Call Us Now Pay My Bill

Call Us Now

Titan Alarm Logo

    Author: Taylor

    Fire Alarm Maintenance Can Cut Insurance Costs

    Posted on by Taylor

    As a business owner, you know how important it is to protect your assets and minimize expenses. One critical yet often overlooked aspect of risk management is fire alarm maintenance, which helps you keep occupants safe, comply with safety regulations, lower the risk of fire-related damage and save you on insurance premiums. When you opt for routine fire alarm maintenance, you keep your system functioning to protect your property from damage — making your business an attractive candidate for lower rates. 

    Read on to explore how routine fire alarm maintenance can improve your safety and cut insurance costs, and steps for implementing an effective fire alarm maintenance program.

    The Connection Between Fire Alarm Maintenance and Insurance Costs 

    For commercial property owners, the importance of fire alarm systems and maintenance extends beyond their immediate role in fire detection and safety. These systems also influence insurance premium costs. As insurance companies assess risks associated with insuring your property, having a well-functioning fire alarm system can play a pivotal role in lowering your insurance costs.

    Insurance Premium Reduction

    The relationship between fire alarm systems and insurance premiums is grounded in risk mitigation. Insurance companies strive to minimize risk and, in turn, view fire alarm systems as essential in preventing or reducing the severity of fires. Consequently, they typically deem properties with effective firm alarms low risk, reflecting lower insurance premiums.

    For example, say you’re a retail shop owner who regularly maintains your fire alarm system, experiencing fewer false alarms and actual fire incidents. The proactive approach leads to a clean claims history over three years, prompting your insurer to reduce premiums by 25% during the policy renewal process. By investing in proactive fire alarm maintenance plans, you save money in the long run to reinvest in your business.

    Is a Smoke Detector a Fire Alarm for Insurance Purposes?

    While smoke detectors play a crucial role in fire safety, they are not considered equivalent to fire alarms for insurance purposes. Commercial smoke alarms are designed to detect smoke and signal an alarm when smoke is present but often cannot immediately notify emergency services. 

    In contrast, fire alarm systems are more comprehensive, featuring smoke detectors, heat sensors, manual pull stations and notification devices. Many are connected to a monitoring service to notify emergency responders. Insurers typically offer lower premiums or special discounts and incentives for properties equipped with robust fire alarm systems than those with only smoke detectors. 

    Importance of Fire Alarm Maintenance 

    Fire alarm maintenance can help protect your property and assets, comply with safety regulations and prevent costly penalties. The following are the benefits of maintaining your fire alarm system and steps you can follow to meet regulations.

    Fire Safety and Prevention

    Well-functioning commercial fire alarm systems play a key role in preventing fire damage by detecting smoke, heat or flames and sending out alerts before the fire spreads. These systems include smoke and heat sensors, which can detect the first signs of a fire and help occupants evacuate the building in time. Many systems also integrate with sprinkler systems to control flames and notify emergency services.

    However, the fire protection granted to your business is only as good as your fire alarm system, so you must keep it functioning and in good condition. Over time, dust, dirt and other debris can build up inside your fire alarm detector’s sensing elements, causing it to malfunction. The system may not be sensitive enough to send out prompt warnings during a fire. Fire alarm maintenance companies can maintain and test your system to ensure its reliability in fire safety and prevention.

    Compliance With Safety Regulations

    Your business can avoid citations and fines by complying with local and national safety regulations and implementing a fire alarm maintenance program. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulates that all businesses do the following to make sure fire alarm systems perform as expected:

    • Operate and maintain your system in working condition and ensure it is always on.
    • Test and adjust fire detectors and alarm systems to ensure they work correctly and reliably.
    • Replace or clean and recalibrate unreliable detectors or detectors with reduced sensitivity.
    • Properly clean dust, dirt or other particulates at regular intervals.
    • Have a qualified person service, maintain and test all fire alarm systems.

    Scheduling professional fire alarm maintenance services makes adhering to these local and national standards and avoiding costly penalties easier. Qualified technicians can inspect your system, perform routine maintenance and prevent minor issues from becoming hazardous.

    How to Implement Effective Fire Alarm Maintenance Plans 

    For business owners, investing in a comprehensive fire alarm maintenance plan can lead to substantial savings on insurance costs, prevent costly damage or penalties and reduce the risk of injuries or lawsuits in the event of a fire. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends annual fire alarm inspections, testing and maintenance to ensure your system works properly:

    • System inspections: Fire alarm service companies like Titan Alarm & Fire will come to your business and follow a comprehensive inspection checklist as outlined by OSHA and other regulatory bodies. During these inspections, they’ll identify and address common issues to ensure your fire alarm system functions correctly. 
    • Preventative maintenance plans: A professional, structured fire alarm maintenance plan is crucial in complying with safety regulations and keeping your occupants and assets safe. Only qualified technicians, especially those with specific training and certification in fire alarm systems, should install, test and maintain commercial fire alarm systems. 
    • Audits: A fire alarm system audit systematically assesses your building’s fire alarm system. The evaluation can determine its compliance with fire safety regulations and standards, the system’s effectiveness and recommended improvements.

