Smoke, carbon monoxide and water detectors save lives — and expensive repair costs.
Fire safety experts say that functional smoke detectors cut your risk of injury or death in a home fire in half. Carbon monoxide gas is virtually undetectable until it’s too late, and so detectors are absolutely essential in every home. And water sensors and leak detectors can help you uncover hidden problems in your piping and plumbing systems, preventing costly damage.
All types of detectors need to be carefully placed and regularly maintained. Best practices for the location and maintenance of each type is different, so check your home’s detectors often to ensure they are functioning properly.
Placing and Maintaining Smoke Detectors
You should place at least one smoke detector on each level of your home, and often more are necessary. Manufacturers generally recommend that you install them on the ceiling, since heat and smoke both rise naturally. Always follow manufacturer guidelines for your particular unit; user’s manuals are typically available online if you’ve misplaced the original.
It’s good to be in the habit of testing your smoke detectors at least once per month. Most modern units have a test button that you simply press to ensure the detector is working properly. If you have a battery-powered unit, replace the batteries at least once a year.
Test the effectiveness of your smoke alarm by having everyone in your household go to their bedrooms and close the door. Check to make sure the alarm is clearly audible, even with the door closed. If not, you should place separate smoke detectors in rooms where the alarm signal cannot be easily heard.
Smoke detectors should be replaced after ten years. You can keep them free of dust and debris by using a soft-bristled vacuum attachment. Refer to manufacturer guidelines for other cleaning and care tips.
Where to Put a Carbon Monoxide Detector
Combustion appliances like furnaces, space heaters and gas-powered stoves generate carbon monoxide. While appliance exhaust systems are designed to safely eliminate carbon monoxide from your home, leaks and other types of minor damage can lead to emissions remaining indoors. This creates a very dangerous situation, as carbon monoxide poisoning can be fatal. It is called the “silent killer” since it is often undetectable until it’s too late.
Carbon monoxide detectors offer a vital level of protection against this deadly gas. They monitor airborne carbon monoxide and alert household residents if they reach dangerous levels.
Experts usually recommend installing carbon monoxide detectors at any height on the wall. They should be placed in a position where they will not be impeded, and they should also be located away from combustion appliances to prevent false alarms. As with smoke detectors, you should conduct periodic tests to ensure your carbon monoxide detector is working properly, and replace its batteries at least once a year.
If your carbon monoxide detector sounds, evacuate your home immediately and call 911.
Using Leak Detectors and Water Sensors
Leak detectors and water sensors are typically placed in the basement, where pipes and plumbing infrastructure converge. Burst pipes can cause major headaches and require expensive repairs, and early detection of problems can help prevent them and a home insurance claim.
Water sensors are configured to detect fluid buildups in your pipes and plumbing, sending you an alert if a problem is found. Leak detectors let you know if flow rates and water volumes show abnormalities, allowing you to address the issue before it reaches catastrophic levels. Modern water sensors and leak detectors are wireless, and can be connected to your home’s main hub if you’re using smart living technologies.
Finally, remember that flood insurance is now available in most regions of Alberta. The enhanced water damage package offered by the province’s leading insurers provides effective and affordable coverage for situations including natural disasters and sewer backups.
Call Lane’s Insurance of Calgary for Excellent Home Insurance Customer Service and Competitive Rates
Lane’s Insurance is an independent brokerage, offering excellent customer service, outstanding claims support and highly competitive rates on a complete range of home insurance products. Remember that Lane’s helps you save 20 percent by bundling your home and auto insurance together! To get started, visit Lane’s for your fast, free home insurance quote.