When it comes to keeping you and your family safe, ensuring that your smoke detectors are functioning is one of the most important preventative steps to take to avoid tragedy. Current recommendations by the U.S. Fire Administration suggest that you should test your smoke alarms about once a month, but, unfortunately, most homeowners forget to do so

Can’t remember the last time you checked your smoke detectors? Follow these simple steps provided by our experts at A-1 Electric, a leading electrical service company serving properties in Bucks County, to improve the safety of your space!

• Alert your family members. Smoke detectors emit a high-pitched screeching noise when activated, which can frighten small children and startle adults.

• Station an assistant. If you don’t have smoke detectors in every room of your home, station a family member as far away from the smoke detector you are testing as possible. If they cannot hear the alarm or it is muffled, you will want to consider installing another detector for maximum safety.

• Press the button. Locate the test button on your smoke detectors, and press and hold it down. Though it may take a minute to activate, you should hear a loud, ear-shattering beep or siren noise. If the sound is weak or you do not hear anything, try replacing your batteries.

• Clean the grates. Locate the grates on your smoke detector and clear away any dirt of dust that may have collected after your last test. Leaving debris to collect makes it more difficult for your smoke detector to sound an alarm when there is a fire.

According to data from the U.S. Fire Administration, smoke detectors have a lifespan of about 10 years. Even if an old smoke detector is working after this time, its decreased efficiency level may be putting your family at risk.

If it’s been 10 years since you’ve replaced your smoke detectors, call our team at A-1 Electric to schedule an appointment for new detector installation.

As a reminder, our team can perform an inspection on your property and provide electrical service in your Montgomery County home but not at the same time according to state law. This is also to avoid any conflict of interest.