    Selecting a reliable service provider is essential in getting quality fire alarm services. Titan Alarm & Fire will inspect your fire alarm system and its components, perform maintenance and ensure it’s up and running to protect your business and maximize cost savings.

    Partner With Titan Alarm & Fire for Expert Fire Alarm Support and Maintenance

    Ensure your fire alarm system is correctly functioning to protect your business, cut insurance costs and give you peace of mind. Titan Alarm & Fire emerged in the commercial fire and security market in 2010, safeguarding homes and businesses with reliable services and quality safety products. Our experts perform fire alarm maintenance services, including inspections, testing and troubleshooting to detect and correct potential system issues before they become expensive — and potentially life-threatening — problems.

    We take pride in being a family-owned business that is 100% local to Arizona. We look forward to partnering with you. Contact us today for expert fire alarm support and services.

    How Often Do Schools Need to Check Fire Alarms?

    Posted on by Taylor

    Whether you’re a small private academy, charter school or large public university, a fire can cause extensive damage — and lead to death. As an educational institution, you are responsible for more than just academics. You are also responsible for the health and safety of all your students and staff. 

    Because a fire can happen anywhere and at any time, it’s crucial to have a fire plan in place to protect everyone at your school. With proper training and the right fire alarm and sprinkler systems, you can experience peace of mind knowing you can minimize fire threats and be alerted if a fire starts on the property.

    Understanding Fire Alarm Regulations in Schools

    When it comes to fire alarms for schools, there are certain regulations you need to make sure you’re following to keep students and faculty safe and in compliance. 

    Overview of School Fire Safety Protocols

    A fire can break out in the school cafeteria from a cooking accident or in the science lab from an experiment gone wrong. No matter how or where the fire originates, though, it’s important to adhere to fire safety policies. Even a small spark or flame can quickly become a real threat to the entire school. 

    Having fire safety policies in place will keep the entire school on the same page. Everyone will know what’s expected when it comes to minimizing cooking hazards to knowing how hazardous materials should be labeled, handled and stored. 

    Code Requirements and Compliance

    While installing fire sprinkler systems or adding fire extinguishers throughout the campus is a great first step, schools need to make sure they are following both local and national fire safety codes. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standards outline the different system requirements and inspections that your school will need to follow. 

    Depending on where the school is located, local fire codes will also need to be considered. Different school levels have their own safety compliance regulations, so staying up-to-date on any changes is crucial. 

    Inspection Frequency and Maintenance Strategies

    Regularly inspecting and scheduling fire alarm maintenance services ensures your system stays fully functional year-round. To keep everything safe and secure, you can incorporate several best practices and strategies into your maintenance plan.

    How Often Should Fire Alarms Be Checked?

    Once your fire alarm system is installed, you don’t just want to leave it alone. Even if you have a high-quality, reliable system, it’s a good idea to perform monthly checks to make sure there are no visible issues or damage.

    As part of your fire alarm maintenance plan, you should also schedule annual professional inspections. During these inspections, a professional will look for potential issues and make any necessary repairs. 

    Scheduled Inspections and Record Keeping

    Once a professional has looked at various components — from the smoke detectors to the alarms to the sprinklers — to make sure everything is in good working order, they’ll make note of everything they’ve inspected. They’ll keep track of all the components that have been tested and any repair work that they completed while they were out.

    Maintaining fire alarm inspection records is an important part of staying on top of potential issues and keeping your system operating at peak performance throughout the year. 

    Equipment and Preventive Maintenance

    Depending on your fire safety needs and goals, there are several different types of equipment you can use to keep your school safe, including: 

    • Fire alarms: With fire alarm systems designed especially for commercial properties, you can feel confident knowing your entire school will be monitored. Whether you opt for a traditional system or a wireless system, you can take advantage of benefits like 24/7 monitoring to keep the entire property protected while class is in session and out. 
    • Fire extinguishers: Having fire extinguishers in convenient locations throughout your school ensures you have a way to quickly stop a fire and keep it from spreading. Because different types of fires require different classes of fire extinguishers, ensure you have the right ones in areas like the kitchens, science labs and electrical rooms. 
    • Sprinkler systems: Especially in large buildings like schools, a sprinkler system can quickly spring into action and help keep a fire under control until the fire department arrives. Sprinkler systems are designed with sensors that detect fires, which then start the flow of water to stop the fire.

    No matter what type of fire equipment you install, it’s crucial to keep up with preventive maintenance. Having a fire maintenance plan ensures it operates reliably throughout the year. Your system should be inspected, cleaned and tested by a professional to ensure everything is working as it should. These routine maintenance tasks also help extend the life span of your system, protecting your investment for many years to come. 

    Alarm Testing Protocols and Emergency Preparedness

    Even with the best system in place, you should ensure that you have alarm testing protocols and an emergency preparedness plan.

