Contact Us Today For Your Free Estimate!
The Area's Most Reliable Electricians Powering Homes & Businesses Since 1982

What To Know About Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Smoke Alarm

Over the past decade most towns and cities have required smoke alarms, and in some cases, combination smoke and CO units for rental properties as well as private properties that are being sold. There are a number of things you should keep in mind when you are installing and maintaining your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

Types of Smoke Detectors

  • Photoelectric smoke detectors will detect smoke but are less prone to false alarms than ionization types.
  • The Ionization type detects small particles produced by flaming fires; while photoelectric types detect larger particles from smoky, smothering fires.
  • Some detectors are available using dual technology so that the benefits of both types can be used.
  • Additionally, detectors with “voice alert” are available as an additional warning or instructional feature.

Interconnecting several detectors throughout the house helps to ensure that the alarm is heard in areas away from the hazard, and using both AC and DC power sources enables the detector to function during a power failure.

Where To Install Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

  • Smoke detectors should be installed on every level of the home, in every bedroom, and outside the bedroom area.
  • We do not recommend them in garages, kitchens, or bathrooms, where false alarms can be triggered by humidity, exhaust, or smoke from cooking.
  • CO & Smoke detectors are best on each floor of larger homes, and not next to exterior doors or open windows where fresh air could dilute the air and give a false sense of security.

How Often Should You Replace Smoke Detectors & CO Alarms?

  • Usually, 10 years is recommended for smoke detectors and 5 years for CO alarms.
  • Many combination smoke and CO alarms purchased after 2007 have built in end of life warnings that alert you of the need to replace it after 5 years.

In Need Of Quality Installation Services - Trust Reliant Electric Works

When you are looking to install or replace your smoke detector or CO alarms, it's best to call a professional. Reliant Electric Works provides top-quality services from a team of dedicated and expert technicians. Reach out to our office today to begin the process of getting a smoke and carbon monoxide alarm installed in your home.