Test Your Smoke Alarms

7/22/2019 (Permalink)

Do you know how often you should test your smoke alarms?

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, smoke detectors powered by a nine-volt battery and those wired into an electrical system should be tested each month. However, their batteries should be replaced yearly and the entire smoke detector should be replaced every 10 years. Smoke alarms containing a non-replaceable lithium battery should also be tested monthly, but since lithium batteries should not be replaced, the entire alarm should be replaced according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Two basic types of smoke alarms exist: photoelectric and ionization. Each detects different types of fires, so it is recommended to place either one of each in every room or a single smoke alarm in each room that detects both  ionization and photoelectric smoke, also known as a dual sensor smoke alarm.

For you and your family's safety, be sure to test your smoke alarms monthly!