    Fire Safety Check and Inspection Procedures

    Depending on the type of alarm you have installed in your school, the inspection process could look different. The main focus of the inspection will be on making sure everything is in good working order and in compliance with the NFPA standards. 

    There are different testing protocols for various types of alarms, which is why it’s important to work with a professional company that can review all the components and systems. A fire system inspection company will likely conduct a thorough inspection of all of the different parts, including:

    • Disconnect switches
    • Power supply
    • Control unit
    • Fuses

    Preparing for Emergencies

    Especially in a school setting, you need to develop and practice evacuation plans. In the event a fire breaks out, the large number of students and faculty attempting to flee the building at once can quickly become chaotic. Having a clear plan ahead of time helps ensure that everyone is able to leave the building in a more orderly fashion, keeping as many people as possible safe.

    Having regular fire safety training for school staff will help evacuations run more smoothly because there will be set individuals overseeing the process. You’ll increase the chances of saving lives when you have a set plan in place for emergency situations.  

    Partner With an Industry-Leading Fire Service Company in Arizona 

    The safety of students at schools is just as important as the quality of the education and extracurricular activities. Regularly inspecting your fire alarms ensures students and faculty stay protected throughout the school year and can thrive academically in a safe environment. 

    Partnering with an industry-leading fire service company like Titan Alarm & Fire allows you to experience peace of mind knowing your school is protected with an advanced fire alarm system. As a locally owned and operated full-service business, we are committed to learning more about your needs and developing a customized system that works best for you and your community.

    With our free consultations, it’s never been easier to learn more about our fully automated systems. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and get started. 

    The Essentials of Carbon Monoxide Monitoring for Businesses

    Posted on by Taylor

    As a business owner, you’ve likely considered installing security and monitoring systems to keep your employees and premises safe from accidents, fires and intruders. Carbon monoxide is another significant but preventable industrial safety hazard, so you must know how this toxic, flammable gas can become a threat and how to mitigate it. Read this guide to get answers to essential carbon monoxide safety questions and learn how to protect your assets.

    Why Should Businesses Monitor Carbon Monoxide Levels?

    When fossil fuels like oil, propane, natural gas and coal burn, they release carbon monoxide gas, a substance harmful to humans in low amounts and deadly when more abundant. The gas has earned the nickname “the silent killer” because it is colorless and odorless, so people only realize it’s there once they feel its harmful effects. You should monitor your CO levels for three crucial reasons.

    1. Ensure Employee and Customer Safety

    Carbon monoxide poisoning hospitalizes over 14,000 people annually. When someone inhales carbon monoxide, it binds to hemoglobin in their bloodstream, taking up the space where oxygen should be. That leads to hypoxia that can cause headaches, nausea, disorientation, vision loss, heart problems, brain damage and even death in previously healthy people. Those with chronic health problems like anemia, heart disease and asthma are at even higher risk of injury.

    2. Protect Property and Smooth Operations

    Your facility, equipment and products are at risk if too much carbon monoxide is in the air. Excess CO can speed up corrosion in high temperatures through a chemical process called metal dusting, shortening the life span of pipes, fans, vehicles and other metal equipment. High carbon monoxide levels may also interfere with sensitive instruments like sensors and electronics, and it could compromise your products’ quality.

    3. Comply With State and Federal Safety Regulations

    The U.S. has several federal and state laws to regulate carbon monoxide monitoring for businesses.

    • The Americans With Disabilities Act: The Americans With Disabilities Act states that employers must provide a safe and healthy work environment for all their employees, including those with medical conditions. Any workplace at risk of CO contamination should proactively protect their staff, especially chronically ill people who are more medically vulnerable.

    • U.S. labor laws: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration prohibits enclosed workspaces from having more than an average of 50 parts per million of carbon monoxide over an eight-hour period. They also require regular carbon monoxide testing with certified equipment.

    • National Fire Protection Association standards: The 2024 NFPA 101 Life Safety Code includes new guidelines for including carbon monoxide detection devices in commercial buildings to meet building code requirements.

    • The Federal Clean Air Act: The Federal Clean Air Act aims to prevent air pollution by regulating toxic gases, including carbon monoxide. It highlights the importance of responsible ventilation and proper monitoring of CO levels indoors and outdoors.

    • State, county, and city regulations: Most states now require workplaces to have carbon monoxide detectors. Even in states without explicit requirements, counties and cities often have air quality rules, like Arizona’s Maricopa County emission regulations.

    Which Industries Are at High Risk for Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?

    While all businesses should furnish their premises with carbon monoxide detectors, some are at elevated risk. Businesses that burn fuel for heating, cooking or transportation should be extra vigilant about their CO levels. These industries are particularly susceptible to carbon monoxide pollution.

    • Factories and warehouses: Manufacturing and storage facilities often use vehicles like forklifts and generators powered by fossil fuels, emitting toxic fumes.

    • Restaurants and industrial kitchens: Gas stoves powered by propane or natural gas could malfunction or leak, releasing carbon monoxide as a byproduct.

