Do Smoke Detectors Go Bad?

Last updated on June 27th, 2022 at 10:25 am

Smoke detectors are an important part of any home safety plan, but what happens when they stop working? A broken smoke detector can be a real danger. Not only will it not alert you to a fire, but it could also delay your ability to get out of the house in an emergency.

So, do smoke detectors go bad? The answer is yes, and that’s why it’s important to test your smoke detectors regularly and replace them when they start to malfunction.

In this article, we’ll discuss some of the signs that your smoke detector is no longer working properly, what you can do to keep your family safe and how can you repair it. So, let’s get started.

What are the signs that your smoke detector is no longer working properly?

Signs that your smoke detector is no longer working properly can be difficult to spot. However, there are a few things you can look for:

• The smoke detector keeps going off for no apparent reason.
• Even after replacing the battery, there is still random chirping.
• The smoke detector’s alarm is not activated when the test button is pressed.
• The last time you replaced the battery in your smoke detector, was less than a year ago.
• Cooking smoke, burning toast, humidity, and other factors have increased the sensitivity of your smoke detector.
• Your smoke detector is more than 10 years old

How to assess/check your smoke detector?

To check if your smoke detector is still working properly, you can do a few things:

• Check expiry date

All smoke detectors have an expiry date. You can find this on the back of the smoke detector or in the manual. If your smoke detector is more than 10 years old, it’s time to replace it. This date is mentioned on the back of your smoke detector.

• Test the alarm

Most smoke detectors have a test button that will emit a loud sound when pressed. This is a good way to test if your smoke detector’s alarm is still working.

• Change the batteries

If your smoke detector is beeping, it’s time to change the batteries. Replace the battery (if it’s a smoke detector with a 9-volt battery that can be removed). Using a moist cloth and general-purpose cleanser, clean the outside of the alarm.

Use another towel to apply a tiny amount of bug surface spray on the face of the alarm and the surrounding ceiling. Insects will be less likely to enter your home if you follow this advice.

Press the alarm button to test it. If the alarm still doesn’t sound, it’s time to replace your smoke detector.

Why do most smoke detectors stop working earlier than 10 years?

There are a few reasons why most smoke detectors stop working earlier than 10 years:

• The batteries die

The most common reason why smoke detectors stop working is that the batteries die. If you don’t change the batteries regularly, your smoke detector will eventually stop working.

• Clogged with dust and cobwebs

They become clogged with dust and cobwebs. Over time, these can build up and block the sensor, preventing it from working properly.

• Insects nest in them

Insects can also nest in smoke detectors, preventing them from working properly. So, if you see insects near your smoke detector, it’s time to clean it or replace it.

• Wiring problems

Wires can become loose or damaged which can cause smoke detectors to stop working because they are not receiving the power they need to function.

What you can do to keep your family safe when the detector is not working?

If your smoke detector is not working, there are a few things you can do to keep your family safe:

Install a carbon monoxide detector

If you have a gas stove, it’s important to install a carbon monoxide detector in your home. Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas that can be deadly. So, if your smoke detector is not working, a carbon monoxide detector will be your first line of defense.

Create a fire escape plan

Every family should have a fire escape plan. This is a plan of how you will get out of your home if there is a fire. Make sure everyone in your family knows the plan and practice it regularly.

If you have small children, make sure they know what to do if there is a fire. Teach them how to stop, drop, and roll.

Pack an emergency kit

An emergency kit is a bag that has everything you need in case of an emergency. Some things you may want to include in your emergency kit are:

• A flashlight
• Batteries
• A first aid kit
• A whistle
• Non-perishable food
• Water

Conclusion

A working smoke detector is a vital part of any home safety plan, so it’s important to know when they go bad and how to fix them. Regular testing and replacement can help ensure that your family is safe in the event of a fire.

In the guide, we have discussed the most common reasons why smoke detectors stop working and what you can do to keep your family safe when the detector is not working. We have also answered some frequently asked questions about smoke detectors.

FAQs

What is the most common reason why smoke detectors stop working?

The most common reason why smoke detectors stop working is that the batteries die. If you don’t change the batteries regularly, your smoke detector will eventually stop working.

How often should you test and replace your smoke detector?

You should test your smoke detector monthly and replace the batteries at least once a year. You should also replace your smoke detector every 10 years.

What should you do if your smoke detector is not working?

If your smoke detector is not working, as we mentioned above, there are a few things you can do to keep your family safe: install a carbon monoxide detector, create a fire escape plan, and pack an emergency kit.