A fire alarm is an important safety tool. It is a must have in every home and office. People think that having a fire alarm is enough. But the real work starts later. Maintenance is not routine. Most logs are checked externally only. But what happens in the system is ignored. Alarm performance degrades over time. Smoke is becoming increasingly difficult to detect. The alarm fails when a true emergency occurs. Maintenance doesn’t just mean replacing the battery.

Every part must be checked. Can do log tests but not deep testing. Forget about hiring professional services. In this article we will talk about one thing that people tend to forget about log fire alarm maintenance. Checking these things can make the difference in life and safety. Every user should understand that a fire alarm is not useful once. There should be a routine every month. The system will only work if you maintain each part.

Dust Inside Unit

Cleaning the fire alarm should not be limited to the surface. Dust accumulates not only in spring but also in winter. If dust moves, the sensor is slow to detect movement. Most logs are used only to clean the body. But cleaning the inside is important. The area around the sensor should be kept clean. Remove dust from the floor with a small brush or air blower.

This work should be completed within 3 months. The light sensor is blocked by dust. No response is given when smoke hits the sensor. It’s a small thing but the impact is huge. A delayed alarm can be dangerous in a fire situation. Open and check alarms on each floor. Read the manual on how to access the sensor. Do not use sharp objects. The sensor may be damaged. Check the system after cleaning. If the sound is suitable for the system. No need to repair or replace. Dust is silent but deals damage. Don’t ignore this thing.

Wiring connections and loose parts

Checking the wiring is very important. A fire alarm is an electronic device. If the wire becomes loose, the device will not work. Do not touch the log wire area frequently. He thinks everything runs on batteries. But the wire connection must be secure. This problem is more common in wall-mounted alarms. The wire wears out over time. This screw is loose.

Also check the wiring when you replace the battery. Plastic clips are tight or not visible. If an alarm sounds delayed, check the wiring. Do a visual check every month. It doesn’t hurt to tighten it a bit with a screwdriver. If a wireless system, check the base unit connections. Is the power cable plugged into the correct port or not? The wire is routed from place to place so that the vehicle does not get dust or rust. Moisture can cause the wire to short out. Keep such areas dry. Verify the signal with a wire testing tool. Alarms on each floor should be properly connected. A loose wire can cause signal failure.

Discontinued alarm units

Often the log is changed simply by changing the battery. But the alarm unit also has a life. Each model has an expiration date. Usually it is 8-10 years. After that the sensor does not work. Detection time is decreasing. The buzzer has also weakened. But people think that as long as the sound is coming, the device is fine. This is a wrong thought. The expiry date is written on the back of the device. It is also mentioned in the manual. 

Each alarm should be recorded. Write the dates in a diary or file. When the time is up, replace it immediately. There is no profit from the liquidated unit. It only gives illusion. This unit has new features. The sensor is fresh. Wireless and mobile alert support is also available. It is dangerous to keep an expired unit at home. In a fire emergency, the system remains silent. No one knows how to walk like this. Check the history of the unit every 6 months. If you have passed the expiry date, don’t waste your time. Replace it and install a new one.

Left the silence feature enabled

Alarms have a feature called a “silence” or “hush” mode. This tab mode is used when there is a false alarm. As if cooking smoke could set off alarm bells. Log in and view details while pressing the silence button. But often you forget to disable re-login. When silence mode is activated, the alarm is silenced for a short period of time. 

If there is real smoke in our time, there will be no fire alarm. This feature is for comfort but misuse is harmful. How long is silent mode active after manual reading? Some models have 10 minutes, some 15. Every time you press silence it sets a timer. It has to be disabled by setting a reminder. The silence mode indicator light also turns on. Be alert until the light goes out. Families should also be taught how to use the silence button properly. If there is a false alert try opening the window instead of silence. Smoke escapes due to ventilation. Silence mode is only a short-term solution.

Not checking for app notifications

• Using the App

Smart alarms work through the app. But just forget about installing the log. If the app is not active you will miss alerts. The benefit of the alarm is only when the app is used.

• Ignore notifications

The app gives low battery or malfunction alerts. If you have turned off notifications, you will not receive an alert. This face eliminates the risk of fire.

• Checking the settings

Every phone is allowed. Access to the app is required. Background running should also be enabled. Check the setting every week.

• Pay attention to the updates

Both the fire app and the fire alarm must be updated. App did not work properly due to version mismatch. Reports should be watched.

• App in family phones

Just installing the fire app on the phone is not enough. Install it on all members’ phones. If one’s net is closed, the other will be smart.

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• Wi-Fi range to test

WiFi signals should be strong. The distance between the alarm and the router should be fine. Alert is late due to weak signal.

• Open the app regularly

Open the app every week. Please check the notifications. View battery and sensor status. Smart Alarm is only useful when the app is also active.

Conclusion

A fire alarm is a reliable system but only if used and maintained properly. Logs are often limited to battery and surface cleaning only. But factors like motion sensor, wire, silence mode, smart app and expiration are also important. It is the duty of every homeowner to check these things. Create a monthly schedule. Write the dates on the calendar.

Alarm system can be like a time bomb if it is not checked in time. Safety does not come from installation alone. True safety is achieved through care. Everyone in the household should be aware. Add a test and clean routine. Alarm is not just a voice box. He is the protector of your life. When you get to the right place, keep using it properly.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When should fire alarms be tested?

A test should be done every month. The system must be enabled. The sound should be clear. Follow the manual testing procedure.

2. What is the best way to remove dust?

Use a soft brush or air blower. Do not damage the sensor. Turn off the device and clean it. Repeat every 3 months.

3. How to find out about expired alarms?

The date is written on the back. Expiration is also mentioned in the booklet. A change is necessary after 8-10 years.

4. How to remember to disable silent mode?

Set the phone timer. Keep a sticky note. Guide your family members too. Also check the status with the indicator light.

5. How to disable mobile app notifications?

Open Settings. The app has full access. Background activity on Keep. Check weekly status.

6. What should be the height of the alarm installation?

Place it in the center of the roof. A little further from the wall is a door. Will find out before the smoke. Follow the manual outline.

7. Should there be an alarm on every floor?

Yes it should be. Every zone is covered from the ground up. Close the kitchen and bedroom.

8. Which spray should be used to clean the alarm?

Do not use any sprays. The dry method is best. Moisture can damage the sensor. A soft brush is sufficient.