    • Hotels and in-patient clinics: Communal living facilities usually have heating systems like furnaces and boilers that run on oil or gas, which could cause CO buildup without adequate maintenance.

    • Indoor parking garages: Cars, trucks, motorbikes and scooters all produce carbon monoxide as a byproduct, so improperly ventilated parking garages quickly fill with toxic gas.

    How Can You Prevent CO-Related Industrial Safety Hazards?

    You should take four crucial steps to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning in your staff and clients and protect your equipment from damage.

    1. Implement Staff Training and Safety Protocols

    Teach your employees how to safely operate machinery and what to do if a malfunction or mistake happens. Provide staff with information on the first signs of carbon monoxide poisoning — shortness of breath, fatigue, headaches and nausea — and give them specific instructions about who to call and where to go if CO levels spike.

    2. Ensure Your Workplace Is Well-Ventilated

    Inadequate ventilation is a top cause of carbon monoxide poisoning, particularly in places with many gas-powered vehicles or machines that run on combustion. Vents and extractor fans remove CO buildup from the area and send it outside. While you should still address the cause of the buildup if something goes wrong, proper ventilation lessens the damage.

    3. Conduct Regular Maintenance and Inspections

    All vehicles, equipment and machinery that run on fossil fuels should receive regular maintenance to ensure they’re safe to use. You should also have your ventilation systems inspected and repaired at least once a year — twice if you run an at-risk facility like a factory, hotel or restaurant.

    4. Install Modern Gas Detection Technologies

    Installing wireless detection devices throughout your building is the most critical step you can take to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning as a business decision-maker. These detectors can read CO levels in the air using a sensor that houses a chemical reaction. The stronger the chemical reaction, the higher the electrical current it produces, letting you know if there is a dangerous amount of carbon monoxide in the air.

    Which Carbon Monoxide Detector Should You Install?

    The best CO monitors for businesses sound an alarm when they detect unsafe levels. Anyone inside the building can immediately evacuate to protect their health, and you’ll know that you need to resolve an issue like faulty equipment, a lack of ventilation or a leak. However, not all CO monitoring alarms are equal, so choose a reputable, certified company and avoid purchasing cheap detectors through online shopping outlets.

    Wireless Detection Devices Built Into Your Security System

    An even better option is to work with a company like Titan Fire & Alarm that installs security and monitoring systems as an integrated unit. If your smoke alarm, security alarm and carbon monoxide detector are all part of the same system, you’ll save time, effort and space while building a steadfast relationship with a single company you can trust and rely on. You can also use a convenient smartphone app to monitor your business from anywhere in the world.

    Rely on Titan Alarm & Fire to Preserve Your Business’ Safety

    Titan Fire & Alarm stays ahead of emerging trends in security and monitoring systems to provide our clients with the most efficient, streamlined service possible. If your business is in Phoenix, Tucson or the surrounding communities, we can fortify your Arizona premises with wireless detection devices, alarms and preventive solutions for carbon monoxide, fire, intrusions and much more. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and enter the new age of integrated, all-in-one security systems.

    The Importance of Fire Inspections for Commercial Buildings

    Posted on by Taylor

    Did you know that more than 100,000 fires occurred in nonresidential buildings in 2021? The ability to detect and address different signs of a fire can save lives and property — but your fire alarm system can only keep your building and its occupants safe when it works.

    By conducting routine fire alarm inspections and taking other key measures, you can identify fire system hazards and maintain the integrity of your building’s system.

    Why Fire Safety in Commercial Buildings Matters

    No matter your business’s industry, creating a safe atmosphere for tenants, customers and employees is crucial. It’s your responsibility to put effective measures in place to protect anyone who visits your property. A comprehensive fire alarm system can play a major role in keeping patrons and staff safe, alerting them to fire hazards and assisting in mitigating fires until the authorities arrive.

    These alarm systems feature various basic components that work together to detect and address fires. For example, smoke detectors and heat sensors can pickup on common fire signs, and indicating elements like bells and strobe lights warn individuals in the vicinity about said signs. This way, they can take prompt action to mitigate the fire when safe to do so or evacuate and contact local fire services.

    What happens when commercial building owners don’t test and maintain their fire alarm systems? Everyone who spends time in the building is at risk of experiencing the effects of a fire. At the same time, building owners can face costly legal issues. As a result, commercial fire inspections are a necessary part of operating a business.

    The Most Common Fire Alarm System Issues Detected During Inspections

    A fire alarm system can be complicated and intricate, especially in larger buildings with unique layouts. Fortunately, knowing common fire alarm system issues can help you locate them faster, allowing you to make the correct fixes the first time. Through regular fire inspections, commercial building owners can detect various system issues:

    • Corrosion: Depending on the building, fire alarm systems may become exposed to moisture and water, leading to corrosion and rust. These issues can cause crucial components to fail, which is a major concern in an emergency. When conducting an inspection, check for corroded or rusted parts so you can replace them.
    • Dust: Though dust may not seem like it can cause much damage, dust buildup can particularly affect detection systems, causing the system to falsely trigger or fail to trigger at all. Be sure your system is clean of all debris to ensure it works properly.
    • Wear: Over time, fire alarm systems will wear down with use and environmental exposure. During inspections, you should take note of visual signs of damage and test essential parts, replacing components that have worn down too much.
    • Aging: If your building is several decades old, the fire alarm system may not have experienced updates in some time. An outdated system might not be up to code or feature the latest safety technology. Consider updating your fire system to ensure compliance and protection. Typically, business owners should replace systems when they’re more than 15 years old.

