Hi, I'm Alex, the owner of GALAXSAW Handyman Services. After working as a commercial carpenter on large-scale construction projects—including a new Nike facility in Beaverton—I discovered that I enjoy the personal side of construction: helping homeowners, landlords, and local businesses with smaller projects that need attention and quality workmanship.
Today, I provide reliable handyman services throughout the Portland metro area. I specialize in small residential and commercial projects that many larger contractors don't take on, including repairs and installations that can typically be completed in four hours or less. My experience includes electrical and plumbing fixture replacements, PEX-A and PEX-B plumbing work, door lock and hardware installation, door jamb repairs, and many other home maintenance and repair services.
I am proud to be part of the Home Depot Pro Services contractor network and have completed projects for local organizations, including Reynolds School District. I am licensed, bonded, and insured through the Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB #233510).
Whether you are a homeowner, landlord, or property manager, my goal is simple: provide dependable service, clear communication, and quality repairs you can trust.
Thank you for visiting GALAXSAW Handyman Services. I look forward to helping with your next project.
Smoke Detector Installation & Replacement in Portland Metro Oregon
Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are some of the most important safety devices in your home, but they don't last forever and there are several different types available.
GALAXSAW provides smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector installation, replacement, and battery replacement for homeowners throughout the Portland metro area.
Whether you need a new battery-operated alarm installed, an older detector replaced, or simply need the batteries changed in hardwired alarms, we can help.
Different Types of Smoke Detectors
Not all smoke alarms are the same. Before replacing an existing alarm, it's important to understand what you currently have and what type of replacement is appropriate.
Battery-Operated Smoke Alarms
Battery-operated smoke alarms do not require a connection to your home's electrical wiring.
Some use replaceable batteries, while others use sealed long-life batteries designed to last for the life of the alarm.
These can be a convenient option for homes where hardwired alarms are not already installed or where a battery-operated replacement is appropriate for the specific situation.
Hardwired Smoke Alarms
Hardwired smoke alarms receive their primary power from the home's electrical system.
Many hardwired alarms also have a battery backup.
This is important to understand: a hardwired smoke alarm can still need its battery replaced.
The electrical connection powers the alarm during normal operation, while the backup battery helps keep the alarm working if household power is interrupted.
If your hardwired smoke detector is chirping, the battery may be low even though the detector is connected to the electrical system.
Combination Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Some alarms detect smoke and carbon monoxide in the same unit.
These combination smoke/CO alarms can be useful when replacing older separate devices, depending on the existing installation and the requirements for the home.
Smoke alarms detect smoke from a fire. Carbon monoxide alarms detect dangerous levels of carbon monoxide, which cannot be seen or smelled.
The two provide different types of protection.
Smart Smoke & CO Alarms
Smart smoke and carbon monoxide alarms add connected features to traditional alarm systems.
Depending on the model, a smart alarm may connect to your home's Wi-Fi or another smart-home system and can provide features such as:
- Phone notifications
- Low-battery alerts
- Alarm notifications when you're away from home
- Smoke and carbon monoxide detection in one device
- Interconnection with other compatible alarms
- App-based status monitoring
Smart alarms are available in both battery-operated and hardwired configurations, depending on the manufacturer and model.
If you're considering a smart smoke detector for your home, GALAXSAW can help with installation of appropriate devices and make sure the unit is properly mounted and set up within the scope of the installation.
Smoke Detector Battery Replacement
If your smoke alarm is chirping because of a low battery, you don't necessarily need a new smoke detector.
GALAXSAW can replace batteries in compatible smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms, including hardwired smoke alarms with battery backup.
Replacing the battery does not mean the alarm itself is new. Smoke alarms also have a limited service life and should be replaced according to the manufacturer's instructions.
When Should a Smoke Detector Be Replaced?
Smoke alarms don't last forever.
The Oregon State Fire Marshal recommends replacing smoke alarms every 10 years or according to the manufacturer's instructions. Carbon monoxide alarms also have a manufacturer's replacement or end-of-life schedule that should be followed.
If you don't know how old the alarms in your home are, checking the date on the back of the unit is a good place to start.
If several alarms are old, replacing them at the same time can make it easier to keep track of their age and maintenance.
Smoke & CO Detector Installation and Replacement
GALAXSAW can help with:
- Smoke detector installation
- Smoke detector replacement
- Carbon monoxide detector installation
- Combination smoke/CO alarm replacement
- Smart smoke and CO alarm installation
- Battery replacement
- Replacement of aging or expired alarms
- Replacement of existing compatible hardwired alarms
- Other small home safety device installations
If your existing alarm system requires electrical work beyond the scope of our license, we will let you know when a licensed electrician is needed.
Portland Metro Smoke Detector Services
GALAXSAW provides residential handyman and installation services throughout the Portland metro area, including Gresham, Troutdale, Fairview, Wood Village, Portland, Beaverton, Clackamas, Happy Valley, Damascus, Boring, Corbett, Sandy, Oregon City, Gladstone, Milwaukie, Lake Oswego, Tigard, Tualatin, West Linn, and surrounding communities.
Licensed • Insured • Bonded
Oregon CCB #233510
Whether you need new smoke detectors installed, old alarms replaced, batteries changed, or smart smoke/CO alarms installed, contact GALAXSAW with the details of your project.
Specialize in small, 4 hours or less interior projects, and exterior assemblies of any size.
Specialize in small, 4 hours or less interior projects, and exterior assemblies of any size.
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