Smoke detectors are required by the residential electrical code nearly everywhere, and for good reason: Research demonstrates that smoke detectors save lives and property by alerting occupants to early, smoldering fires. House fires often begin so quietly that occupants have no idea that the home is on fire until it is too late. Smoke may kill occupants long before flames are visible. Smoke detectors remain awake all day and all night, continually sensing even the faintest evidence of smoke and fire.
Smoke detectors work correctly only when they have a continuous electrical charge, which can be provided in one of two ways. Smoke detectors come in two styles: battery-only smoke...
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