Smoke and CO Detectors: A Seasonal Safety Q&A
As we head into a new season, SESCOS wants you to be ready with smoke detectors and carbon monoxide (CO) sensors that are in top working shape. Here’s a quick pop quiz on when, how and why to replace those detectors. These tips work whether you have hardwired, wireless or a combination of sensors.
Q. When Should You Replace Hard Wired Smoke Alarm Units?
A. You should replace the hardwired and wireless units every 10 years.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, detectors last about 10 years. It’s not just a matter of the parts or wiring wearing out. Over time, dust and pollutants build up on the detector’s sensors, which can make them less sensitive to smoke and fire.
Safety experts recommend testing your detectors every month. If you’ve replaced the battery and the detector still fails to work properly, you should replace that unit even if it’s not 10 years old. There is clearly a fault in the wiring or mechanism that could fail you at the worst time.
Q. Can You Replace Only the Units That Are Old or Not Working?
A. No, you must replace all the units at once.
If you have interconnected detectors, whether hardwired or wireless, they are supposed to work together. Replacing only one or two of the units means they won’t all sound the alarm if there’s a fire. If you have an interconnected system, you’ll have to replace them all.
You can make the job a little easier by buying the same brand of detector each time. You won’t have to install new mounting rings when you replace them.
Q. Should You Use Ionization or Photoelectric Alarms?
A. The best way to protect your family and home is to use a mix of both types.
Ionization alarms can alert to you the presence of live, active flames. Photoelectric sensors will warn you about smoldering fires that are getting ready to burst into flame.
When you shop for detectors, you’re likely to hear arguments that strongly favor one type of sensor or the other. At SESCOS, we think you can never be too safe from fires. That’s why you’re better off protecting your family against both types of fire danger.
Q. What About CO Detectors?
A. They have an even shorter shelf life than smoke detectors. Most only last about five years.
Check the manufacturer’s information to figure out how long they should last. To stay safe, replace them every five to seven years.
Q. How Often Should You Test CO Detectors?
A. Test them once a month when you test your smoke detectors.
If your units have replaceable batteries, change them every six months even if the batteries are still working.
Q. What Should You Look for In a New CO Detector?
A. The technology has really advanced in the past 10 years. Look for great new features like electrochemical sensors and verbal warnings.
Most experts recommend picking a detector that has a fuel-cell electrochemical sensor. These are more sensitive and less likely to issue a false alarm. You might see other types advertised as longer-lasting, but you’re likely to sacrifice accuracy for longer shelf life.
You might also want to look for advances like voice alarms and digital sensors. Since you probably need to replace your CO detectors anyway, you may as well upgrade to these new features.
Q. Who Can You Trust to Install Your New Detectors Quickly and Safely?
You’ll fail this quiz if you said anyone but your friendly neighborhood technicians at SESCOS.
If you live in Loudoun County or the surrounding region and need to replace your smoke or CO detectors, contact SESCOS for fast, expert and professional service today.