The best smoke detector
Smoke detectors are a necessity in every home. Fire statistics show that having a detector half the risk of dying in a fire. So adding a twenty-dollar item can give you a 50% better chance of surviving a fire in your home. Detectors have become commonplace in most homes. It is known that three-quarters of homes in the United States have at least one detector. About two-thirds of fires occur in homes without a smoke detector, but it is understandable to have at least one installed.
Ionization vs. photoelectric smoke detector
The two most common smart smoke detectors are ionizing and photoelectric. These two detectors respond differently depending on the type of fire. An ionization detector is usually more responsive to a burning type of fire when a photoelectric work best with a smoldering type of fire. Home-type fires are actually smoke from the fire so any photoelectric is often the best choice. Since it is never known which type of fire provides the best protection, it is important to include both types for complete protection.
Smoke detector installation
The best protection is to install smoking alarms on every level of the house including the basement. Smoking alarms should be placed near the sleeping area. A smoldering fire can kill you when you sleep so a smoke detector located near your sleeping area is the best type of protection.
Smoke alarms mounted on walls or ceilings (remember, smoke is rising). Ceiling mounted alarms should be installed at least four inches away from the nearest wall; Wall-mounted alarms should be installed four to 12 inches away from the ceiling.
If you have made ceilings, install the alarm near the highest point of the ceiling.
Do not install smoking alarms near windows, doors, or ducts where drafts may interfere with their activities.
Always follow the manufacturer's installation instructions.
Smoke alarm maintenance
Smoking alarms were present in 23% of home fire deaths but no sound was heard. It is important not only to install them but also to make sure that they are working properly. Most manufacturers recommend weekly testing but if you are not willing to do it then monthly should be the minimum. You can test your smart smoke detector by pressing a button, but it is only testing the battery. You can purchase a smoke detector experimental aerosol that will mimic smoke. Professionals use it to test large alarm systems and it's always a good idea to make sure you hear smoke alarms in all parts of your home if your smart smoke detector catches a real fire. The following tips are important for maintaining your system:
Do not attempt to test smoking alarms with any aerosol spray other than those specially produced for that purpose. Other types of sprays contain ingredients that will stick to the sensor and make the device less reliable in the future.
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