Alarm systems are the ideal way to know if a nefarious individual is trying to gain access into your home. However, they are also great for letting you know of other problems, including heat, smoke and fire. After all, these natural situations can be just as dangerous and devastating as a human one.
No one wants to experience a home fire; however, if you are prepared and utilize preventative measures, such as smoke, heat and fire sensors and detectors, you have a great chance of avoiding becoming a victim.
If you are convinced you want to install a heat or smoke detector, location matters. Learn where to install these detectors and sensors here.
Install the Sensors as High as Possible on the Wall or Ceiling
Heat and smoke rises, which means that installing smoke and heat detectors high – on a wall or ceiling – makes sense. Ideally, you should install the sensor on the ceiling, but a high point on your wall will be sufficient, as well. Make sure that you don’t install it too close to where your ceiling and wall meet, as this may hinder its ability to detect heat or smoke.
If you have a room with a pitched ceiling (one that is pointed), you should not place the sensor at the top where the walls meet. Instead, put it about a foot below this point.
Protect Your Whole House with Multiple Sensors
The main room that should have a heat and smoke sensor is the bedroom. Not just one bedroom in your home, but all of them. In fact, officials from the NFPA have recommended that homeowners install a smoke detector in each bedroom and outside of the sleeping areas on each level of the home.
What this means that fire safety requires you to install multiple sensors in your home. Just installing one sensor isn’t going to properly protect you if you live in an average, single family home.
No-Go: Where You Need to Avoid Installing a Sensor
There are certain parts of the home where you do not need to install a heat or smoke sensor. The first place to avoid is the kitchen. The smoke that is created when you cook can result in an alarm being triggered, which means it won’t be as accurate.
You should also avoid installing a sensor in the bathroom. While this may not seem possible thanks to advanced technology, the hot steam produced in this room of the house can trigger a false alarm. There isn’t anything quite as annoying as the unending squawk of a fire alarm when there is no real danger.
If you use a fireplace, it is fine to install your sensor in the same room. However, make sure the sensor is not placed so close that the heat triggers it. Instead, place it near the end of the room, and opposite of your fireplace.
When you know where to install your smoke and heat sensor, you will be able to better protect your family and home. If you are still unsure, you can call the professionals for help with the installation process.