Most of us know we should test our smoke alarms regularly. But there’s another important check that’s surprisingly easy to overlook:
How old are your smoke alarms? Smoke alarms don't last forever. Even if an older alarm still sounds when you press the test button, that doesn't necessarily mean it should remain in service indefinitely.
I was reminded of this on a recent domestic electrical job when I came across two smoke alarms that were years beyond their replacement date. One was positioned at the bottom of the stairs and another at the top. Both were replaced with modern Aico alarms featuring sealed 10-year lithium batteries.
It was a relatively straightforward job, but an important one — and it's something I'd encourage homeowners around Burnham-on-Sea, Highbridge and Somerset to check in their own homes.
How Do I Know If My Smoke Alarm Is Out of Date?
Start by looking at the alarm itself.
Depending on the manufacturer, you'll normally find manufacturing, installation or replacement information printed on the alarm or its label. You may need to carefully remove the alarm from its base to see it.
If the alarm has reached the manufacturer's stated end-of-life or replacement date, it should be replaced.
It's worth remembering that pressing the test button primarily checks that the alarm's electronics, sounder and power source can operate. It isn't a reason to ignore the manufacturer's replacement interval.
Why Replace an Alarm That Still Appears to Work?
Smoke alarms contain sensing components that can deteriorate as they age.
That's why manufacturers specify a service life for their products rather than recommending that homeowners simply keep them until they stop working.
A smoke alarm is a relatively small part of a home's electrical and fire-safety system, but it's one you want to be able to rely on when it matters.
Why I Use Aico Alarms
For this particular job, I installed Aico smoke alarms with sealed 10-year lithium battery backup.
The sealed battery means there's no ordinary replaceable backup battery for the homeowner to periodically change during the alarm's service life.
Choosing the correct alarm isn't simply a matter of picking up whichever model is available, though. The appropriate alarm type, positioning, interconnection and power arrangement depend on the property and the installation.
That's why I assess what's already installed before deciding what should replace it.
Check More Than Just the Test Button
I'd encourage homeowners to make smoke-alarm checks part of their normal household routine.
Test the alarms, check their age and look for the replacement information.
If you've recently moved house, it's particularly worthwhile. You may have no idea when the existing alarms were fitted or whether they're still within their recommended lifespan.
And if you're unsure what you're looking at, ask an electrician rather than simply assuming they're fine because the little light is flashing.
Smoke Alarm Replacement in Burnham-on-Sea and Somerset
At D Durnan Electrical Ltd, I carry out domestic electrical work throughout Burnhamon-Sea, Highbridge and surrounding Somerset areas, including smoke and heat alarm installation and replacement.
I'm NAPIT registered, and I can assess your existing alarms and advise whether they're suitable, correctly positioned and still within their intended service life.
If you've checked your smoke alarms and discovered they're older than you thought — or you simply don't know how old they are — get in touch for a free, no-obligation quotation.
