How to Clean a Smoke Detector Per the NFPA 72

An improperly maintained smoke detector can be extremely dangerous, so it is important to clean them when necessary. These sensitive devices collect dirt, debris, insects and cobwebs and can go off unexpectedly and fail completely in the event of a fire. The National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, addressed in NFPA 72, provides guidelines for cleaning your unit. This ensures that it performs at the highest level to improve safety.

Instructions

- 1
  Remove your smoke detector from the mounting bracket by turning it counter-clockwise. If your smoke detector latches on to the mounting bracket, pull it off until it snaps out of place.
- 2
  Inspect the batteries. If you have been hearing a continuous beeping or chirping sound every few seconds, insert new batteries into the battery compartment. In most smoke detectors, this sound is a low battery warning.
- 3
  Hold your smoke detector on its side to see the gaps between the top and lower covers. Vacuum the gap area to remove insects, dust and debris from the sensor. If you can see the sensor, pay more attention to it. The sensor generally looks like a small tin can with slots in in. It may look slightly different in some smoke detector models, so refer to your unit's manual.
- 4
  Blow a can of compressed air into the gap areas to remove dust, debris and insects from the sensor if you prefer not to vacuum it. Do not clean your smoke detector with solvents because they can cause the alarm to go on.
- 5
  Reset your device. To do so, press the "Reset" or "Test" button for at least 10 to 15 seconds. The alarm should go on. If your smoke detector does not have any of these buttons, refer to your user manual for the proper reset method.
- 6
  Attach your alarm back to the mounting bracket.

Why Does My Smoke Detector Go Off When There Is No Smoke?

How to Wire an AC Powered Smoke Alarm

Smoke Detectors