Why Should You Have A Hardwired Smoke Detector Installed In Your Winnipeg Home?

According to SGI Canada, annually, there are about 24,000 house fires each year. Fires are most likely to start in the kitchen, bedrooms and living room. SGI Canada also reports that over one-third of the homes didn’t have a working smoke detector. Smoke alarms save lives when they are working properly and have fresh batteries. If you are one of those people who forget to change the batteries of your smoke alarms, consider asking an electrician in Winnipeg to install hardwired smoke detectors in your home for added safety.

What Is a Hardwire Smoke Detector?

A hardwired smoke detector is wired to your electric system, which means that it doesn’t require a battery. You don’t have to worry about changing the battery, so you get more peace of mind. Some hardwired smoke detectors have a battery backup, which means that you have protection if your power does go out.

How Expensive Is a Hardwire Smoke Detector?

Hardwired smoke detectors aren’t that much more expensive than battery-operated ones. The big difference is in installation. You will likely want an electrician to wire your hardwire smoke detector to ensure it’s installed properly. Battery-operated smoke detectors are much less fussy and can be installed DIY. In places where you can’t access electrical wiring, it may make sense to install a battery-powered smoke detector. Hardwired smoke detectors are considered more effective than battery-powered ones.

How Many Smoke Detectors Does Your Home Need?

Local ordinances vary, so you need to check with your municipality to determine local codes. It’s generally recommended that each dwelling has a smoke detector on each level and in each bedroom and outside each bedroom area. In newer homes, direct-wired smoke alarms have already been installed. You should also check with your homeowner’s insurance to see if they have recommendations about installation and possibly any deductions for installing hard-wired smoke alarms.

How Long Will a Hardwire Smoke Detector Last?

Although hardwired smoke detectors do not need batteries, it is recommended that they be replaced every 10 years. This ensures your smoke detector meets all new codes and operates efficiently when and if you need it. With technology developments, smoke detectors are getting smarter and better at detecting problems. By installing new technology, you take advantage of the best ways to protect your home.

Why Install a Hardwired Smoke Detector?

Smoke detectors save lives. Did you know that you shouldn’t use rechargeable batteries in your smoke detector? For some reason, rechargeable batteries do not give off a beep when they lose power. A hardwire smoke alarm frees you up from worrying if you’ve changed the battery or not. Many home fires are preventable, but a smoke detector is a second layer of protection.

Make Sure Your Family Knows What To Do in Case of Fire

Teach your family fire safety and have a fire plan. Practice your fire plan at least once a year, similar to fire drills at school and work. Every person should know at least two different exits out of your home. Install fire extinguishers in your kitchen and near fireplaces. Don’t smoke in bed. SGI Canada reports that the number one ignition source for fatal, preventable fires is smoking materials, such as cigarettes. Cooking materials are another hazard that creates many fires.

Upgrade Your Home For Safety

When you’re installing your hardwire smoke detector, consider adding a carbon monoxide alarm that identifies CO levels in your home. It’s a small device that can make it safer in your home, especially if you have a fireplace. Handyman Connection offers electrical repair services for homes of all ages, so you can feel safe. Contact us to get more information about our services.