    Conducting visual inspections yourself can help you address small issues, but you should always have a professional complete a thorough fire alarm inspection for the best results.

    Legal Implications of Neglecting Fire Alarm Inspections for Commercial Properties

    As mentioned, commercial fire alarm systems must comply with specific fire safety regulations. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) provides extensive guidelines, particularly the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, that commercial buildings must follow when installing and maintaining fire alarm systems. Ensuring your system meets NFPA 72 fire safety standards and your local fire code keeps you compliant and safe.

    Keep in mind that inspections play a major role in maintaining compliance. When you work with an inspection team to review the system and make the necessary updates, you can avoid potential legal issues that may come with falling out of compliance, such as fines. These professionals can help you understand your legal fire safety obligations, which can vary based on your building’s location.

    How to Build a Comprehensive Fire Alarm Maintenance Plan

    Keeping on top of your fire system is much easier when you have a dedicated plan in place. A crucial part of your safety plan is maintenance — understanding fire alarm system maintenance and when to take certain measures can be the difference between an operational system and one that poses risks. Specifically, preventive maintenance is crucial.

    With regular annual inspections, you take consistent measures to repair and improve your system, helping ensure you avoid significant malfunctions down the line. For example, regularly testing your alarms can help you locate issues with noise levels or visual cues, and you can fix them to make sure they’re loud and bright enough to properly alert occupants. In comparison, reactive maintenance can be highly costly — waiting for a part to break before you fix it defeats the purpose of your emergency system.

    Depending on your system’s features, you might incorporate the following steps into your safety plan:

    • Conduct a quick daily system review.
    • Test one detection point weekly on an alternating basis.
    • Check that fire doors open and shut correctly weekly.
    • Take a few minutes weekly to ensure alarms sound properly.
    • Fix any leaks in the sprinkler system and take measures to prevent pipes from freezing in cold weather.
    • Check system batteries monthly and replace them accordingly.
    • Verify fire extinguisher expiration dates every quarter.
    • Schedule thorough professional fire system inspections yearly.

    Having the right team on your side can make a notable difference in the creation and execution of your safety plan. If you aren’t sure where to begin, consult professionals to build the best plan for your specific business. This way, you can pay attention to the right parts of your system at the right intervals, allowing your business to intercept issues with ease.

    Titan Alarm & Fire Is Your Partner in Fire Safety in Arizona

    Contact Titan Alarm for commercial fire inspections

    Titan Alarm & Fire can meet your commercial fire safety needs. Whether you’re interested in routine fire inspections or would like us to help you design, install and maintain your system all the way through, our skilled team is ready to help. Understanding fire alarm systems at a basic level can also help you look after yours better, and we’re happy to help answer your questions about how your equipment might work.

    With our group of commercial building fire safety experts on your side, you can ensure compliance and create a safe environment. Explore our array of comprehensive fire and smoke protection services to learn more. Schedule a consultation today to get started making your commercial building safer!

    How to Clean and Maintain Your Kitchen Hood

    Posted on by Taylor

    Your kitchen hood can be easily overlooked when cleaning. However, this is an area you definitely should be cleaning to keep your home safe from germs, bacteria, and fire hazards. The hood itself can be easily cleaned if you make a regular habit of it, although it may require some harsher chemicals than your regular surface cleaner at first. Then, depending on what type you have, you can easily clean or replace the hood’s filter on a less frequent basis.

    How often should you clean your kitchen range hood

     If you cook daily, the inside and outside of the hood and the filter should be cleaned monthly. If you aren’t a frequent chef, seasonal cleaning will be sufficient. Always plan to clean the filter after preparing a holiday feast even if you don’t clean the rest of the hood.

    As the fan and suction draw the grease and food particulates up into the ductwork, they naturally cling to the surfaces. Cleaning is essential to not only make the hood look and smell better but to also prevent a house fire. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), cooking is the leading cause of injuries in residential fires and the fourth leading cause after carelessness, smoking, and electrical problems of all residential fires. The statistics are even more dramatic for commercial kitchens. When a pot or pan is left on the stovetop for too long, flames can appear and may leap up into a greasy range hood causing extensive structural damage.

    Troubleshooting


    A good way to test the vent on your device is to cut a small square of newspaper and hold it over the vent. If the newspaper is sucked up and held in place, your vent hood should be fine.

    Every specific model of range hood is unique. If you are having difficulty diagnosing issues on your own, try looking up the model number of your unit. This way you’ll find information about common problems that will occur with your particular model.


