Steaming is Hot
By Marcello (our guest guy writer)
Q: Is it safe to use a steaming iron machine near a fire alarm? I have been told the steam can set it off?
- Curious in her PJ’s, New Jersey
Dear Curious: Apparently, just about any hot vapor can set off a fire alarm, or, more specifically, a smoke detector. Thankfully, newer models are less prone to be fooled by such things as kitchen heat or hairspray.
Can you smoke a cigarette or light a candle near one? Yes. But you’re asking for some high-pitched trouble if you take a hot shower on a cold day and open the door to the bathroom. The immediate temperature and humidity change could set a detector off.
As for your steaming iron - I’m guessing that’s one big ass iron you’ve got there. It’s probably best to steam your shirts a few feet away, or employ a room fan to dissipate the steam.
Have a question of your own to ask our guy? Send it to Marcello at [email protected]
February 24th, 2011 by Ali
