Smoke alarms can save your life. In order for them to perform their critical function, you need to keep them in good working order. That means not only changing the batteries once a year, but also replacing the whole unit every so often. Let's take a look at how often you should replace home smoke detectors to keep yourself and your family safe.
As a rule of thumb, smoke detectors are usually good for about 10 years after their date of manufacture. The date of manufacture is usually printed on the back of the alarm.
If you are not sure how old your smoke detectors are, take a look at them right now. If they are more than 10 years old, you need to replace them to ensure they will warn you in the event of a fire.
If your detectors are less than 10 years old, don't forget to put them back on the ceilings or walls after you check their age.
Even if your smoke detectors are less than 10 years old, there are some situations in which it is a good idea to replace them. Everyone should test their smoke detectors once a month. If the alarm does not sound when you push the button to test it, then the unit is faulty and you should replace it as soon as possible. Smoke alarms make a chirping sound to let you know when you should replace the batteries. If the alarm continues to chirp even after you have inserted new batteries, you should replace it as it is likely to be faulty.
If you cannot work out how to stop smoke alarm from chirping, do not resolve to ignore the noise or remove your detector from its position on the ceiling or wall. Instead, take action today to replace the batteries or the whole unit to keep your family safe.
Hardwired smoke detectors need to be replaced just as often as alarms that are not hardwired. Replacing a hardwired smoke alarm is no harder than replacing a light fixture, so if you are confident in your DIY skills you can do it yourself. However, it is important not to overestimate your ability, as an improperly installed smoke detector could cost you your life.
Another option for replacing hardwired smoke detectors is to call in a Greenville Electrician. These experts can quickly and efficiently replace your hardwired smoke detectors and test them to ensure they will protect you in the event of a fire. This is a good option if you do not have experience of working with electrical circuits or if the smoke detectors are installed in locations that you cannot easily reach without compromising your safety.
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, 60 percent of home fire deaths occur in homes that do not have working smoke alarms. Your risk of dying in a home fire halves if your smoke alarms work properly.
Do not put off checking your smoke detectors. Go and check their dates right now to find out whether they are more than 10 years old. If they are older than 10 years, or you have noticed them not working properly, replace your smoke detectors right away to stay safe in your home.
Ian Ramirez is a Licensed Master Electrician with more than 20 years of experience with Residential and Commercial electrical projects. Contact Ian directly at 864.834.9955 or Click Here to Schedule Electrical Service for Greenville & Upstate SC customers. Upstate Electrical Solutions is a member of the Better Business Bureau. Check out our 5-Star reviews on Google, Facebook and Yelp. Our reliable service comes with upfront pricing and a 100% Money Back Guarantee.
