Interconnected Photoelectric Smoke Alarms are one of the most important safety features in any home. They can save lives by detecting smoke early, giving residents time to evacuate before a fire becomes uncontrollable. However, simply installing smoke alarms is not enough – many people fail to maintain their smoke alarms properly, and as a result, they may not function in a real life fire situation. Cleaning and testing your smoke alarm regularly can help ensure that it will work when you need it most, and also maximize the life expectancy of the alarm itself.
How To Clean Your Interconnected Smoke Alarms
Interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms are designed to detect smoke particles in the air. Over time, dust and other debris can accumulate on the sensors, which can interfere with their ability to detect smoke. Regular cleaning helps to ensure that the sensors are functioning properly and that the smoke alarm will work when you need it.
Cleaning your ZEN smoke alarm is a relatively simple process – please watch our short video below! You can use a soft brush or vacuum cleaner attachment to remove dust and debris from the sensors by gently vacuuming over and around the external perimeter of the smoke alarm, particularly near the air intake grill. You may be surprised by the dirt, dust and cobwebs that have accumulated over time. Do not apply any liquids or aerosol chemical cleaning agents onto your smoke alarm as this could damage it. We recommend to clean your smoke alarms every 6 months.
How To Test Your Interconnected Smoke Alarms
Testing your interconnected smoke alarm is an important part of maintaining it. It is recommended to test your ZEN smoke alarms monthly. It is a good idea to let people in the vicinity know you will be testing the alarms prior to doing so. To test your ZEN smoke alarms simply press the centre surface of the alarm (the test button). Alternatively you may press the test button once on the optional remote control device. After the test button is pressed all the interconnected smoke alarms should activate with 10 seconds of the first one – this is normal. All the alarms will make a beeping noise and flash their red light. After approximately 10 seconds all the alarms will silence automatically and the test is concluded.
It’s also a good idea to test your smoke alarm after any significant home renovations or changes, such as painting or installing new carpet. These changes can generate dust and debris that can interfere with the smoke alarm’s sensors. Pro tip – never paint over your smoke alarm if painting the ceiling.
Why Testing Your Interconnected Smoke Alarm Is Important
Testing your smoke alarm regularly is essential for ensuring that it’s working correctly. A smoke alarm that doesn’t work properly won’t be able to alert you to a fire in your home. In a worst-case scenario, this can have tragic consequences including loss of life and/or property.
Smoke alarms are especially critical during the night when you’re asleep. Many fires occur during the night, and if you’re not alerted to a fire early enough, you may not be able to evacuate in time. A properly functioning smoke alarm can give you the time you need to get out of your home safely.
Cleaning and testing your smoke alarm is a simple but essential task that can save lives. Regular basic maintenance of your interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms will ensure they remain working as intended, and will last their full 10-year lifespan without any complications. With a properly functioning smoke alarm that is regularly tested and maintained, you can sleep soundly knowing that you and your family are protected from the dangers of fire. Be sure to take good care of your smoke alarms – and they will take good care of you!
Want to know more? Watch our ZEN quick-start video or call us on 0478 596 402
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