    Ways to clean your kitchen hood

    Clean the air filter – the air filter is the part of your vent hood that removes particulates and smoke from the air before pushing it outside of your house or recirculating it. There are two kinds of filters: a metal filter and a charcoal filter. Both of these kinds of filters can be easily removed for cleaning or replacement.

    If you have a metal filter, simply remove it, and then put it in a small bin or appropriate container filled with enough degreasing solution to cover the filter completely. Once all the grease has been dissolved, give it a thorough wash in warm, soapy water. For good measure, put it in the top rack of a dishwasher. Before re-attaching it, make sure it is completely dry.

    If you have a charcoal filter, the removal process will be much the same. The only difference is that you can’t clean one of these filters. It is a good idea to replace a charcoal filter annually, or whenever it begins to lose effectiveness.

    Clean the range hood itself – this process is rather simple. Make sure you have the unit turned off and your stove top is not hot or turned on. A household cleaning spray or degreaser will be perfect for regular clean-ups. Just remember to use a non-abrasive variety. Do not spray the cleaner on to the light bulb or any other electrical components.

    Clean the vent  – you should check the vent leading from your hood to outside on a regular basis. Grease can sometimes build up in this vent, impairing functionality and potentially causing a fire hazard. If the grease is building up in this part of your vent, it is important to contact a cleaning professional as soon as possible to clean it properly.

    Clean the fan or replace the motor – the fan motor is generally durable enough that it will not need maintenance, but you should still examine every part of your vent hood when you do check-ups. Sometimes the motor or even the bearings themselves can be exposed to excessive humidity and grease, and will not function properly. A definite sign of this is if the motor is acting up as described in the first tip above. More often than not, it is the blower wheel that has collected dirt and grease. You can remove this part and clean it with a degreaser. If this does not solve your problem, you will most likely need to get the motor replaced.

    Preventative Measures

    Stopping issues before they happen is always the best idea. To prolong the health of your range hood, you should:

    • Clean your fan blades on occasion to prevent buildup of dirt and grease. This will help avoid excess stress on your motor and keep it from overheating.

    • Wash the exposed metal often. Warm suds will usually suffice. If surfaces get really greasy, a solution of ammonia and water will do the trick. Just make sure to rinse thoroughly after using this method.

    • Regularly check the vent to keep air flow unrestricted. If you allow grease to build up, it can pose a fire hazard.

    • Clean the filter frequently as it is the part that will collect grease the fastest.

    Following these tips will help your kitchen hood last a long time and effectively perform the job of keeping your kitchen smoke free and clean.

    Contant Titan Alarm to learn more about Kitchen Hood Systems

    Benefits of Smart Locks

    Posted on by Taylor

    As technology continues to advance, we are finding new and better ways to protect ourselves, our belongings and our assets. One of the best innovations in security that’s gaining popularity is the keyless system that strongly simplifies the entry procedures to your home or office. Also known as smart locks, they provide a level of convenience and customization that can’t be had with traditional locking mechanisms, all while not compromising security. 

    Here are just a few ways smart locks can change your daily life.

    Never lose your keys again

    House keys stand among the most commonly misplaced items. So it is more convenient that you don’t have to keep track of yet another key or worry about how to pass off the key to someone else.

    The entire idea of a smart lock (and every smart-home device, really) is to add convenience to your life. For smart locks, that includes features like remote access, voice control and scenes. With Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit and Amazon Alexa, you can set up scenes like “OK Google, goodnight” that dim the lights, adjust the thermostat and lock your front door. 

    You can control your smart lock remotely when it is connected to Wi-Fi. More often than not, that means purchasing a small, plug-in Wi-Fi bridge to connect the lock to your network. Once you’ve done so, you’ll be able to lock or unlock your door from anywhere you have an internet connection. Forgot to lock the door when you left for that business trip this morning? A connected lock will alert you when your door is left open or unlocked. 

    Prevent lockouts

    It happens to the best of us, especially these days with juggling so many things at one time: locking yourself out of your house. If this issue sounds all too familiar, then you’re in luck. Smart locks can help you eliminate the chance of getting locked out. Smart locks use an app to control your locks. With an internet connection and a smartphone or any smart device with you, you can lock and unlock your doors anytime, anywhere. 

    Ability to send E-keys

    Did a relative show up early, or are you stuck at the office when someone needs to get in the house? Do you have a vendor visiting your business? With smart locks, you can send an E-key to those who need access to your home or office. 

    Convenience for the Disabled or Elderly
    With a smart lock, those who are handicapped can gain easy access to your home and business. It also provides ease of access for those who cannot easily grip a key due to arthritis or other issues.


    Better Security


    There are many ways to pick a lock. The old solution was to come out with a new lock, that would then be cracked for burglars to pick. Today, you can install a smart lock. This keyless entry gives would-be robbers no way to access the deadbolt.

    You can also have convenience such as a remote monitoring or tie your smart lock into a full-home or full-office security system. This way, you can receive alerts about suspicious activity.

