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You should change the batteries in your smoke detectors at least once per year. Mark it on your calendar or make it a holiday or birthday tradition so that you always remember it. You should also be testing your smoke alarms monthly to ensure they’re working properly and can alert you in case of an emergency.

Wood-burning fireplaces typically make homeowners insurance more expensive, simply because they increase the risk for a fire in your home. Gas and electric inserts are less likely to bring up your insurance rates, but you should always speak with your agent to understand how installing any type of fireplace will affect your premiums.

Signs that your dryer is about to catch fire include a burning smell or the dryer and the clothes getting hotter than usual. If this happens, turn the dryer off immediately and call a repair professional. Another less urgent sign is that your clothes are taking longer to dry than normal. If this is the case, check the lint trap, vent, and duct to make sure they are all clean. If they are, you may need to call a pro to find the source of the issue.

There are several maintenance tips you should take to ensure your pellet stove's safety and proper maintenance. You should vacuum the ash pan every week to prevent overflowing and clean the stove and surrounding vents every three to four months. It’s also important to get a professional inspection every year and install a carbon monoxide detector close to your stove. Be sure to dispose of hot ashes in a closed metal container; store it outside, away from the house. Only use the pellets recommended by your stove's manufacturer, and follow any cleaning and maintenance instructions.