HH Homeowner's Handbook
Home / Safety & Detectors / Test and replace smoke detectors
TASK NO. 081 Safety-Critical

Test and replace smoke detectors

Safety & Detectors
Trigger
Test monthly, replace every 10 years
Who does it
DIY
Est. time
10 min per unit
Est. cost
$15-30 per unit
Difficulty
●○○○○
Step by step

  1. Press the test button on each unit; all interconnected alarms should sound.

  2. Check the manufacture date sticker - replace the whole unit if 10+ years old.

  3. Vacuum dust from the vents to prevent false alarms/reduced sensitivity.

  4. Replace batteries (non-hardwired models) every 6-12 months.

  5. Keep at least one detector per level and inside/outside each sleeping area.

Video guide
How to Install a Hard Wired Smoke Detector - Family Handyman
Watch this guide
✓ Source checked against this task.
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