As the winter freeze gradually gives way to the warmth of a Queensland spring, we find ourselves emerging from the hibernation of the chilly months. Spring cleaning, gardening and home maintenance tasks become top priorities, and one key activity that should not be overlooked is the checking of your interconnected smoke alarms. Whilst this may not seem like the most exciting of springtime jobs, it is definetely one of the most important. The primary purpose of interconnected smoke alarms is to protect you and your loved ones in the event of a fire. By checking them at the onset of the spring, you can be sure that they are in good working condition and ready to alert you in case of an emergency.
Here’s how you should make checking your interconnected smoke alarms a regular springtime ritual.
Interconnected Smoke Alarm Spring Cleaning
Did you know that the changing seasonal weather can have an impact on your interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms? During winter, dust and debris can accumulate inside them, reducing their efficiency and increasing the possibility for nuisance alarms. Springtime also sees the release of botanical plant pollens and microscopic spores which if left unchecked can affect the internal sensors of your alarms. Whilst you’re already in spring cleaning mode, why not take a few extra minutes to ensure your smoke alarms are fully clean and operational. Gently vacuum around the exterior shell of your smoke detectors with the soft brush attachment from a vacuum cleaner to remove any cobwebs, dust build-up etc. In addition to this spring clean, we recommend to clean your ZEN smoke alarms 6 monthly.
Check The Smoke Alarm Batteries
Smoke alarms often rely on batteries for power, and these batteries can weaken or die over time. Fortunately most modern smoke detectors are now equipped with 10-year long life lithium batteries which are sealed inside the smoke alarm itself (after 10 years the entire smoke alarm is simply swapped out for a new one). However, if you still have an older style smoke alarm which uses 9V replaceable batteries then spring is a great time to either replace the old batteries with fresh ones, or our recommendation is to upgrade to new alarms with inbuilt 10-year long life batteries. So, go ahead, replace those dusty old 9V replaceable battery smoke alarms in springtime with the newest ZEN interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms equipped with 10-year long life batteries, and ensure your alarms are always ready to do their job.
Test Your Interconnected Smoke Alarms In Spring
Testing your interconnected smoke alarms is a relatively quick and straightforward task. You don’t need any special tools or expertise. Aside from the start of Spring, we recommend to test your ZEN smoke alarms monthly. It’s a small effort for a significant safety boost. In QLD smoke alarms must be interconnected (so if one smoke alarm activates, they all do). ZEN interconnected smoke alarms have a ‘test’ button that you can press to ensure they are working correctly. When testing your smoke alarms be sure to check that all the smoke alarms are interconnected and activate together, usually within about 10 seconds of the test button being pressed on the first smoke alarm. If not, it’s time for some troubleshooting or possibly a replacement. To test your ZEN smoke alarms simply press the centre surface of the alarm itself, or press the test button once on the optional remote control device. Test mode will conclude after approx. 10 seconds and all alarms will automatically silence.
Press the test button once on your ZEN smoke alarm, or use the optional ZEN remote control
What Is The Smoke Alarm Expiry Date?
Smoke alarms don’t last forever and should be replaced 10 years from the date of manufacture. According to Australian Standard 3786:2014, the smoke alarm date of manufacture should be printed on the rear of the smoke alarm – go on, have a look. If they’re older than 10 years then they should be replaced with newer models. Why? Photoelectric sensors and other internal components can degrade over time, leading to a less effective smoke alarm.
Interconnected Smoke Alarm Location
Whilst you’re at it, double-check the placement of your interconnected smoke alarms. Are they strategically positioned throughout your home as per Queensland smoke alarm laws? In Queensland there should be one smoke detector inside each bedroom, the interconnecting hallway outside the bedrooms, and at least one on each level of your home. If there is no interconnecting hallway outside the bedrooms then a smoke alarm must be installed outside the bedroom and other parts of the storey. Proper placement can make all the difference in early detection.
Teach Your Family About Interconnected Smoke Alarms
Checking your interconnected smoke alarms in the spring also presents an opportunity to educate your family about fire safety (especially children). Show them how to test the alarms and what to do and who to call in case they hear one go off. This knowledge can be invaluable in an emergency situation. Phone 000 (triple zero) for the Fire Brigade in a real life fire emergency situation. If you do not have one already, prepare a home fire escape plan and rehearse it at the start of Spring with all your family members.
Smoke Alarm Springtime Summary!
So there you have it, as you embark on your spring cleaning rituals and home maintenance tasks, don’t forget to check your smoke alarms. It’s a simple yet essential step to ensure the safety of your home and loved ones. With working interconnected smoke alarms in place, you can enjoy the beauty and rejuvenation of a QLD spring with the peace of mind that you are well-prepared for any potential fire-related emergencies. So, make it a springtime tradition to give your smoke alarms the attention they deserve – because the safety of your loved ones always comes first.
Want to know more? Watch our ZEN quick-start video or call us on 0478 596 402
We love talking smoke alarms!