Smoke alarms are one of the most important things in your home, but when was the last time you checked on yours? Most people do not realize that smoke alarms are not an install and done thing and need to be maintained. Most manufacturers have instructions on how to maintain your smoke alarms but there are some general rules of thumb.
-Your smoke alarm should be tested once a month using the test button
– Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to clean your smoke alarm to keep them working well
– Batteries should be changed in your smoke alarms once a year. If the alarm chips indicating the battery is low before that, replace them immediately.
– Some smoke alarms have non-replaceable 10-year batteries. If these chirp before 10 years, the entire smoke alarm should be replaced immediately.
– Smoke alarms should be replaced completely every 10 years.
Some homes have interconnected smoke alarms. When changing the batteries in one, make sure you change the batteries in all of them or they will continue to go off (don’t forget the one in the basement and the attic!)