By Austin Miranda Homes, these days, are already required to have interconnected smoke detectors in different locations; these detectors have special wiring.
Some of the frequently asked questions with regard to troubleshooting smoke alarms are these –
- Does the red wire mean it should not be touched? Will it cause an electrical shock?
- Should the third wire in smoke detectors be connected with the red wire?
- Is it okay to connect black to black and white to white?
Having a smoke detector, without a doubt, offers a lot of advantages; however, you need to make sure that it is working at all times. A lot of detectors use batteries so you need to check them regularly. Test them from time to time to ascertain that they are still properly functioning.
Other benefits of the smoke detector are –
- A quicker response to fire that can possibly spread throughout your home.
- You can quickly pinpoint the area where the smoke comes from. With this, you can contain the flames from the onset.
- Every single member of your family is alerted by the alarm. This is one of the chief goals of a smoke detector.
- Family members will have sufficient time to evacuate the property if in case the fire is already too big to contain.
Factors to Consider When Installing Smoke Detectors
The installation and maintenance of a smoke detector appears simple but there are a few information that you need to look into before setting it up in your home –
The location: Find a central spot or a room in your home that is frequently used by your family. If in case, a problem occurs, then your centrally located smoke detector will be able to quickly sense it.
Never place the alarm near a window, door, fan or vent since these can affect the efficiency of the unit.
The temperature: A smoke detector should never be installed when it is humid or warm outside of your home. This may affect the unit’s optimum function.
Rules in the maintenance of alarms: Smoke detector batteries must be replaced twice every year or, at the very least, annually. Most detectors were manufactured to emit a beep when the battery is running low but it is a good idea to habitually check and replace the batteries anyway. Also, record the exact dates that you replaced the batteries, preferably, replace them at the precise date each time.
Make sure that the batteries are working properly by keeping them free from contaminants such as dust.
Always consult a professional when installing smoke detectors: Depending on your location, you may be required to install your detectors to your home’s current electrical grid. This is easy to do if you know your way around electricity and electrical stuff. If you don’t then get in touch with an electrician. Take note that the batteries should be working in case the power goes out, this way, you will hear an alarm when a problem occurs when the power is off.
Replace smoke detectors where necessary: Each detector has a lifespan of about 5-10 years. When the maximum year is reached, it is necessary to have them replaced. After these years, the smoke detector’s effectiveness is greatly reduced. It is at this point that you will notice frequent beeping even if you have already installed fresh batteries. There may also be instances when the detector goes off for no reason at all.
These are the clues that your smoke detector unit should be replaced. Check the manufacturer or ask an electrician on how to go about with the replacement.
Now that you know these tips, you probably realize the importance of leaving smoke detector installation projects to the experts – call your local electrician now.
Useful Reference Links
4 Reasons to Hire an Electrician to Install Your Smoke Detectors
Install New Hard-Wired or Battery-Powered Smoke Alarms
The Importance of Smoke Detector Installation
DIY Hardwired Smoke Alarm – What Do You Think?
2018 How much does it cost to install smoke alarms?
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