Did your smoke detector start chirping at 2 a.m.? Late-night beeps might be your only reminder that something meant to protect you is long overdue for replacement. Smoke detectors are treated as set-it-and-forget-it devices, but they have a shelf life. If yours haven’t been updated in a while, or if you’re not sure how old they are, it may be time to consider smoke detector replacement. Mr. Electric is here to help. We offer dependable smoke detector installation in Aurora, Colorado, and the surrounding area. Keep reading to find out how our team can help protect your home and your loved ones.
The NFPA recommends replacing all smoke detectors every 10 years because the sensors inside the device degrade, even if the test button still makes a sound. Just because your detector beeps when you push the button doesn’t mean it would go off in a real emergency. Dust buildup, changes in humidity, and indoor heating systems can all affect how your alarm performs. If your home is more than 10 years old and the detectors haven’t been changed, you’re probably past due for smoke detector replacement.
Aside from age, there are several warning signs that your smoke detector may need replacement:
There are two types of smoke detectors available on the market. Ionization detectors respond faster to flaming fires, and photoelectric detectors detect smoldering fires. Many modern detectors combine both technologies for better coverage. You can also find models with built-in carbon monoxide sensors, which is a smart upgrade if you have any gas appliances or an attached garage. Basic models can be battery-operated and easy to install, but hardwired detectors offer more reliability, especially when installed by a professional. An electrician in Aurora can make sure your hardwired detectors are installed correctly, connected to the right circuits, and compliant with building codes.
You might think replacing a smoke alarm is a simple DIY job, and sometimes it is, but if your home has hardwired alarms or if you're not sure whether you're dealing with a 120V circuit or a battery backup system, the safest move is to call a professional. An experienced electrician can:
NFPA guidelines recommend the following placement for optimal protection:
If your home has large rooms, vaulted ceilings, or separate wings, you may need additional detectors. It’s important to make sure that no matter where a fire starts, someone in the home hears the alarm in time to act. An electrician in Aurora can walk through your home and help determine the best locations for smoke detector installation, especially if you’ve made changes to your floor plan or added living space.
Even when detectors are installed correctly, problems can arise from poor maintenance or simple oversight. Here are a few things to avoid:
If you’ve been meaning to get around to checking your alarms, take this as your sign. Your family deserves a home that’s beautiful and safe. Whether you’re replacing outdated detectors, upgrading to newer models, or installing alarms in rooms that don’t have them, Mr. Electric is here to help. We offer smoke detector installation in Aurora, Colorado, and enjoy giving homeowners confidence that everything is wired correctly and up to code. Call today to schedule your smoke detector replacement, and rest knowing that your home will be protected.