Smoke and fire alarms are some of the most important safety features in your home or commercial property, but they can only keep you safe if they are properly maintained. Failing to regularly test your smoke and fire alarms puts your family, employees, and customers at risk if a fire goes undetected.

Protecting the Rochester, NY, community for over 30 years, Action Security & Communications is a trusted fire alarm and security system installation company. These experts offer tips you can use to ensure your smoke and fire alarms continue operating effectively.

3 Tips for Smoke & Fire Alarm Maintenance

1. Inspect

Contaminants, such as dirt and dust, can cause problems with smoke detectors. Additionally, your commercial fire protection equipment can also have issues operating due to purposeful vandalism or accidental problems caused by remodeling and improper maintenance procedures. Inspect your alarms regularly for any visible signs of damage or buildup of dirt and dust.

In the commercial setting, experienced professionals can be contracted to handle regular inspections. Since they have the training and understanding on proper maintenance techniques, they’ll help you keep your system in good condition, thus reducing unexpected expenses for costly fire alarms or emergency repairs.

2. Test

The most important tip to ensure your smoke detector is working properly is to test it regularly. This can be done quickly and easily, taking less than a few minutes. Simply press the test button and hold it until the alarm chirps. If the alarm is battery-powered and doesn’t go off, replace the battery, and test it again. Make this testing process a part of your monthly routine. Pencil it into your calendar each month, do it the same time you’re replacing your home’s air filter, or check when you’re walking your commercial property with your maintenance team.

3. Replace

Your smoke detector is only good for 10 years before it requires replacement. High-end detectors will notify you when they’ve reached their expiration date with an ‘end-of-life’ chirping sound. Unfortunately, other detectors don’t provide any warning and simply cease operating unnoticed.

When you install a new detector, stick a piece of tape on the back and note the installation date. Then, replace the unit 10 years from this date. Commercial fire alarm equipment is good for 10 to 20 years, depending on the product, but utilizing a professional to assist with inspections can help you keep track of when the replacements should be made.

With these tips in mind, you’re armed with the understanding and knowledge to ensure the safety of your family, employees, or customers. Is it time for you to replace your fire and smoke alarm monitoring system? Give the experts at Action Security & Communications a call at (585) 232-1410 to set up an installation appointment. You can also visit the website to learn more about the products and services offered, including intercom systems, security systems, and burglar alarms.