This has been reviewed and updated on 03/11/2022.

If you own a residential or commercial property, installing a top-notch fire system is essential. Every moment of the day, responsive fire alarms and smoke detectors help alert about danger and save lives. If you're not sure where to start, the knowledgeable team at CenturyLink in Monroe, LA, can help. They can answer all your questions about these systems, whether you're updating an old structure or designing a new building in North Louisiana. Smoke detectors are an important part of your life safety system. Here are some tips for installing and maintaining smoke detectors on your property.

Installing Smoke Detectors

For maximum safety, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends that homeowners install smoke detectors inside each bedroom, outside every sleeping area, and on every level of the house, including in the basement. Larger homes may need two or more smoke detectors installed on every level. The recommendations for commercial properties vary, depending on the industry.

Every situation is unique, so leave it to the specialists at CenturyLink to determine the optimal setup for smoke detectors in your home or business. Most of their systems are hard-wired to be in constant communication, meaning that if one detector identifies danger, all of them will go off to alert everyone in the area. These are also connected to CenturyLink's central monitoring station to alert firefighters and protect your pets and property if you're away. If a hard-wired connection isn't right for your situation, they also offer battery-powered units. You can also purchase add-ons for carbon monoxide, heat, and water detection.

Maintaining Smoke Detectors

Properly inspecting and maintaining your smoke detectors is crucial for optimizing safety and performance. Each fire system requires specific care, but there are a few steps you should regularly take, regardless of your setup. First, test each individual unit monthly by pressing the test button. Semiannually, you should clean each detector and ensure it remains unobstructed. Always replace the system's batteries as recommended by the unit's manufacturer and the NFPA. In most cases, this means changing the battery every year, but some only need to be replaced every ten years. The ten-year mark is also the end of a standard unit's lifetime, so your detectors should be replaced fully at this point. If you're not sure how old a building's current system is, the team at CenturyLink will be more than happy to inspect it.

If you want to learn more about responsive and comprehensive life safety systems, turn to the friendly technicians at CenturyLink. Based in Monroe, LA, they have been offering comprehensive life safety and fire systems for both residential and commercial property owners since 1997. Check out their website to explore all the services they provide, from video monitoring to mass notification systems, and then call (800) 256-3352 to discuss your specific needs with someone on their team.

Services are available in select areas in Monroe, LA, only. Equipment pictured may vary. CenturyLink may change, cancel, or substitute offers and services, or vary them by service area, at its sole discretion without notice. Terms and conditions apply; contact CenturyLink for details. Features may vary; interfacing with certain third-party devices may not be available. Restrictions apply. ©2022 CenturyLink. All Rights Reserved.