In another embodiment, hazard detection system 300 can apply heuristics to self-adjust the constant. For example, conditions may persist that keep triggering pre-alarms, but the conditions do not rise to alarming levels. In response to such persistent pre-alarm triggering, hazard detection system 300 can modify the constant so that the pre-alarms are not so easily triggered. In yet another embodiment, the constant can be changed in response to a software update. For example, a remote server may analyze data acquired from several other hazard detection systems and adjust the constant accordingly, and push the new constant to hazard detection system 300 via a software update. In addition, the remote server can also push down constants based on user settings or user preferences to hazard detection system 300. For example, the home owner may be able to define a limited number of settings by directly interacting with hazard detection system 300. However, the home owner may be able to define an unlimited number of settings by interacting with, for example, a web-based program hosted by the remote server. Based on the settings, the remote server can push down one or more appropriate constants.