There are various things that will be added to your housekeeping checklist when it comes to being a homeowner. Fortunately, ensuring that your smoke alarm is functioning properly only takes a few minutes out of your day, once a month. With these simple steps, your smoke alarm could last up to ten years.
If you are a fan of NBC’s award-winning television show, This Is Us, you were probably quite startled by the smoke alarm scene—when was the last time I checked that? To provide some context for those who haven’t seen it, Jack Pearson forgot to change the batteries in the smoke alarm and didn’t know his family home was on fire in the middle of the night—until it was too late.
This small yet important device can save your life in an emergency, bringing a fire to your attention so you and your family have time to get to safety. In order for these tiny devices to do their jobs, though, they need some very basic routine maintenance. As much as we would like to believe they are, electronic devices are not invincible.
Why should I check my smoke alarm?
We get it. It’s a device for the ‘just in case’ situation, so it’s easy to put out of your mind. However,
checking your smoke alarms in your home is crucial for several reasons:
1. Battery functionality: The National Building Code of Canada stipulates that smoke alarms are to be hardwired and battery-powered in new homes. The Battery acts as a backup in case of a power outage. Regularly checking the batteries ensures they are still functioning and have enough power. Weak or dead batteries can render the smoke alarm useless when you need it the most. It's important to replace batteries as needed to maintain reliable operation.
2. Maintenance and cleanliness: Over time, smoke alarms can accumulate dust, dirt, or other debris, which may interfere with their proper functioning. By checking your smoke alarms regularly, you can clean them as necessary to ensure unobstructed detection.
3. Equipment malfunctions: Like any electronic device, smoke alarms can experience malfunctions or defects. Regular checks allow you to identify any issues with the alarms, such as faulty sensors or wiring problems, and take appropriate measures to address them promptly.
Different types of alarms and their location
There are smoke alarms, carbon monoxide (CO) alarms, and alarms that combine both of them. While smoke alarms and CO alarms are designed to protect you and your home, a smoke alarm detects smoke particles associated with a fire, while a carbon monoxide alarm senses the presence of carbon monoxide gas, a byproduct of incomplete combustion. It is mandatory that there is at least one smoke alarm installed on each story (including basement) and in a location between sleeping rooms (hallway). If the home has an attached garage or if a fuel-burning appliance is installed within the home, a CO alarm shall be installed adjacent to each sleeping area.
Being proactive is always going to be beneficial when it comes to yours and your family’s safety. You never know, those few minutes you set aside to check your smoke alarm could end up being a lifesaver. For more tips and tricks about homeownership, check out more of our blogs.