How to Stop a False Smoke Alarm

Your smoke detector may sometimes give a false alarm when there is no real fire or danger. You can stop a false alarm by moving your unit to a different location or pressing the test, pause or hush button. Meanwhile, false smoke alarms can often be prevented by keeping your unit clean of dirt, dust and debris.

Vacuum cleaner
Wand attachment
Damp cloth

Instructions

- 1
  Prevent a false smoke alarm by keeping the unit clean (see Reference 1). Use a vacuum cleaner with a wand or soft brush attachment to clean the cover and sides. Make sure all vents are clear of debris; turn off the power to your unit and use a damp cloth to clean the cover.
- 2
  Move the unit to another location if you constantly get false alarms. Try moving the smoke alarm from the ceiling to a wall -- between 4-12 inches from the ceiling. Move the smoke alarm from your kitchen to a nearby hallway if the alarm frequently goes off while cooking (see Reference 1).
- 3
  Stop a false smoke alarm by pressing the test button. The alarm beeps a few times or chirps intermittently once the test button is pressed and the alarm resets itself (see Reference 1).

How to Disengage a Smoke Alarm or Stop It

What Are the Different Types of Smoke Alarms That First Alert Makes?

Smoke Detectors