Yellow smoke detectors are not just a cosmetic issue; they are an important safety measure. Smoke detectors give a warning signal when smoke is present, which can alert you to the danger of a fire and give you time to evacuate. The yellow coloring of smoke detectors often indicates that the device has reached the end of its life and needs to be replaced. This is important because smoke detectors can become less effective over time, leading to false alarms or missing a real fire. It is important to regularly check and replace your smoke detectors to ensure your safety.
Many consumer-grade products that are made of plastic, like smoke alarms, are injected with a chemical called bromine. Brominated flame retardants (BFRs) are common in plastics and are used to reduce the flammability of the consumer products they permeate. As a side effect, this additive turns the polymer yellow over time as it is exposed to heat, oxygen, and UV light. The fact that the yellowing color-change effect of some smoke alarms is a warning sign that they may need to be replaced is incredibly helpful. It's great that manufacturers have provided us with this extra level of safety, even if it wasn't their original intent.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends that smoke alarms in the home be replaced at least every 10 years. The yellowing roughly corresponds to its shelf life. It’s a reminder to go shopping for new smoke alarms to keep the home’s occupants safe. Replacing your smoke alarms every 10 years is a great way to keep your home and its occupants safe. The yellowing of the smoke alarm can serve as a reminder that it is time to go out and purchase new ones. It is important to research different smoke alarms to make sure you are getting the best one for your home. Make sure to check the expiration date, as some smoke alarms may not last 10 years. Additionally, test your smoke alarms regularly to ensure they are working properly. It is also important to install smoke alarms in all bedrooms, hallways, and other areas of the home. Following these recommendations can help keep your home and its occupants safe.
If you're looking for a way to keep your family safe from fire, hiring us to replace your smoke detectors is a great step in the right direction. Our service is quick, reliable and competitively priced. Get in touch today to find out more about how we can help keep your family safe. If you are not sure if your smoke detectors need replaced, we can inspect them for you. Call/Text 208-490-6713 or request a service call online https://www.onecallps.com/request-work