How to Clear False Fire Alarms

False alarms are usually caused by the poor location of a smoke alarm or dirt fouling it. You may need to relocate or clean the alarm. Keep alarms away from drafty areas. Steamy bathrooms and cooking in the kitchen can cause the alarm to go off. Avoid humid areas. Don't place the device within 20 feet of a fuel-burning source. Keep it five feet from a cooking stove. Keep it 10 feet from a shower or laundry.

Instructions

- 1
  Press the "Test/Silence" button when the device sounds.
- 2
  Remove the alarm from the wall or ceiling.
- 3
  Clean it with a soft, clean cloth. You can also vacuum it using a soft brush attachment, but don't overreach on a ladder. You may find it easier to take the alarm down
- 4
  Re-install the alarm and see if that fixes the trouble. If you continue to get false alarms, relocate the alarm. The alarm should be position more than 4 inches from a ceiling/wall join.
- 5
  Replace the detector if you continue to get false alarms after relocating it.

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