes from paints and chemicals very quickly. Much like how you would handle problems with steam, try ventilating the areas in which you use paint and harsh chemicals if you don’t want your smoke detector to sound off.
Dirt & Dust
Dirt and dust might sound like concerns for pieces of furniture or carpeting, but they can also serve as catalysts for a false alarm. When you’re trying to clean your smoke detector, you need to open it very cautiously and look to see if any dirt or dust has gotten inside. A vacuum attachment could be used to get rid of any dust particles lurking inside.
Your Smoke Detector Has Low Batteries
If your smoke detector is going off, and you aren’t sure why it could be due to your detector having low battery life. Detectors that have low batteries or a poor connection usually make chirping sounds to let you know there’s a problem. This chirping sound should indicate to you that you should check on your smoke detector. Batteries should be replaced two times every year, roughly around the times that daylight saving time starts and finishes.
KEEP YOURSELF SAFE WITH ANDERSON FIRE PROTECTION, INC.
Anderson Fire Protection, Inc. has the expertise and skill to help your home or commercial property with 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.