Latest Smoke Detectors Are More Sensitive
QUESTION: I want to replace my old smoke detectors with new, more-sensitive ones, especially in my children’s bedrooms. What is the best type to buy and are the 110-volt super-sensitive models expensive to operate?
ANSWER: Although most smoke detectors look alike, new models have improvements in sensitivity and convenience. In addition to the 110-volt house current detectors with battery backup (cost less than a penny a day to operate), there are new 9-volt battery models that have additional safety features.
Fire experts state that you often have only two minutes to escape a house after a fire starts. Just 30 seconds earlier warning from a more-sensitive detector can give you time to get your children out safely. At less than $20, replacing an old smoke detector is inexpensive insurance.
There are two smoke-sensing technologies commonly used in residential detectors--photoelectric and ionization. Both are available in 9-volt battery and 110-volt house current models. Many of the 110-volt models provide networking. If one detector senses smoke, all the detectors beep.
One new small detector, with a rechargeable battery, screws into a hallway light fixture. You screw the light bulb back into the detector. Normal use of the hall light keeps the battery recharged (battery life is six years).
Photoelectric detectors are more sensitive and provide a quicker alarm to slow smoldering fires (large smoke particles). A cigarette dropped on a bed or a slow fire inside a wall typically produces this type of smoke.
Ionization detectors (using radioactive materials) respond quicker to fast-burning fires--stove grease fires or burning newspapers. Choose a double-chamber design, which eliminates the effect of humidity on the sensitivity.
For the greatest protection, you can select a dual technology detector. This senses smoke from both types of fires quickly. With dual technology, there is also much less chance of annoying false alarms.
For use in rooms with high ceilings or in other hard-to-reach areas, there are smoke detectors with light-actuated battery test switches. You just shine a flashlight beam at it and it beeps if the battery is still good.
If you cook like I do, install a kitchen detector with a “hush” button to lower the sensitivity for three to seven minutes. Push this button if you accidentally burn food on the stove so the alarm won’t drive you crazy.
For the hearing impaired, choose a detector with a combination visual and audible alarm. If it senses smoke, a high-intensity strobe light flashes. This is detected by your eye, even while you sleep, and awakens you.
Write for Utility Bills Update No. 705 for a user’s guide of new smoke detectors manufacturers listing models, sensing technology, prices, new features and family fire safety precaution tips. Please include $2 handling fee--cash or check--and a self-addressed envelope. Mail to James Dulley, Los Angeles Times, 6906 Royalgreen Drive, Cincinnati, Ohio 45244. Allow three to four weeks for delivery.
Microwave Exhaust Fan Causing Draft
Q: We have a built-in microwave oven with a built-in exhaust fan underneath it. Besides losing heat, we can sometimes feel a cold draft blowing in from underneath it. How can we stop this?
A: Although you don’t feel a breeze in the summer, it is wasting energy then too. Put some type of vent opening cover, similar to a clothes dryer vent cover, over the end of the vent. This involves going up into your attic to find the end. These are often just vented inside the attic.
Check with the microwave manufacturer first about the power of the blower. It may not be powerful enough to open a tight-sealing cover. Even if it does not seal tightly, a lightweight plastic flapper helps.
Proper Size for Furnace and Air Conditioner
Q: I plan to replace my central air conditioner and furnace soon. Is there any rule of thumb to determine the size units that I need?
A: No. You should always have a contractor do a computerized analysis. Don’t accept an “experienced guess.” The energy needs of a house depend on too many variables for just an estimate. A furnace is rated by the heat content of the fuel it consumes. You can install a smaller high-efficiency furnace because it produces more usable heat from the same amount of fuel as a larger, less-efficient one.
