In Western Australia, any new home or home extension built after 1997 must have 240V hard-wired smoke alarms installed. This requirement was extended in 2009 to cover all existing properties before they are sold, rented, or leased. Despite these regulations, tragically, lives are still lost in house fires each year.
A study by Macquarie University revealed that more Australians die in house fires than from all other natural disasters combined. Most of these deaths are preventable with functional and properly maintained smoke alarms.
The Importance of Smoke Alarm Maintenance
Like any safety equipment, smoke alarms need regular maintenance to ensure they’re functioning as intended. Smoke alarms do not last forever—they have a maximum lifespan of 10 years. After this period, they may fail to detect smoke properly, putting your home at risk.
Look for a ‘replace by’ date on the exterior of your smoke alarm. If there’s no sticker, you may need to remove the top from its base to find the manufacture date, which is typically embossed inside the alarm. If your smoke alarm is nearing its 10-year mark, don’t delay—contact Assured Electrical to replace it promptly.
If you’re unsure when your smoke alarms were last replaced, we highly recommend replacing them right away. Smoke alarms are among the most critical safety devices in your home, along with the main switch and RCDs in your electrical panel. Don’t take chances with your safety.
How to Keep Your Smoke Alarms Functioning Properly
Regular testing and maintenance are essential for keeping your smoke alarms in optimal condition. Test and clean your alarms at least once a year to ensure they’re working properly. This includes checking that the batteries are fresh, and that vents are free from dust and debris. Blocked vents can prevent smoke from reaching the sensors, compromising the alarm’s ability to detect fires.
Professional Installation for Hard-Wired Smoke Alarms
For homes with hard-wired smoke alarms, don’t attempt to replace them yourself. These alarms are connected to your 240V mains power and require a licensed electrician to ensure proper installation and compliance with safety standards.
Contact Assured Electrical for Your Smoke Alarm Needs
If you haven’t replaced or tested your smoke alarms in some time—or if you don’t currently have a smoke alarm system—Assured Electrical can help. Our team of qualified professionals will ensure your smoke alarms are fully operational, giving you peace of mind that your family is protected.
For assistance, please reach out to us at:
Phone: 08 9497 3291
Website: Assured Electrical