A smoke detector is a device that senses smoke and alerts you to the fire's presence. Knowing how to change the battery is vital as a maintenance step and for your safety if you own a smoke detector. Chirping and short beeps usually show battery change time in a smoke detector and should be looked into immediately. Knowing the way to change the battery can be quite handy despite the type of smoke detector you own.
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors also need to be maintained well to make them last longer. You can read our smoke and carbon monoxide detector maintenance guide to learn more.
How To Change Smoke Detector Battery?
Remove the Cover
Most of the smoke detectors like First Alert BRK SC9120B come with a plastic cover over the battery slot. While some of them come with a clip, some are attached with screws. Open the cover accordingly.
Place the Battery
Remove the old battery and place the new one. Remember to match the positive and negative sides of the battery as labeled in the battery slot.
Test the Alarm
Locate the test button and check if the smoke detector works well once the battery is successfully installed. A few minutes of pressing the button should do the trick.
The customer reviews of X-sense 2-in-1 Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector Alarm show that it is one of the best-rated smoke detectors that you can consider buying.
Why do You Need to Change Smoke Detector Battery?
Smoke detectors are safety appliances capable of saving your lives in events of hazards and accidents. Smoke detectors will not detect and smoke or fire if they are not functioning well due to battery issues. This might lead to casualties and damages. Changing the battery of smoke detectors on time is crucial for your own safety and your house and loved ones. You should replace the battery immediately for a better response once the smoke detector chirps to alert about the low battery.
How Often Should You Replace the Smoke Detector Battery?
Changing the battery on time will help prevent the malfunctioning of the smoke detector and keep you safe despite the type of smoke alarm you have. The battery should be replaced yearly be it a 9-volt battery smoke alarm or mains alarm with a 9-volt hard-wired battery backup. There are experts who claim that it is better to change the battery two times a year.
It is also important to understand the working of a smoke detector to use it properly. You can read our blog on how do smoke detectors work to know more.
Tips for Changing Smoke Detector Batteries
- It is advisable to change the smoke alarm battery two times a year. It is best if you can set a reminder to change the battery. This way you will never put your safety at risk.
- It is advisable to change the battery yearly in a hard-wired unit.
- It is necessary to replace the smoke detector every 10 years compulsorily.
- Calculate the expiry by checking the back of the device to see the manufacture's date.
- Check the CO alarms and fire extinguishers yearly
- Place a smoke detector inside each bedroom, sleeping room, every level in case it is a multi-story building, stairwells, bathroom, and kitchens.
- A 10-years old sealed lithium-ion smoke detectors' batteries can never be replaced. Disposing of the entire unit responsibly is the right way to go about it.
How Long Does Smoke Detector Battery Last?
Batteries like 9V alkaline and AA alkaline last for 12-18 months. Lithium batteries on the other hand last for 5x longer than alkaline batteries. They usually have a lifespan of 5 years. The battery of a smoke detector should be regularly changed after a period of time to ensure proper functioning. Kidde i4618 Firex Hardwire Ionization's reviews claim that it comes with a nice battery backup.
What Kind Of Battery Do Smoke Detectors Take?
9V batteries have been the choice of batteries for smoke detectors for years. You can find AA batteries these days. They last 3x more than 9V batteries. Another type of battery that smoke detectors take is a lithium battery. It lasts for the longest time.
Do Smoke Detectors Work Without Battery?
Smoke detectors cannot work without batteries. There are some models that are hardwired and draw power from your home's electricity. Most of the models come with a 9 volt or 10-year lithium battery. It is important to replace the battery when required to ensure proper functioning. You can also read our blog on wired vs wireless smoke detectors to have a better understanding.
Conclusion
Smoke detectors are great appliances for contemporary homes as modern homes are often equipped with other appliances. This puts the houses at a greater risk. Make sure to place a smoke detector at least 6 to 12 inches away from a wall. The detector is either battery-powered or hardwired to the household electrical system.
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