How to Change the Batteries in Smoke Detectors When Changing the Clocks Back

Fire departments and smoke alarm manufacturers recommend changing the batteries in your smoke detectors once a year. This ensures that a smoke detector is fully operational and able to warn you in the event of a fire. One simple way to remember to change your batteries once a year is to change them when you set the clocks back every autumn. The process for changing the battery will vary according to the make of smoke detector you have. Virtually all smoke detectors use batteries, including models that are hard-wired into the home's electrical system.

Things You'll Need

Step stool

Replacement batteries ( AA, AAA or 9-volt)

Instructions

- 1
  Position a step stool under the smoke detector so that you can reach it comfortably.
- 2
  Look for a battery door on the side of the smoke detector. In most models, you simply push the battery door with your finger and release it to open the door and reveal the battery.
- 3
  Remove the cover, if your smoke detector has a cover and no door on the side. Smoke detector covers usually unscrew or unsnap from the main unit to reveal the battery compartment.
- 4
  Twist the entire unit counterclockwise to unlock the detector from the mounting base. Units that are hard-wired into the electrical system have this type of mounting base, as do some battery-operated units. The battery door is normally on the top of the detector where it meets the mounting base.
- 5
  Open the battery door on your detector once you find it on your unit. Pull the battery out of the compartment if the battery is AA or AAA. If you have a 9-volt battery, disconnect the wire terminal connector from the top of the battery and remove the battery.
- 6
  Install the new battery into the battery compartment and close the battery compartment door. Reinstall the detector if it mounts to a mounting plate or uses a cover to access the battery.
- 7
  Press the small test button on the bottom of the fire detector to test the battery. A loud beep should sound when you press the button.

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