One of the things that makes Mt. Lebanon special is the pride residents take in their homes. Many have been cared for by generations of the same family, and that tradition of stewardship continues today.

Still, even the most conscientious homeowners can’t be expected to remember every maintenance task. Knowing what needs attention, when it should be done and why it matters can be just as challenging as completing the work itself.

That’s the goal of “The Home Beat”, a new monthly column by Jordan Smoke of Homelio. Each month, Smoke will share practical advice to help homeowners better understand the systems that keep their homes safe, efficient and well-maintained.

Your Smoke Detector Has an Expiration Date

Most homeowners don’t ignore maintenance because they don’t care. More often, they’re simply unsure what should be done, when it should be be done or how often.

Replace the furnace filter. Flush the water heater. Clean the dryer vent. Clear the gutters. Test the smoke alarms.

None of these tasks is especially difficult, but together they create a growing list of responsibilities competing with work, family and everyday life.

That’s why many home maintenance problems begin not with neglect, but with uncertainty.

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are a perfect example.

When an alarm chirps, most people replace the battery. Some even test their alarms once or twice a year. Both are important, but neither tells the whole story.

The battery powers the alarm. The sensor is what detects smoke or carbon monoxide. Like any electronic component, that sensor loses reliability over time. Most manufacturers recommend replacing the entire detector after 10 years, although some models have shorter service lives.

When a smoke or carbon monoxide detector is needed, it instantly becomes one of the most important safety devices in your home.

This month, take a few minutes to check the manufacture date printed on the back of each detector. If it’s approaching 10 years old, it’s time to replace it — even if it still beeps and appears to be working properly.