Press test button on smoke detectors

Short answer

Press and hold the test button on each smoke detector until the alarm sounds; do this monthly.

Priority: High
Difficulty: DIY
Time: 5 min
How often: Monthly

Why It Matters

Replacing the battery doesn't verify the sensor and horn still work. The test button is the only way to confirm a real alarm event.

Tools

Step ladder

How to Do It

Locate every smoke detector in your home, including ones in bedrooms, hallways, and common areas.
Press and hold the test button on the first detector until the alarm sounds.
Release the button once the alarm sounds, confirming the sensor and horn are working.
Repeat for each remaining detector, one at a time.
Replace any detector immediately if it does not sound when the button is held.

Replace smoke detector batteries Once a year
Replace smoke detector units Every 10 years
Radon test Every 2 years

Part Of

Safety Smoke Detector

Last updated 23 September 2026

Put this on your schedule

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