smoke detector will do its job – detect small amounts of smoke and sound an
alarm, if the proper maintenance is taken. Follow the manufacturer instructions that come with your smoke detector. Some suggestions are listed below:
To find out how to test your smoke detector, read the manufacturer’s
Most smoke detectors have a button that you press; if the smoke detector is working, the alarm will beep. If you hear only a chirp or nothing at all, you need to replace the battery.
Dust often collects in smoke detectors, and it can cause the smoke detector to
a false alarm. The easiest way to remove this dust is to take the top off of the smoke detector and vacuum the inside, using the drapery-cleaning attachment of a vacuum cleaner.
The average 9-volt battery needs to be replaced after one year of ‘service’ in your family’s smoke detector. Multi-year batteries, used in some newer smoke detectors, should be maintained as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
Replace the Whole Detector. Even with good upkeep, most smoke detectors have a
life span of ten years. Remove the smoke detector, follow the manufacturer’s
directions for disposing of the smoke detector, and replace it with a brand new smoke detector. Some newer smoke detectors have their ten-year anniversary imprinted on
the cover; if you are unsure of your smoke detector’s age, it is always better to error on the side of safety.