    Contact Titan Alarm to Learn More About Keyless Door Locks

    As one of the top home security companies in Phoenix and Tucson, AZ, Titan Alarm Inc. can provide you with a fully integrated security solution that includes state-of-the-art keyless door locks. Feel free to contact us for more information and to schedule a no-obligation in-home consultation today.

    Ways to Keep Your Kids Safe Online

    Posted on by Taylor

    The internet is a great place to hang out. Not only can all sorts of information be found there (some correct, some not so much), but it’s also a great way to stay in touch with friends and family.

    Sadly, the internet is also a dangerous place to hang out – particularly for children.

    Cyber stalkers, child molesters, inappropriate content, cyber bullies and more are lurking, waiting for an opportunity to reach out to your children. Such an experience could possibly damage a child for the rest of their life.

    Here’s a few tips to keep your children away from online dangers. 

    Place your computers in a common area of the house

    Don’t allow kids to have a computer in their room. You’d be surprised by how much the mere presence of a parent who may or may not be looking over a child’s shoulder while they use the computer can keep a child in line. They have no way of knowing if your eyes actually are good enough to see across the room, now do they? Make sure the computer’s screen is visible from other parts of the room, and isn’t turned toward a wall.

    Spend time online with your kids

    Make browsing the web a family thing (just like watching television was for most of us when we were kids). Hang out with your kids and help them with their homework online, searching for information together. But, make sure to put the Google search filter on “safe.”

    Have a conversation with your children

    Kids are getting their first internet-connected gadgets at pretty young ages. So start talking to them early. Warn them about malware, dangerous websites, and sex offenders. Let your kids know you’re looking out for them, speak honestly with them, and listen. After all, if it’s just you talking, it’s not a conversation. It’s a lecture. And no one likes a lecture.

    Know your children’s passwords

    If you’ve got a younger kid, create an account for them in your own name to avoid exposing your kid’s name — and so you’ll have the password. But please respect the age limitations on accounts. If a site says you should be 18 to sign up, then maybe your child should wait. Whatever your choice, though, make sure you get their passwords and warn them that you’ll be checking their accounts from time to time to make sure everything’s kosher. (Spying on your kids’ accounts without their knowledge could weaken their trust in you.)

    Check your children’s browsing history

    Open your child’s web browser and look for “History” to see a list of websites they’ve been to. Also check the recycle bin to see if any files have been deleted. You may be surprised.


    Set reasonable time and usage limits


    Set rules about what your child can and can’t do when on the internet. Set time limits on their computer use. If they say they’re researching homework, maybe you don’t include that in the time limits. But make sure they’re actually using it for homework.


    Set parental controls

     

    You can’t be around all the time to monitor your children’s internet usage. One of the best things you can do to prevent your kids from visiting sites that are not appropriate to them  is to set parental controls. Check with your Internet Service Provider for any parental controls, blocking and filtering tools they may offer to make the internet a safer place for your younger family members.

    Prevent False Alarms at Home

    Posted on by Taylor

    Despite advanced technology, false alarms do happen occasionally. This can be a result of faulty equipment, dead batteries, improper installation, user error, or any number of other issues. There can be fines of up to $200 associated with repeated false alarms, but proper system use and maintenance can help you avoid those hefty expenses.

    Here are some tips to reduce chances of false alarms:

    Arm and disarm the system properly

    It’s important to arm and disarm your system properly, as improper use of the system is one of the main reasons there are false alarms to begin with. Disarming and arming systems accounted for 38 percent of all false alarms. Keep track of everyone who has the code. If you aren’t convinced you’ll remember the code, try to choose a system that comes with remote key fobs that will arm or disarm the system instead. Still, even fob holders will need to know the code as a backup in case the key fob batteries fail you.

    Choose the right equipment

    It’s a good idea to choose cameras that come with smart features, such as motion detection and people detection. Having those types of detectors ensures the camera won’t send you an alert because your pet was strolling across the room or a car was driving by on the street. 

    Keep the area around motion sensor clear

    Objects like balls rolling past sensors can set the alarm off. Balloons are notorious for causing false alarms when they float by. Keep the area free of clutter and tie down anything that could be blown around by the air conditioner.

    Keep batteries fresh

    Change the batteries in your home security equipment regularly. Low batteries can lead to false alarms. Typically, the equipment will notify you that the batteries are running low, but it’s not a bad idea to consult with your monitoring company to see if it recommends regular battery tests.

    Keep devices well-maintained & up-to-date

    It’s as important to choose the right devices as it is to maintain them. If you aren’t making sure your safety gadgets work, you won’t know when they aren’t working, either.

    Educate houseguests

    If you have people over, let them know how the alarm system works. You’d be surprised at how easy it is for a friend or family member to accidentally trigger the alarm, and if you aren’t readily available to tell the monitoring company that it isn’t a real emergency, you’ll end up with emergency personnel at your door.

