Smoke Detector Buying Guide
Smoke and flames usually are hard to ignore, but a fire that begins in a vacant part of the house or starts in the middle of the night can spread undetected. A fire has the potential to engulf an entire house in a matter of minutes and represents a potential hazard anywhere. Smoke detectors detect smoke instantly, alerting those in the vicinity of a potential danger. A smoke detector produces a signal like a loud beep or an alarm when it detects smoke. Selecting smoke detectors for your home, tenanted property, or workplace can be challenging. The manufacturers of smoke detectors over the years have developed a variety of different types of sensors that are easy to set up and sometimes even come with safety features. Fitting the right type of detector in each room will reduce not only false alarms but also identify real fire hazards quicker.
Benefits of Buying a Smoke Detector
Prevent Smoke Inhalation
Smoke and fire produce carbon monoxide which when inhaled in large quantities can cause death. There are a greater number of people dying of smoke inhalation than dying by an actual fire. Smoke detectors can instinctively detect any kind of smoke and treat it as a potential hazard, providing a chance for you to escape.
Alerts the Firefighters
Smoke detectors that are wired into a building send off an alert to the nearest fire department. But this is possible only in cases of certain detectors.
Constant protection
A home fire alarm system gives the homeowner protection every day. Your home will be monitored when you are away, or at night when you are sleeping. With a smoke detector, you and your family can feel secure knowing this monitoring never stops.
Saves on House Insurance cost
Smoke detectors can save you money on your home insurance. Homeowner policies often give discounts and deals to customers who have these systems installed in their house.
Factors to Consider Before Buying a Smoke Detector
Easy installation
The smoke detectors should be easy to install and maintain. Battery operated smoke detectors are easier to install than other wired systems.
Battery Life
You must consider a smoke detector that has a reasonably long battery life, so that frequent replacement is not required.
Protection Against Insects
Most of the smoke alarms are equipped with insect screens so that insects do not set off false alarms.
Low Battery Alert
Smoke detectors that are powered by batteries should have the facility to monitor their battery level and give a warning when the battery needs replacement.
Periodical Testing
Smoke detectors should be tested periodically to ensure that they are working correctly. The smoke alarm usually has a test button that permits you to check if it is working.
Silence Feature
The smoke alarm should have a silence button that allows you to deactivate the alarm quickly.
Warranty
It is important that the smoke alarm comes with a warranty. A majority of smoke alarms have a guarantee of 5-10 years.
Conclusion
Smoke detectors are devices that are designed to keep us safe. Smoke detectors are now required in every house, apartment or villa in the US. It can be confusing to choose one from the many options available, but with the help of our featured section you will gain a better understanding. We have shortlisted some of the best products in our featured section above. These products are ranked and reviewed based on Reliability, Design, Build quality and Noise level.
