As temperatures drop and homes become more tightly sealed for winter, it is an ideal time to revisit the importance of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. These small devices provide early warnings that can save lives, yet many households do not have enough of them, have outdated units, or place them incorrectly. Taking a few minutes to evaluate your detectors can make your home significantly safer during the colder months and year-round.

The professionals at KM Heating and Cooling recommend using combination units that detect both smoke and carbon monoxide, and note that they work best when installed in the proper locations, including every sleeping area, outside bedrooms, on every level of the home, and in the basement. It is also wise to have a detector in equipment areas, especially in Illinois where furnaces and water heaters are commonly housed indoors.

Carbon monoxide is especially concerning because it is odorless and invisible, earning its reputation as asilent killer. Homeowners with gas-fired appliances such as furnaces, stoves, or water heaters must take this threat seriously. A functioning CO detector offers crucial protection by sounding an alarm before levels become dangerous.

For the highest level of safety, many homeowners choose electric detectors with battery backup. When these units are daisy chained, an alarm in one area triggers alarms throughout the home, providing immediate notice no matter where the issue begins. This system can be especially valuable in larger homes or multi-story layouts.

Regular maintenance is also important. Even the best detectors need yearly battery checks and should be replaced according to manufacturer guidelines. Testing units periodically ensures they are working properly and ready to respond when needed.

These devices are simple, affordable, and essential tools that protect families every day. For assistance in placing, wiring, and testing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, or for more information, please call KM Heating & Cooling at (815) 691-1991 and ask for Dave Kissel.

KM Heating and Cooling

339 Wurlitzer Dr.

DeKalb, IL 60115

Ph: 815-691-1991

KMHeatingandCooling.com