Smoke detectors are much more than just a safety recommendation. In most parts of the country, including ours, they are legally required—and for good reason. These devices save lives, and are particularly beneficial if they are hard-wired into your home.
Hard-wired smoke detectors are not typically required in homes that were built before 1992, but come with benefits—they’re directly connected to your home’s main electrical system so that even if forget to change the detector’s batteries, they’ll work so long as your home has power.
Contact us today for professional Sharonville, OH smoke detector installation, and keep reading to learn more about how to keep your home and family safe with hard-wired smoke detectors.
Location, Location, Location
Should you put a smoke detector in your kitchen? Chances are when you’re cooking, you aren’t going to be out of the home (we hope) so no, typically you do not need a smoke detector in the kitchen. Where these devices are most needed is in every bedroom within the home, and in your home’s hallways. They should be placed high up—but no more than 12 inches from the ceiling to the top of the alarm—and away from any obstructions that may block them from sensing flames or smoke.
Legal Requirements
As mentioned above, it’s legally required to have smoke detectors installed on your property. This is particularly true if you own a rental property. As a landlord, it’s your responsibility to maintain operation smoke alarms that meet the law’s requirements at all times. As a homeowner, you have a moral duty to ensure that your family is as protected as they can be.
Focus On Safety
Another benefit of hard-wiring your smoke detectors is that they can each be interconnected. This means that when one goes off, they’ll all sound—alerting your entire family to the presence of a fire (or tenants if you are a landlord with a multi-family complex). To ensure your safety, do test your smoke alarms once a month, and be aware of the different types of smoke detectors as well.
An ionization smoke alarm is quicker to warn of flaming fires while photoelectric alarms are faster to warn of smoldering fires. It’s best to use both types throughout your home and property. To get the most out of your smoke detectors and ensure they work as they should, do not install them near windows, doors, or ducts where drafts may interfere with their functionality.
Don’t Forget Carbon Monoxide Detectors, Either
If you have any gas-powered appliances—a furnace, pellet stove, propane cooktop—then there is the potential for a carbon monoxide leak in your home. This gas is undetectable to the naked eye, and has no odor or taste. Yet, it can be extremely dangerous. When you have your smoke detectors hard-wired, invest as well in a professionally installed carbon monoxide detector.
Whether you are a homeowner, business owner or landlord in the greater Cincinnati area, Servall Electric Company can help you with your electrical needs. Contact us today and learn how we are “Creating Sustainability through Bright Ideas!”
