When Should You Change Your Home's Smoke Detector Batteries?

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

Most home fire alarms are designed to alert you when the batteries need changing.

When Should You Replace the Batteries in Your Smoke Detectors?

The smoke alarm in each room of your Lighthouse Point, FL, home alerts you if a fire breaks out, giving you and your family time to leave safely. Since the function of these devices is so important, you may want to make maintaining them properly a priority. Checking the batteries in each smoke detector in your home is an effective way to perform simple maintenance, and there are a few times you can do so.

When the Unit Makes Odd Noises

Most home fire alarms are designed to alert you when the batteries need changing. While sounds may vary for different models, they may include:

• Chirping
• Beeping
• Intermittent tonal notes

If a smoke alarm makes these noises consistently, then change out the batteries and replace the unit. This should stop the alarm sound.

During a Test

Most smoke alarm models come with a test button, and testing the unit at least once a month can let you know whether you need to change out the batteries. You can test each alarm on the first of every month so it becomes a habit. Some newer units have batteries that can last up to 10 years, allowing you to test less often.

After Any Fire Damage

Even a minor fire at your home can damage your fire alarms, so having them inspected by a company that specializes in fire restoration and smoke cleanup can help you decide whether any unit needs replacing in the aftermath. Smoke and heat can damage the alarm's sensors, making them unreliable. In the event of another fire, any affected alarm may fail to sound, so having the batteries and the internal components checked is a wise course of action.

Protecting your Lighthouse Point, FL, home with dependable smoke alarms can reduce the risk of serious and costly damage that comes from smoke and heat. Knowing your alarms work and how to replace and test the batteries may provide you with better peace of mind when it comes to the increased safety of your home and family.