Change smoke detector and CO2 detector batteries every six months.

Manufactures of  smoke detectors and CO2 detectors recommended that batteries are changed every six months.  There are some types of detectors that recommend once a year.  Most detectors sound an alarm when they need changed, but it is best to change them before this happens.   When one goes off they all start going off and it is very difficult to find the offending detector, when you have interconnected detectors.   It’s even funner when it happens in the middle of the night.

What else should you do to maintain your Smoke and CO2 detectors?

It is recommended that smoke and CO2 detectors are tested monthly.  The life of detectors are 7-10 years depending on the brand and type.  Vacuum your smoke alarm with a soft brush attachment around the smoke alarm vents to remove cobwebs and dust every 6 months.  Never paint your detectors.  Painting them can block the sensors that sound the alarm.

Locations a smoke detector should be located.

Smoke detectors should be locate in every sleeping area along with in the hall outside each room as well.  If you have stairs, a smoke detector should be locate at the top and bottom levels near the stairwell.

What about Carbon Monoxide (CO2) detectors?

CO2 detectors should be located in the room directly inside from your garage.  One should also be located in the hallway outside sleeping areas.   It is a good idea to have one in the attic by your furnace as well.  Kitchens are also a good place to have a CO2 detector.   There is a myth that CO2 is heavier that air, that is not true.  CO2 detectors should be located on the ceilings.  If you have an all electric house, CO2 detectors are only necessary outside the garage.

There are many different type of Smoke and CO2 detectors.

There are two primary types of residential smoke detectors.  They contain either ionization or photoelectric sensors. Each smoke alarm detects distinctly different types of fires, so dual sensor alarms, which utilize both types of sensors, have risen in popularity.  Smoke detectors consist of two basic parts: a sensor to sense smoke and a loud electronic alarm. They can run off of a 9-volt battery or be hardwired into a 120-volt house current.

There are smoke and co2 alarms that are designed to meet the needs of people with hearing disabilities. These alarms use strobe lights and vibrations to alert anyone unable to hear standard smoke detectors.

Remember, A well maintained home is a Happier Home!