Smoke alarms are among the most effective safety devices for your home and family, alerting you to smoke or fire and the need to take immediate action. Smoke alarms contain both electrical wiring and batteries, and they are designed to detect the presence of smoke in the air. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the risk of dying in a house fire is cut in half for people who live in homes with working smoke alarms. Learn more about these essential safety devices below.

What Are the Different Types?

There are two main types of smoke alarms on the market today. Ionization-type alarms have two electrodes with a trace amount of radioactive material in a chamber between them. When smoke enters this chamber, it reacts with the radioactive substance and triggers an alarm. The other popular alarm choice is photoelectric. Photoelectric smoke alarms emit LED light, and when a built-in sensor identifies a disruption in that light, it sets off an alarm.

How Can You Test It?

Always follow the smoke alarm manufacturer's recommendation for maintenance and testing. In most cases, you should aim to test your alarms at least once a month; simply press the test button to ensure the unit is working properly. Educate everyone in the home about what the alarm sounds like and what they should do if it goes off. Most smoke alarm batteries need to be replaced every 10 years. Check the physical connections of the smoke alarm as well; if the electrical wiring is loose, or frayed, consult an electrician or consider purchasing a new unit.

Where Should You Install It?

Ideally, you should have smoke alarms throughout your home. This includes every bedroom, hallways, and on every floor of the home, including the basement and attic. Remember that this is an investment in the safety of your home and family. If you need help installing the electrical wiring or other components of the alarm, contact an electrician; you want to be absolutely certain everything is hooked up as it should be.

When you need assistance with a smoke alarm, RM Electrical is here for you. Since 2008, they have been serving St. Clair, Monroe, and Madison counties in Illinois. Their electricians offer electrical wiring installation, design, and repair, as well as rewiring and breaker box service. Call (618) 939-0422 or visit them online to schedule a service or to request an estimate.