SERVPRO: Maintenance tips for smoke alarms

6/17/2022 (Permalink)

Blog summary: The SERVPRO blog lists the maintenance tips that will ensure that smoke alarms are functional, especially when the need arises.

Maintenance tips for smoke alarms

Fires are life-changing events that can disrupt lives and cause huge economic losses. According to The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), 60% of home fire deaths occur in homes with no working smoke alarms. However, a smoke alarm is useful only when it functions well. SERVPRO, a fire damage restoration company, shares some simple maintenance tips to keep smoke alarms functioning at their optimum level.

1. Test the smoke alarm after installation

After the installation is complete, homeowners must test the detectors and demonstrate them to the family members. Identifying the sound of the alarm, discussing the steps to follow in case of an evacuation, and determining the meeting points would be the right steps. A fire drill practice is a great way to ensure the smoke alarm is followed by a methodical evacuation. Ideally, a smoke detector must be tested once every month to ensure its responsiveness.

2. Perform power tests monthly

Manually inspecting the smoke alarm at least once per month is recommended. Push the test button to confirm that the sensor is working and the alarm sound is audible and at an optimal level. Check all the smoke alarms in the house. 

3. Replace batteries annually

Schedule a yearly battery replacement to ensure that the batteries don’t die out when the smoke alarm is needed. Refer to the manufacturer’s guide to replace the batteries properly. Do not wait for the battery to die out before replacement.

4. Clean the detectors annually

A dirty smoke detector can raise false alarms. A light dusting of the smoke alarm with a dry/damp cloth is good enough to remove dust and pollutants from the outside. But an annual deep cleaning is also necessary to ensure the alarm works well. For deep cleaning, the detector can be taken off the wall, the power source removed, and the external casing taken off. A dry cloth, air compressor, or vacuum hose must be used to clean the dust, and thereafter the detector can be reassembled. No liquids or cleaners should be used lest they ruin the device.

5. Install the detectors in the right places

Although smoke detectors should be installed across the house in bedrooms, kitchens, and enclosed areas, it is important to consider their ability to function in certain conditions. For instance, a smoke detector near cooking appliances can cause false alarms. It should be placed at least 10 feet from any heat and fire sources but too close to a window, duct, or door can decrease their effectiveness. Therefore, the right location of a smoke detector is also a big factor in deciding its effectiveness.

6. Investigate false alarms

In case of frequent false alarms, homeowners must determine the causes. Is it due to a wrong location such as being too close to a gas stove? Have the batteries died out? Perhaps it needs a little cleaning? If these are not the causes, maybe the smoke alarm needs to be replaced.

Why SERVPRO?

SERVPRO of Hurst-Euless-Bedford specializes in restoring residential and commercial properties damaged by water, fire, mold, and storm. With its state-of-the-art equipment, the company’s IICRC-certified technicians efficiently and swiftly bring a damaged property back to its preloss state. SERVPRO has 1900 strategically positioned franchises all across the US and Canada that enable a swift response to an emergency of any magnitude, anywhere in the country. Offering the best services in the industry, SERVPRO’s team undergoes constant skill up-gradation and uses the latest technology and equipment to restore properties. Additionally, as the preferred restoration partner for most insurance companies, SERVPRO eases the insurance claims process for its clients. 

For fire damage restoration, contact Team Shaw of SERVPRO of Hurst-Euless-Bedford today at (817) 595-0004 or e-mail at office@SERVPROheb.com