Keeping Your Family Out of Harm’s Way

You may think a fire could never start in your home or business, but in reality, they can happen to anyone. A smoke detector is the best way to protect yourself and your building from fires. Plus, lots of homes in the Dallas area have gas heat, so carbon monoxide detectors are an absolute necessity to protect your family from exposure to dangerous gas.

Wiring a smoke or carbon monoxide detector into your house's main electrical power source is often the safest option for many homeowners. With this solution, you don't have to worry about the batteries dying. Plus, the units throughout your home can be interconnected so that they will all sound at once if smoke or carbon monoxide is detected in a room. At ElectricMan, our Dallas electricians can easily install these detectors for you. We can also advise you if a different kind of detector installation is a better choice for your home.

Commonly Asked Questions About Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors

• Do I have to hard-wire my detector?: Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are designed to constantly read your room and pick up any trace of harmful gas or smoke, which can signal the presence of fire. If there is a fire in the building, sometimes the electricity in your home is compromised. In this case, the electricity powering the detector would fail and the unit would rely on its backup battery to keep you safe.
• What is the purpose of a carbon monoxide detector?: Carbon monoxide detectors are designed to alert occupants to the presence of carbon monoxide gas, which is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. Carbon monoxide is produced by incomplete combustion of fuels such as wood, gas, and oil. Breathing in carbon monoxide can be fatal, so detectors are crucial for early detection.
• Where should smoke and carbon monoxide detectors be placed?: Smoke detectors are typically recommended in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home. Carbon monoxide detectors are usually recommended near sleeping areas and on each level of the home.
• How often should I test my detectors?: It's recommended to test both smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly to ensure they are functioning properly. Most detectors have a test button that, when pressed, simulates the presence of smoke or carbon monoxide.
• What is the lifespan of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors?: Detectors have a limited lifespan, usually around 10 years. Check the manufacturer's recommendations for the specific model you have. Replace detectors that are past their expiration date.
• Can I install a smoke detector near the kitchen?: It's generally not recommended to install a smoke detector right in the kitchen, as cooking activities can trigger false alarms. Instead, place it a short distance away, or use a heat detector in the kitchen.
• How do I maintain my detectors?: Keep detectors clean from dust and debris, and test them regularly. Change the batteries at least once a year or as directed by the manufacturer. Vacuum detectors gently using a soft brush attachment to remove dust.
• What's the difference between a hardwired and a battery-operated detector?: Hardwired detectors are connected to the home's electrical system and often have a backup battery. Battery-operated detectors rely solely on batteries. Hardwired detectors are typically interconnected, meaning if one alarm goes off, all interconnected alarms will sound.

Always refer to the specific manufacturer's instructions and guidelines for your detectors, as recommendations may vary based on the model and technology used. Regular maintenance and testing are key to ensuring these devices work when needed most.

Common Questions About Hardwired Detectors

• Why is it important to have the unit hardwired in the first place?
• Is there a good chance the unit will have to rely on the backup battery?
• Why not solely rely on the battery and avoid hard-wiring at all?

The problem with batteries is that they run out. If the unit runs solely on battery power, it will pull juice from that battery all day and night. You'll blow through several batteries a month, creating environmental waste and spending unnecessary money on batteries.

If you do not hard-wire your unit, your other option is to purchase a detector that plugs into an existing outlet. Carbon monoxide detectors are available in this form, requiring no additional wiring to operate. Smoke detectors are rarely found in plug-in options because smoke rises in a room and therefore the detectors need to be located along the ceiling to better protect you.

Let our electricians provide you with a safe detector so you can sleep soundly knowing your unit will not fail you in the case of an emergency. With a comprehensive smoke and carbon monoxide detector installation in Dallas, your family will be better protected from the threats of harmful gas and fire.