Essential Factors To Consider When Choosing A Smoke Detector: A Guide from A Professional Electrician | Conway, SC

9/8/2022

Did you know that three out of five home fire deaths in the United States were caused by fires in houses without a smoke alarm? Regardless of their importance, some homeowners still take these devices for granted. In fact, at least 16 million households in the United States do not have a properly functioning smoke alarm.

If your home in Conway, SC, is not fitted with a smoke alarm or has a malfunctioning device, you need an electrician to help you properly install a smoke detector. But before fitting one, you’ve to select one that you can rely on and ensure to keep it in excellent working condition.

On the brighter side, smoke alarms are affordable, and maintenance is relatively easy. Continue reading to know the type of smoke alarm right for you and your family.

Type

There are several types of smoke detectors you can choose from today, depending on the sensors used. The most common ones are photoelectric, dual, and ionization. These smoke detectors vary based on their speed of detecting fires. For instance, ionization smoke detectors quickly detect small particles commonly found in fast and flaming fires.

If you are looking for a smoke detector for your kitchen, you can call an electrician who’ll assist you in installing the photoelectric one, which is less likely to give false alarms. It detects large particles and is best for detecting smoldering fires.

Meanwhile, dual smoke detectors are highly recommended because they utilize both ionization and photoelectric technology. Dual smoke detectors detect small and large fires, providing homeowners with maximal protection in the event of a fire.

Like any other devices on the market, smoke detectors also have cons. For example, if you go for the ionization smoke detector, you’ll have to install it far from steam and burnt food to avoid fake alarms. Also, the dual ones tend to be very expensive.

Battery Life

A smoke detector without battery power is useless. When purchasing it, it’s essential to check its battery life. The hardwired smoke detector comes with an in-built backup battery; therefore, you can continue using the device even when power is out. The backup batteries can either be sealed or removable. The sealed batteries are built to last even 10 years, after which they become useless. On the other hand, the removable ones have to be charged after approximately two years.

Meanwhile, some smoke detectors use rechargeable batteries. With these, you have to recharge after every six to 12 months. Despite the hardwired smoke detectors being highly recommended for homeowners in Conway, SC, they tend to utilize a lot of power. In case of any issues with your electric wiring, they are affected since the electricians connect them directly to electricity.

Functionality

Apart from serving the primary purpose of protecting homeowners from fire, some fire detectors have additional features. To make good use of your money, you can purchase one that has additional advantages. For instance, some can also function as heat and carbon monoxide detectors. In addition, some even act as night lights.

However, before you start conjuring other additional features when choosing smoke detectors, you must remember that the main aim of a smoke detector alarm is to protect you from fires.

Smart Features

When choosing smoke detectors for your home, you might consider ones with unique features. Modern technology has made it possible to have smoke detectors that can be controlled using mobile applications. In case of a fire, they send you an alert to your phone even when you are not at home. They even alert you if the battery is low.

In addition, some of these smart smoke alarms are integrated with your home security system such that if they go off, the doors automatically open for quick escapes.

Ease of Installation

If you are trying to avoid the costs of hiring an electrician, you might consider the battery-powered smoke detector. It is easy to install and manage it independently, avoiding installation costs.

On the other hand, hard-wired smoke detectors are more complicated to install, and you need a qualified electrician for your safety and reliable operation.

Cost

When buying any commodity or appliance, you must consider whether it’s within your budget. You can easily find a smoke detector at a relatively affordable cost. However, you might consider spending a little more if you want one using both technologies or photoelectric.

Similarly, you may have to dig deeper into your pockets if you need smart smoke detectors or those that include carbon dioxide alarms. In short, the more additional features, the higher the price.

Maintenance

All smoke detectors require maintenance; however, the amount varies. It is highly recommended that your electrician test your smoke detector every month.

In the case of battery-powered smoke detectors, you should replace your battery often, which is easier in some models than others. Most smoke detectors last an average of seven years.

Number of Alarms

Every room in the home requires a fire alarm. Depending on the size of your home, the electricians may ask for different numbers of smoke detectors during installation.

Homeowners should also consider their number of rooms when installing and purchasing smoke detectors. To avoid false alarms, electricians avoid mounting smoke detectors too close to ceiling fans or cooking appliances.

Get Your Smoke Detector Today From Mister Sparky of Myrtle Beach

Installing a smoke detector helps keep your loved ones and property in Conway, SC, safe in the event of a fire. If you need help with your smoke detectors, contact us at Mister Sparky of Myrtle Beach. We have licensed and insured electricians who’ll help wire and install your smoke alarms.

Our company also offers electrical-related services such as code compliance, lighting, electrical repairs, and generator installation. Call us to set up an appointment today.

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