Smoke alarms are built-in security systems placed in different areas in a home designed to alert homeowners and anyone within it of smoke or possible fire. American Restoration Water & Fire takes fire safety very seriously, and smoke alarms are notorious for going off for several reasons. The sensors can be triggered for several reasons, some of which are easy fixes like dirty sensors or other additional causes.
Burnt Food: This can happen either in the oven, on the stovetop, or popping popcorn in the microwave. Any amount of smoke is supposed to trigger the sensors in your smoke alarm system. Open the windows, and it should air out relatively quickly.
Fireplaces: Does your home have a wood-burning fireplace? If so, this can be the most common cause of your smoke alarms going off. Be sure to have your fireplace checked annually to ensure that it’s vented correctly– which reduces the smoke that enters the home.
Potent Chemical Smells: This can happen when painting a room or deep cleaning small rooms. Always be sure to ventilate rooms you are working in that contain low VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds).
Dust and Dirt: Living in New Mexico, we experience many windy days that bring up dirt and dust. Like our air filters, it builds up in our homes and can build up around the smoke alarm sensors. Check around the smoke alarms, and wipe down any surfaces that may harbor this build-up.
Battery Replacement: Most modern smoke alarm systems are connected; this can mean that when a battery needs to be replaced, it can start a domino effect, and then every alarm will beep. Batteries in your smoke alarm should be replaced bi-annually.
Fire: Extreme heat and smoke will cause your smoke alarms to be triggered. If a section of your home is on fire, immediately initiate your fire escape plan and call emergency services. You can find how to create a fire safety plan here.
To prevent fire damage to your home and property, take these steps to ensure that your smoke alarms are in working order. Smoke alarms typically have a life span of 10 years, after which they should be replaced. You can purchase new smoke alarms at your local hardware store. For more fire prevention and safety tips, check our site frequently!
If you have had fire or smoke damage to your home, we are here to help 24/7. We will work with your insurance company to ensure everything is handled properly and quickly.
