In addition to installing a CO detector, you should also request smoke detector services for your Riverview, FL home. House fires are all too common—there are up to 3,000 deaths and 15,000 injuries each year, according to the U.S. Fire Association. To mitigate this risk, state and local laws require smoke detectors to be installed in every home and workplace. Generally, there must be a detector near every bedroom, but some areas may mandate them in hallways and stairways as well. Once installed, don't forget to schedule a replacement every ten years for maximum peace of mind.

Our team is glad to fill you in on the different types of smoke detectors and how they operate. While they serve the same crucial purpose, some units will function a little differently. Here are the basics on the two UL-certified smoke detectors:

• Photoelectric: Photoelectric detectors go off when smoke enters the room and interrupts light's ability to reach an internal photocell. This type of detector is better able to sense a smoldering fire, even if it hasn't reached the ceiling. They rarely trigger false alarms but do not have a battery failure alarm.
• Ionization: Ionization detectors have a continuous current that flows between two electrodes. In the presence of smoke, the current is disrupted and sets off an alarm. However, these detectors tend to trigger if it detects harmless steam as well. While they may be prone to false alarms, they provide quicker response times, battery failure alarms, and a lower cost overall.

The work isn't done once a smoke detector is installed! Homeowners should take several precautions to maintain their detector and ensure it can quickly sense a fire. The team at Mr. Electric of Riverview can offer you a slew of tips for keeping your unit in proper working order. Be sure to follow these smoke detector guidelines:

• Install at least one smoke detector on every floor of the house or building
• Test alarms every six months or at least once a year
• Have a battery-powered backup in each smoke detector (NOT rechargeable batteries)
• Avoid installing detectors near drafty windows or doors
• Center smoke detectors on the ceiling at least six inches from the wall
• Install wall units at least a foot below the ceiling
• Put smoke detectors near bedrooms, hallways, and staircases
• Lightly dust or vacuum the unit at least once a year
• Never remove the unit from the wall to stop a false alarm
• Don't take out the batteries unless you're changing them
• Store a fire blanket in your home
• Keep a fire extinguisher (or two) in an easily accessible location
• Create an emergency exit plan and update your family on the proper procedures in the event of a fire
• Contact your local fire department about affordable smoke detectors for low-income residents

Have you tested your smoke detector recently? Experts say tests should occur at least twice a year. Luckily, inspecting your detector is quick and easy. First, take a lit match or candle and hold it about six inches below the unit. Press the test button and wait for the smoke to waft up. If the alarm goes off, everything's working properly! If it doesn't trigger right away, blow out the flame and wait for an alarm. If it still doesn't go off, get in touch with Mr. Electric of Riverview to request a replacement.

Do you have questions about carbon monoxide detector installation? Perhaps you need a new smoke detector to replace a broken unit. No matter your circumstances, our seasoned electricians are here for you. Contact us today to schedule an inspection or replacement.