Smoke & CO Detector Installation Services in Simi Valley, CA

Is it time to upgrade or replace your CO detectors in Simi Valley? Countless homeowners throughout the area depend on RR Electric for expert CO detector installation, timely replacement, and reliable repairs. Whether you’re installing a new system, upgrading existing alarms, or addressing a malfunction, our experienced team is here to help.

CO vs. CO2 Detectors: A Common Misconception

Due to the similarities between the phrases “CO detector” and “CO2 detector,” these terms are often used interchangeably. However, this is actually a misconception!

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a poisonous gas that can be produced by faulty appliances like furnaces, stoves, or water heaters. Carbon monoxide detectors can alert you to dangerous levels of CO before it’s too late.

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is naturally occurring in our atmosphere. We produce it when we breathe, burn fossil fuels, or engage in cooking and heating. Unlike CO, which is highly toxic, CO2 typically poses risks only in poorly ventilated or confined spaces. “CO2 detectors” do exist, but are typically used in industrial settings or for monitoring indoor air quality. 

Signs You Should Replace Your Smoke Alarms or CO Detector Units

Age of Current Equipment

Each smoke detector should be replaced every ten years, according to guidelines from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and most manufacturer’s instructions. Check the back or side of the detector for its manufacturing date. 

Each CO detector should be replaced every five to seven years, depending on the manufacturer’s instructions. For combined CO and smoke alarms, follow the shorter replacement interval.

Frequent False Alarms

If your CO or smoke detector goes off without any smoke, fire, or natural gas present, it could indicate a malfunction or sensor deterioration. Persistent false alarms often mean it’s time to invest in a new unit.

Unresponsive to Testing

Test smoke alarms and CO detector units monthly by pressing the test button. If the alarm doesn’t sound or is weak, the detector may be failing.

Physical Damage or Yellowing

Visible damage, such as cracks or discoloration (often caused by age or heat), can compromise the effectiveness of a CO or smoke detector. Yellowing plastic might indicate it’s overdue for replacement.

Areas We Serve

We aren’t limited to providing smoke and CO detector installation services in Simi Valley alone. RR Electric, Heating & Air also serves the following communities in CA:

• Agoura Hills
• Calabasas
• Camarillo
• Moorpark
• Santa Clarita
• Thousand Oaks
• Westlake Village
• Sherman Oaks
• Woodland Hills
• Encino
• Oxnard
• Ventura
• Chatsworth
• Stevenson Ranch
• Newbury Park
• Northridge
• North Hills
• Canoga Park
• West Hills
• Van Nuys
• Malibu
• Pacific Palisades
• Topanga
• Pacoima
• Tarzana
• Oak Park
• Castaic
• And beyond!

Don’t Leave Your Home Unprotected — Check Your CO & Smoke Detectors Today!

Protect your loved ones from the dangers of smoldering fires with RR Electric, Heating & Air’s smoke and CO detector installation services in Simi Valley, CA, and the surrounding areas. Whether you need to install smoke alarms at your brand-new property or are struggling to test an existing CO alarm system, we are just a call or click away. Remember, in case of a fire or a gas leak, that first alert is critically important. So don’t wait; contact us now to schedule your service!

FAQs About Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Can you install a smoke alarm or CO detector yourself?

While it may be tempting to install a smoke alarm or CO detector yourself, professional installation is strongly recommended to avoid the risk of shock or electrical fires. Our certified electricians will verify that your CO and smoke alarms are correctly wired, placed in optimal ceiling or wall locations, and compliant with building codes and manufacturer’s instructions. We also have the training and tools to install alarm equipment without damaging your home’s wiring or creating electrical hazards.

What are the different power sources for smoke detectors?

Battery-powered smoke detectors offer the convenience of portability and easy installation. However, battery-powered units need to be replaced at regular intervals to work properly because if the battery dies, the entire smoke alarm becomes ineffective. As of 2014, California law dictates that new battery-powered smoke alarms must have non-removable, non-replaceable batteries that can operate the unit for its entire life span (typically around ten years).

Hardwired smoke detectors are connected to your home’s electrical system, providing continuous power. Hardwired units are also called interconnected smoke alarms because when one smoke alarm sounds, all alarms activate to alert occupants to potential danger. Many hardwired smoke alarm systems also have a backup battery in case of power outages.

Which type of smoke detector should I have installed inside my home?

We highly recommend installing hardwired (interconnected) smoke alarms whenever possible. While these systems require a larger upfront investment than battery-powered smoke alarms, the increased fire safety that they provide is worthwhile. We can evaluate your property to determine how many smoke detectors you need. Contact our team today and stay safe even when the smoke rises!

What are California’s requirements for CO and smoke detectors?

California law requires that smoke alarms must be installed in every bedroom, outside the door of each separate sleeping area, and on every level of the dwelling, including basement, family room, and attic areas. Smoke alarms installed in new buildings must be hardwired with a backup battery. For existing homes, battery-operated smoke alarms are acceptable. 

Carbon monoxide alarms are required in all units that have fossil fuel-burning appliances, fireplaces, or attached garages. A working carbon monoxide detector should be installed in every sleeping area, near the outside of each bedroom, and on every level of the dwelling, including basement and attic areas. Acceptable units can be battery-operated, plug-in with backup batteries, or hardwired with backup batteries.

Are there combined smoke and CO detectors?

Yes! Combined detectors are designed to detect both fires and CO hazards. These devices offer the convenience of dual protection on every level of your home, saving space and simplifying installation.