Testing and Maintenance

Test each smoke alarm monthly by pushing the button.

  • Replace 9 volt and AA batteries in smoke alarms twice a year.  (Remember: change your clocks, change your batteries.)
  • If the alarm “chirps,” warning that the battery is low, replace the battery right away.
  • All smoke alarms have a recommended service life of 10 years. Replace your smoke alarms at this time or sooner if they are not functioning properly. Look for the manufactured date on the back or inside the alarm.
  • Vacuum or dust out cobwebs and dust that have accumulated in smoke alarms at least once per year.