Fire Safety Solutions
Fire Safety Solutions | Smoke Detectors | Electrical | McDonald
From historic brick storefronts on Main Street to newly built family homes along the rolling hills outside town, McDonald trusts HEP to keep every square foot protected. Our licensed electricians design, install, and maintain cutting-edge smoke detectors that sense danger in seconds, sound clear, unmistakable alerts, and can even ping your phone when you’re miles away. Because we’re local, we know McDonald’s building codes, wiring quirks, and climate challenges, so every detector is placed and calibrated for maximum coverage—not just compliance.
With 24/7 monitoring options, seamless integration into existing panels, and proactive battery-life testing, HEP’s fire-safety solutions remove the guesswork and worry from protecting what matters most. Whether you’re renovating a downtown café or outfitting a new industrial facility, choose the team that combines small-town service with big-city technology—choose HEP and breathe easy knowing your smoke detectors are always on guard.
FAQs
What types of smoke detectors do you install in McDonald?
We supply and install ionization, photoelectric, and dual-sensor smoke detectors, as well as combination smoke/CO alarms. All models we carry are UL-listed, comply with Pennsylvania fire codes, and come with a 10-year sealed battery or hard-wired power option with battery backup.
Are hard-wired smoke detectors better than battery-operated models?
Hard-wired detectors are generally recommended because they receive constant power from your home’s electrical system, include a battery backup for outages, and can be interconnected so that all units sound simultaneously. Battery-only units are easier to install in existing structures and still meet code when properly maintained, but they depend entirely on battery power.
How often should I test and replace smoke detector batteries?
Test every detector at least once a month by pressing the “TEST” button until the alarm sounds. For removable 9-volt batteries, replace them twice a year (a common reminder is when you change your clocks). For 10-year sealed lithium batteries, replace the entire detector at the end of its service life or sooner if it chirps to indicate low battery.
Do you offer interconnected smoke detection systems for large homes or businesses?
Yes. We install both hard-wired and wireless RF interconnected systems. When one detector senses smoke, every unit in the network will alarm, giving occupants maximum warning even in remote areas of the property. Wireless interconnected detectors are ideal for retrofits where running new wiring is impractical.
What local codes and regulations apply to smoke detector installation in McDonald?
Allegheny and Washington Counties follow the 2018 International Residential Code (IRC) and NFPA 72. Smoke detectors must be placed inside every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the dwelling, including basements. New constructions require hard-wired, interconnected detectors with battery backup. Existing homes undergoing major renovations must be brought up to current standards.
Can you integrate smoke detectors with my existing fire alarm or smart home system?
Absolutely. We can tie UL-listed smoke detectors into commercial fire alarm panels or residential smart hubs such as Google Nest, Amazon Alexa, and HomeKit. This enables mobile notifications, remote silencing, and automatic actions like turning on lights or unlocking doors during an alarm. Integration is completed in compliance with NFPA 72 to ensure reliability and code adherence.