A smoke detector or smoke alarm is a device that detects smoke and issues an alarm to alert nearby people of the threat of a potential fire. A working and good condition detector gives users an early warning of a fire, making their escape more likely and successful.
The primary function of a smoke detector is to identify the presence of a fire. The way it senses the presence of fire largely depends on the type of detector it is. There are two types of smoke detectors : The photoelectric and The ionization model. Photoelectric smoke alarms are generally more responsive to fires that begin with a long period of smoldering (called “smoldering fires”). However, Ionization smoke alarms are generally more responsive to flaming fires.
Both ionization and photoelectric smoke detectors have particular advantages which make them relatively effective in their own specific areas. Thankfully, there are also combination models that apply both ionization and photoelectric methods in detecting smoke.
Verify the functions of your smoke detector
Generally speaking, smoke detectors do not last forever. Just like any other electrical device, they age over time and can develop certain mechanical problems. This suggests that it is a great idea to replace your device every ten years to ensure that you have an effective and reliable source of fire detector in the house.
Many experts agree that you should always acquire new detectors even if your old models seem to be in a good working condition.
How do you test your smoke alarms?
Before we proceed further, it’s important to note that you are highly discouraged from using the test button as it may not give sufficient results. This is because it does not examine the smoke sensor in your unit, which can somehow be ineffective even if the horn sounds. It is recommended that you should seek professional inspection from one of our qualified electricians from Darwin Electrician.
- Make sure that you’ve notified every member of your household that you’ll be conducting a smoke alarm test.Test your smoke alarm by holding down the test button until you hear a loud alert tone, then release. If your alarm produces a sound, then you know that it can do the same in real life situations as well. If it fails to respond, then you’ll know the unit is defective. You can change the batteries and conduct the test once more. If it does not give positive feedback, you’ll have to replace it immediately.
- Turn off the alarm and vacuum the dust off your smoke alarm. Vacuum around your smoke alarm vents with a soft brush attachment. This will remove a build-up of dust and cobwebs.
- Keeping your smoke alarm free of particles to help reduce false alarms and ensure smoke can easily reach the internal sensor.
- Replace your 9 volt battery each year. All smoke alarms – including mains powered alarms – have batteries. If your alarm has a 9 volt user-replaceable battery, you will need to replace the battery each year.
Nonetheless, it is always advised that you should consult our highly-trained electricians from Darwin Electrician to inspect and test your smoke alarm for you.
We can replace, fix and install smoke alarms around your home in crucial locations. Our qualified technicians have a vast knowledge in smoke alarm systems and can place them according to the rules and regulations set out by the NT government to completely protect your family.
Speak to our friendly staff today on 0418 855 550 for more information about smoke alarms!
