It won’t be long till Daylight Saving Time ends. It’s a good idea to check the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors because you’ll already be turning your clocks back. Learn more here about the many smoke and carbon monoxide detector types that are available, as well as maintenance advice.
WHAT KINDS OF SMOKE AND CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS ARE THERE?
Battery-Operated – These gadgets are totally powered by disposable batteries that may be replaced when they run out of power.
10-year Detectors – This smoke and carbon monoxide detector comes with a non-removable lithium battery that is guaranteed to survive for ten years. Following that, the entire gadget must be replaced. There is an increasing trend toward sealed detectors, with many jurisdictions mandating them over battery-powered ones.
Hardwired Detector – A hardwired detector is one that is physically connected to your home’s electrical system. They are powered by electricity, but feature a backup battery that allows them to continue running in the event of a power loss.
HOW DO I CHECK THE BATTERIES IN A SMOKE DETECTOR?
It is advised that you inspect your smoke detectors once a month. When you press the test button on the device, it will momentarily sound the alarm. If the alarm does not sound or does not appear to be loud enough, change the batteries and try it again.
If you still don’t hear anything, your smoke detector is most likely defective, and you’ll need to replace the complete device. If a 10-year or hardwired system fails to function, the complete device must be replaced.
HOW DO I CHECK THE BATTERIES IN A CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR?
Checking a carbon monoxide detector is very similar to testing a smoke detector and should be conducted once a month. Locate and press the test button. Your carbon monoxide detector will either beep multiple times or sound an alarm for several seconds, depending on the type. If the alarm does not sound or is too quiet, change the batteries and try it again.
If you have a sealed or hardwired model that no longer functions, you must replace it as soon as possible. Keep in mind that the procedure mentioned above only verifies whether the device’s battery and electronics are operational. To test the detector’s CO sensor, purchase a CO detector test spray and follow the directions on the package.
HOW DO I TURN OFF MY SMOKE DETECTOR?
A beeping or chirping sound from your smoke or carbon monoxide detector indicates that the battery is low. The problem should be resolved by replacing the battery. If you don’t have any spare batteries, make sure you purchase some before removing the existing one so you don’t forget to replace it. A chirping sound indicates that it is time to replace a 10-year system.
HOW LONG WILL SMOKE AND CO DETECTORS LAST?
Experts advise upgrading smoke detectors every ten years and carbon monoxide detectors every seven years. Locate the manufacturing date on the back of the device and add 10 years (7 in the case of carbon monoxide detectors) to that date to determine the replacement date.
HOW DO I REPLACE SMOKE OR CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR BATTERIES?
It is simple to replace the batteries in your home alarm systems. Simply follow these few instructions. Please keep in mind that if you have a hardwired smoke or carbon monoxide detector, you must switch off the electricity at the circuit breaker before working on it. It is advised that you change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors at least once a year, regardless of the type.
Step 1: Remove the Device’s Cover
The majority of smoke and CO detectors will have a twist-open lid. Other versions will require manual removal or may have a plastic lock that must be opened with a screwdriver. The right procedure for removing the cover will be provided in the user’s manual or on the manufacturer’s website.
Step 2: Replace the battery
Replace the old battery with a new one, being sure to align the positive and negative connections with the device’s markings. Check that the new battery is compatible with your exact gadget model. For example, if your smoke detector requires 9-volt batteries, don’t try with a different size.
Checking your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors to make sure they are functioning properly is one of the large list of things HomeSmiles can do at your home during an 18 point thorough inspection and maintenance in your home. To book an appointment at a time that is convenient for you, contact us today.
