Replace smoke detector units
Short answer
Check the manufacture date on the back of each smoke detector; replace any unit that is 10 or more years old.
Why It Matters
Smoke sensors lose sensitivity after ~10 years and may not detect fires reliably.
Tools
- Step ladder
Materials
- Replacement smoke detectors
How to Do It
- Set up a step ladder beneath each smoke detector to reach it safely.
- Twist or unclip the detector from its mounting bracket and flip it over to find the manufacture date printed on the back.
- If the manufacture date is 10 or more years ago, the unit needs replacement.
- Remove the old unit from its mounting bracket and disconnect the battery or wiring harness.
- Mount the new detector on the existing bracket, connect the battery or wiring harness, and lock it in place.
- Press the test button on each new unit to confirm it sounds an alarm before moving on.
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