How to Detect a Low Battery on a Smoke Alarm

Smoke alarms give us some peace of mind. When installed properly and kept in good working order, a smoke alarm can warn you of the presence of a fire in your home. Smoke alarms are especially useful at night when you may be unaware of a fire. They work by detecting traces of gas or smoke particles in the air. Smoke alarms may be electric with backup batteries or may be operated solely by batteries. Alarms should be tested regularly to make sure they are operational and that the batteries are still functioning.

Things You'll Need

Smoke alarm
Long pole

Batteries

Instructions

- 1
  Test your alarm every month.
- 2
  Push the test button on the alarm using a long pole or long-handled broom. If the alarm goes off, the alarm is working and the battery is still functioning.
- 3
  Replace the battery if the alarm does not sound. Be sure that the battery snaps completely into position .
- 4
  Push the test button again. If the alarm does not sound at this time, the alarm is defective and should be replaced.
- 5
  Change batteries in your smoke alarms every six months. Change the batteries when you change your clocks for Daylight Savings time in the fall and spring as an easy reminder.
- 6
  Change batteries when your alarm "chirps" or beeps. This is the built-in warning of a low battery in smoke alarms.
- 7
  Replace the smoke alarm after 10 years. The effectiveness of smoke alarms decreases after that length of time.

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