How to Test and Replace Faulty Smoke Alarms
Quick answer: Test every smoke alarm at least once a month. For alarms with replaceable batteries, U.S. Fire Administration guidance says to replace those batteries at least once a year, or immediately when a low-battery warning occurs. If a replaceable-battery alarm still fails after a fresh battery, replace the alarm itself. A smoke alarm should also be replaced 10 years after its date of manufacture, while combination smoke/carbon monoxide alarms should follow the manufacturer's replacement instructions. Table of Contents Start With the Type of Smoke Alarm You Have How to Test a Smoke Alarm Correctly What to Do When the Test Button Produces No Alarm When to Replace a Removable Smoke Alarm Battery Why a Smoke Alarm May Keep Chirping Why Chirping Can Appear Mainly at Night How to Handle a 10-Year Sealed-Battery Alarm Check the Manufacture Date, Not Just When You Installed It Hardwired Smoke Alarms Still Need Maintenance Do Not Disable an Alarm Because Cooking Sets I...