Smoke and CO Detectors

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide detectors are essential safety devices every home should have. These detectors can make a difference in saving lives and preventing property damage from fires or CO poisoning. However, these devices can malfunction if not properly maintained or installed. Therefore, it is crucial to know how to maintain and/or install them correctly.

Keep Your Home and Family Safe

It can be challenging to maintain smoke and carbon monoxide detectors correctly, especially if you lack experience or knowledge. In some cases, it is best to contact a professional for proper installation or maintenance. Our technicians can perform routine maintenance checks and ensure your detectors are working correctly.

Things to Consider with Smoke and CO Detectors

Test Your Detectors Monthly
Testing your detectors is essential to ensure they are working correctly. Test your detectors by pressing the “test” button on the device. If the detector beeps, it is working correctly. If not, replace it immediately. It is also advisable to replace the batteries during the test as a routine to ensure they have enough power.
Clean the Detectors
Dust accumulation on the detectors can lead to malfunctions of smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. It is essential to clean the detectors regularly with a vacuum cleaner. Ensure you use the soft brush attachment to avoid damaging the device. Avoid using water or other liquid cleaners, which can damage the detector.
Replace the Detectors Every Ten Years
Smoke and CO detectors have a lifespan of ten years only. After this time, the detector’s sensors can become less sensitive or less responsive to detecting these dangerous gases. Make sure to replace your detectors after ten years, even if they appear to be working correctly.
Proper Location
Proper location placement is also essential for a detector’s correct functioning. It is best to install a smoke detector ceiling-mounted bedrooms, hallways, living room, and kitchen. Install carbon monoxide detectors near your furnace, hot water heater, gas stove, and attached garage. Remember, it is essential to place them high on the ceiling, away from doors leading to hallways or staircases.