What Type of Smoke Alarm Do You Have?

10/1/2021 (Permalink)

We all know that having working smoke alarms installed in the proper locations is crucial for residential and workplace safety.  But not all alarms are the same.  One main difference that they have is how they are powered. And how they are powered dictates their maintenance schedule.  Learn more about the three types of smoke alarms below.

Conventional Batteries

These units use regular batteries that many other household items use.  This makes them easy to maintain, as changing the batteries is as easy as changing them in your TV remote.  These units will beep when batteries are low.  Even if you don't hear the beep, you should check these units monthly to ensure that they are in working order.

Long Life Batteries

These alarms are a great middle ground between cost and ease of use.  Once you buy them, all you need to do is place them in the correct location in your home or business.  The batteries in these units are designed to last ten years, at which point, you replace with a new unit.  Of course, faulty units can occur, so you need to regularly test these alarms as well.

Hardwired Alarms

These units are by far the easiest to maintain, but not everyone can use them.  They also require professional installation or someone with electrical knowledge.  These units are wired directly into a building electrical system, where they draw their power.  These units should come with a battery backup, to ensure that they still maintain properly if the power goes out, or is otherwise compromised.  

SERVPRO of Lakewood West / University Place is here to help with any fire damage that you may have at your home or business.  We pride ourselves on around-the-clock service and quick on-scene response time.  Give us a call at 253.896.3000 to learn more or get assistance.