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July 29, 2021 0 Comments

How To Test A Smoke Detector

When you know how to test a smoke detector, you keep your home or business safe.

The most important piece of equipment in your home that helps save lives in the event of a fire is a smoke detector. It’s an early alert system. A smoke detector is an active device, constantly energized, sensing the air quality. These devices can, and do occasionally fail. Periodically testing the detectors is fairly easy and inexpensive.

I test and inspect mine twice per year when the clocks get moved forward in the spring and when they get moved back in the fall. If you want to use July 4th and New Years, or two birthdays, that’s fine. As long as the two dates are about 6 months apart, you’re good. I have a quick test and a more extensive test.

How To Test A Smoke Detector In The Spring

In the spring, I perform an extensive test. It consists of the following steps:
  • Replace the battery in each detector. Batteries can fail prematurely so fresh batteries are important. Some new extinguishers come with a 10-year battery. I personally wouldn’t trust them for 10 years. Change them at 5-year intervals.
  • Push the test button for several seconds. If it doesn’t set off the ear-piercing alarm, put the old battery back in and retest. If it still doesn’t sound or if the sound is weak, replace the detector. If it works with the old battery , try another new fresh battery again.
  • Next, I use canned smoke to spray into the smoke detector. A short burst will do. The smoke can be purchased at a hardware store or online. The button on the detector you push only tests the alarm, not the functionality of the detector sensors. If it sounds, you’re done. If it doesn’t, replace the detector.

In The Fall, I Use The Quick Test:

Push the button on the detector for several seconds. If the alarm sounds and is loud, you’re done. If it’s weak or no alarm at all, replace the battery. Test again. If it still fails to sound, replace the detector.

When To Replace A Smoke Detector

Beyond knowing how to test a smoke detector, it’s important to know how often to replace them.

I recommend replacing the smoke detectors every 10 years. Eventually the detector will fail. This proactive approach ensures the best hope of a properly working smoke detector at all times.
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