If you’re a homeowner, and especially if you have a family, you do a lot of checking. You check your thermostat, your furnace, your car’s oil and gas, your credit card and bank balances, what groceries you need to buy each week — the list goes on. And you check up on your kids, which can lead to a lot of bickering, but it’s worth it to keep them safe.
But how often do you check your smoke detectors? They’re like guardian angels of safety, but unlike angels, they’re not immortal, and you should never take them for granted. Batteries can conk out, and other parts can get worn out over time. Detectors typically last ten years, and here’s how to maintain yours at optimum efficiency.
You should consult your detector’s manual to see how often checking should be done. We recommend putting a reminder in your cell phone or computer that will “ping” you when the time comes. Also, any time you pass by your detector, take a quick look to make sure the alarm indicator is on. And keep it clean! A Swiffer duster is a great way to keep the detector free of dust and bugs that could interfere with proper functioning.
If your detector runs on batteries, check them every month and replace if any signs of corrosion appear. If you use the hard-wired kind, you still need to check the backup batteries. But if your detector makes a canary-like chirping sound, it’s time to get on the stick and change the batteries right away, because they’re probably defective.
A detector can give off false alarms, so keep yours away from the kitchen, because steam and smoke from cooking can set them off. We once even had a customer who showered with the bathroom door open, and the steam traveled to the detector and set it off! Better to shut the bathroom door and open a window if you have one in there.
Always read the manufacturer’s instructions on how to test your detector.
A smoke detector is a vital part of any home security system. Home security protects against human crimes, and smoke detectors protect against nature’s dangers!
Follow these steps and you’ll sleep better knowing your home is safe!