How to Troubleshoot Smoke Alarms

A smoke alarm is one of those appliances you want to troubleshoot before it breaks down. Otherwise, it may fail to sound when you need it most. Test your alarm monthly to ensure it's working: Depress the test button to see if it sounds, then hold a smoldering candle near the sensor. To perform a smoke test on an alarm that's mounted on a vertical wall, use a piece of paper to fan the smoke into the alarm.

Instructions

- 1
  If the alarm is chirping, replace the battery. The chirping is the result of a weak battery. In fact, you should be changing the battery once a year.
- 2
  Clean in and around the alarm with a vacuum hose and brush attachment. Sometimes, dust and insects can clog the alarm's sensor causing that chirping noise. Clogging can also prevent the alarm from sounding when being tested. Other times, a dirty alarm sensor can trigger the alarm when it shouldn't be going off.
- 3
  Make sure the alarm is located in the proper position and hooked up correctly. If the alarm is mounted in the wrong position, it can trigger the sensors when there is no sign of smoke. Smoke alarms should be at least 20 feet from ovens and furnaces, and at least 10 feet from high-humidity areas like bathroom.
- 4
  Check the connections underneath the alarm's casing. Loose connections can cause sporadic functionality. If the wires appear damaged or are dead, you'll need to have the entire alarm replaced.

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