When you think of smart home devices, your first thought might be asking Alexa or Google Assist to switch on the lights or TV. But these devices are not intended to act as sentinels against fire and water damage.
Your home is not only your most valuable asset but also the storehouse of all your most treasured memories like photos, artwork, and other keepsakes. Even more important are the lives of you, your family, and your pets.
Below are some of the latest smart home devices you can install to help prevent flood damage and fire damage.
Smart Smoke Detectors
You should already have smoke detectors fitted in multiple rooms of your house. There is no doubt these products have reduced the number of deaths from house fires across America. According to the NFPA, almost three of every five home fire deaths resulted from fires in homes with no smoke alarms (40%) or no smoke alarms that were working (17%).
But they are only one level of protection. Smart technology has given the humble smoke detector a makeover. Smart smoke detectors provide you with a higher level of protection and peace of mind. The new generation of smoke detectors pairs with a mobile app to send an alert to your smartphone whenever it detects anything unusual, even a low battery.
Smart smoke detectors can also incorporate into your home’s security system, which sends an alert to you and the fire department. Some makers of smart smoke detectors will switch off your HVAC unit if it detects smoke to prevent smoke particles from blowing around the home.
Smart Fire Detectors
Smart fire detectors work similarly. They will send an alert when the indoor temperature reaches a pre-determined level. They can also send an alert when there is a sudden or unexpected rise in temperature.
It isn’t advisable to swap your smoke detectors for smart fire detectors; instead, use a combination of both.
Smart Water Leak Detectors
Water leaks are sneaky, and happen while you’ve been away from home. The water damages your property, grows hazardous bacteria, and produces toxic mold. By the time you have discovered visible signs of a water leak, the damage is done.
Smart water leak detectors are battery-powered devices that look similar to smoke detectors. You can affix them near plumbing fixtures or areas that could develop leaks such as bathtubs, toilets, washing machines, refrigerators, dishwashers, and kitchen sinks.
When it detects high moisture or water, the water leak detector will set off an alarm or send an alert to your smartphone.
Smart Batteries
If you have standard smoke detectors in your home (and don’t wish to replace them with smart smoke detectors), then smart batteries are the next best thing. They can be installed in smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and water leak detectors to turn them into smart devices.
The smart battery will send an alert to your smartphone when a detector goes off or when the battery needs replacement.
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A Note About Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon Monoxide is a colorless, odorless toxic gas. It is a byproduct of burning carbon fuels such as gas from your stove or gasoline in your car. Usually, burning these fuels in well-ventilated or open spaces doesn’t pose a risk.
In confined spaces such as kitchens or garages, carbon monoxide exposure can lead to permanent damage or death. A carbon monoxide detector is the best way to identify it and protect your family. They are easy to install and come in a range of prices for every budget.
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This is not a comprehensive list of smart home devices. We haven’t touched on smart stovetop devices or smart outlets, for instance. Installing these smart home devices will go a long way to give you peace of mind and a measure of protection for your home.
Remember, if preventing fire or water damage hasn’t worked, then call ATH Restorations to get your home back to its pre-damaged condition, quickly and effectively.
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Related:
6 Ways to Prevent Electrical Fires