How to Choose a Smoke Detector
Smoke detectors are an integral part of any home when it comes to safety and in many, if not all parts of North America and most parts of the world, it is required by law that there be one installed in every home and building.
When a fire breaks out, it is known that people have just a few minutes to get safely out and arrange for the fire to be extinguished. Follow some easy guidelines to help you choose a smoke detector to protect your loved ones from the threat of fire.
Instructions
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1
Strengths and Weaknesses
Each and every smoke detector is not created the same. They all come with various features and added characteristics, but the basic function of each one is to detect hazardous smoke which could mean a fire has already started or could start burning in moments. Go through the various types which are available in most home supply stores and see which one would suit your home, lifestyle and location the best. -
2
Power
There are several different ways that smoke detectors are powered. Before, only batteries could run them and they had to be replaced periodically, sometimes after a year and with more powerful batteries coming into the equation, they could last up to 10 years. Now, most smoke detectors can be installed through the electrical wiring in the house, eliminating the need for batteries, which are still present though in case of a power outage. -
3
Home
Depending on the size of your home, you will need to adjust the smoke detectors accordingly. If the house in question is large then one smoke detector may not be able to get the job done, which is why installing multiple smoke detectors in various areas is beneficial. Also, asking the installation crew to wire them all together is also a good idea so that if one smoke detector starts beeping, all of them will do the same to signal a fire. -
4
Certification
With the rise in awareness to home safety, a number of institutions are available that give their verification of such products. Look for smoke detectors that have been certified by such institutes like the Underwriters Laboratories (UL), which tests and certifies such products prior to releasing them. This is a great way to ensure that the product at hand has been tested by capable professionals and should be safe for use.
