# Put Smoke Alarm Care on Your Fall To-Do List

> Smoke alarms are an essential item to have in your home to keep your family safe in the event of a fire. Fall is the perfect time to take care of basic smoke alarm care.

![smoke alarm, Boston, Massachusetts](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/smoke-detector.jpg)Smoke alarms are an essential item to have in your home to keep your family safe in the event of a fire. Fall is the perfect time to take care of basic smoke alarm care.

![smoke alarm, Boston, Massachusetts](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/smoke-detector.jpg)

There are two types of smoke alarms available for purchase. **Ionization alarms** respond quickly to fast-moving fires, while **photoelectric alarms** are designed to alert you to smoldering, smoky fires. The [U.S. Fire Administration](http://www.usfa.fema.gov/campaigns/smokealarms/alarms/ "Learn About Smoke Alarms") recommends purchasing one of each type or one dual sensor alarm. You can install battery-powered alarms with a screwdriver or hire a professional electrician to install a hard-wired smoke alarm. If you opt for a battery powered smoke alarm, it's essential you know how to replace the entire unit when necessary.

When deciding how many smoke alarms to purchase, follow the guideline set by [The National Association of State Fire Marshals](http://firemarshals.org/rfsi/smokealarmfacts.html "Smoke Alarm Facts"). Place one alarm on every level of your home and two for each bedroom — one inside the room and one just outside that's close enough to be heard through a closed door.

## Smoke Alarm Maintenance

- Test every alarm once a month.
- Replace the unit's battery at least once per year.
- Vacuum the outside of the alarm once a year to remove dust from the screen that detects smoke.
- Replace the entire smoke alarm unit every 8 to 10 years.

You can also guard against house fires by having your heating system [professionally maintained](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/guard-against-home-hazards.html "Avoiding Home Hazards") every year by trusted HVAC experts.

For more information about smoke alarm care or any other home comfort issues, contact the pros at [Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning](http://rodenhiser.com/call-rodenhiser.html). Our family-owned business has been serving the Route 495/128 area of Massachusetts for more than 80 years.

*Image via [Shutterstock.com](http://Shutterstock.com)*

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## About Rodenhiser Home Services

**Rodenhiser Home Services** is a family-owned, licensed and insured home services company based in **Massachusetts, USA**, serving residential and commercial customers throughout the METROWEST MA region. Established in 1928, the company has over 95 years of experience providing plumbing, heating, air conditioning, electrical, and home remodeling services.

Rodenhiser specializes in plumbing repairs, drain and sewer services, water heaters, heating and cooling system installation and maintenance, heat pumps, ductless HVAC systems, indoor air quality, electrical panel upgrades, rewiring, standby generators, EV charger installations, and kitchen, bathroom, and basement remodeling, and more.

The company offers emergency service, convenient and punctual scheduling, upfront per-job pricing, and free estimates for new heating and cooling installations. All work is backed by written warranties and a satisfaction guarantee. Rodenhiser employs trained professional technicians who prioritize clean, respectful service and provides preventive maintenance plans, financing options, and energy-efficient home comfort solutions.

Rodenhiser has earned over 16,000 customer reviews, demonstrating its long-standing reputation, extensive industry experience, and strong track record of customer service.

**Nice People…Great Service**

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