    Learn More About Home Security

    Benefits of Security Cameras

    Posted on by Taylor

    One of the most important qualities for any professional endeavor is a secure environment. Being able to monitor activity helps owners ensure their business stays safe. Security cameras are a major asset for commercial operations of all sizes. Having high-quality cameras in the right locations can be very beneficial. Getting a security system from wholesale security camera distributors may help companies reduce shrink and protect the individuals at their facility. 

    Here are some of the benefits of having business security cameras: 


    Deter theft and crime

    One of the biggest benefits of security cameras is deterring crime and theft. People are less likely to commit a crime if they know they are being watched. In addition to random theft, employees may steal from a business. Although many business owners don’t like to think that their employees would steal from them, it does happen. Having footage can help give you the proof you need to catch the thief, plus the evidence can be used in court if needed.


    Protection against burglary

    60.5% of burglaries are forcible entry. Many people believe that burglaries are simply “crimes of opportunity. However, statistics show, the majority of burglaries are actually forcible entries (breaking windows, picking locks, kicking in doors, etc.). A good security system, including surveillance security cameras, can be a great deterrent for these types of crimes.

    Monitor activity

    No one is capable of being everywhere at once, but security cameras allow you to keep a constant eye on your business. They are beneficial for monitoring the day-to-day activities and operations of employees and visitors. This can be especially beneficial for remote sites and when a manager isn’t present at all times. Maybe you’re dealing with productivity problems, punctuality issues, or conflicts between employees. Security cameras can help boost efficiency and productivity as well as provide the evidence needed to resolve conflicts.

    Avoid legal claims and fraud

    Avoid costly legal expenses from false or dishonest claims. One of the worst fears of any business is being sued. Whether an accident, injury, harassment or other legal issue occurs on site, having video evidence can prove what actually took place

    Business compliance

    Many types of businesses must have a video surveillance system in place to comply with HIPPA or SEC regulations as well as internal corporate policies.

    Reduce the need for hiring additional security personnel

    Because employees, managers, and supervisors cannot be everywhere at once, a video surveillance system monitors productivity without the added expense of hiring additional personnel.

    Monitor customer transactions

    Retail establishments use video surveillance to monitor customer transactions. For example, if a customer claims to have purchased an expensive item but does not have the receipt, or that an employee was rude or provided misinformation, video surveillance records can be used to determine whether they were in the store on the day in question, and what, in fact, took place. Create a safer workplace By installing security cameras at your entrances/exits and in your parking lots, you are creating a safer workplace. Your employees will feel safer, and you’re more likely to prevent vehicle break-ins and vandalism. Having security cameras can also help prevent harassment and other inappropriate behavior among employees. There are many benefits to installing security cameras in and around your business. If you’re curious which cameras would be most beneficial for your business, contact the experts at Titan Alarm.

    How to Make Your Home Safe for the Elderly

    Posted on by Taylor

    Our homes provide comfort, familiarity, and feelings of continued independence and security. So, having a senior continue to live at home makes sense. But in order to safely share one’s home with an elderly parent, families must take into consideration potential safety issues that may arise. Depending on the health and mobility of the elderly family member in question, one’s home may require minor or major adjustments to ensure that all residents are safe from accidental injury.

    Prevent falls and injuries

    For seniors, accidental falls are a serious problem and the leading cause of broken bones, head injuries, cuts, and bruises. However, these risks can be mitigated by taking certain precautions. To start, it’s important that the family recognizes the common causes of senior falls.

    Poor lighting and decreased vision are common culprits. Not only does a person’s eyesight change as they age, but other conditions may affect their ability to see clearly. To counter decreased vision, families should add more lighting or brighter lights if necessary.

    In addition to poor lighting, slippery floors or area rugs that move may be dangerous. Toys from pets and children can create clutter and become tripping hazards, as well. It’s important to make sure that walkways are kept clear to reduce the risk of a parent stumbling or tripping.

    Easy access

    Accessibility can be a problem for one’s parents if they have difficulty moving without a walker or wheelchair. This can be resolved with the installation of a ramp leading to the front or a side door. Doorways will also need to be widened to 6 inches or wider to allow wheelchairs to pass through easily. To make doors easier to open for people with arthritis, change handles from knobs to levers.

    Educate family members

    When moving an older family member into one’s home, it’s important that all residents understand what to do in the event of a medical emergency. Establish a protocol that includes everyone taking classes for basic CPR and first aid. The family should be taught how to recognize the signs of a medical emergency, including those for serious problems such as a heart attack or stroke, and should know when to call 911. It could also be a good idea to keep a list of all the senior resident’s medical conditions, along with the names of their doctors and medications.

    Check on them frequently

    Home safety for seniors means checking in with your loved one. You, your loved one’s neighbors, and a professional caregiver can help to make sure they are safe.

    Another great option is to install cameras around the house so you can monitor your elederly loved ones even when you’re at work or away from home. 

     

    To learn more about security cameras and home automation, contact Titan Alarm.

    Schedule a
    Consultation Today!

    Schedule a Consultation