We’ve been through it too. It always starts after you’ve just decided to hit the sack and call it a day. The chirping sound of your smoke alarm for no apparent reason, frightening you out of that deep sleep. The continuous beep keeps going on and on. There’s an easy solution on how to reset smoke alarm. Although it is a fact that smoke detectors do save lives, you would want to make sure that your smoke alarm is working correctly. Fortunately, smoke alarms are pretty vocal when they are malfunctioning. The good news is, No need to call for professional help, try out these tips that should do the trick.
What’s the First Move?
The first thing to do before we go on how to reset smoke alarms is to identify if you have a hardwired or standalone smoke detector. And you should also determine if the alarm is continuously beeping or setting off randomly.
What’s the Beeping Sound?
A beeping noise is usually a sure indication that your smoke detector batteries are dying or that your alarm system needs a good, old-fashioned reset.
How Often Should Smoke Alarms Batteries be Changed?
Old batteries are also the most common reasons why smoke alarms keep on beeping incessantly. Both hardwired and standalone systems require batteries, and as power decreases, your smoke alarms will beep so often as an indication to change them. Some places (like California) require battery-powered smoke detectors that can last up to 10 years. The batteries in these devices are inaccessibly sealed, and the beeping sound means it’s time for the whole smoke detector to be replaced.
Did the Circuit Breaker Trip?
If you installed a hardwired smoke alarm system, try flipping the switch on the circuit breaker to see if the beeping stops.
Outdoor Security Lights Raises Awareness
Here are some quick steps on how to reset smoke alarms for both hardwired and standalone smoke detectors.
Wired Smoke Alarms with Battery Backup
- Turn off the main switch in your home’s circuit breaker box to turn off all electrical current running to your smoke detector.
- Take the device off its mounting bracket and disengage the power cable connected to the smoke detector.
- Remove the batteries, press the “Test” button, and press it down for about 15 seconds. An alarm should sound brief, and then it should stop after.
- Place the battery back in the device, reconnect the power cable, and put the device back on its mounting bracket. Turn on your circuit breaker. The smoke detector will chirp once to indicate that power was restored.
Battery-Powered Smoke Detectors
- Take the batteries out of the smoke detector.
- Press the “Test” button for 15 seconds. An alarm should sound brief, and then it should stop after.
- Put the batteries back in the smoke detector device. It will chirp once to indicate the battery is ready.
Look for Dirt or Debris
If the quick steps on how to reset smoke alarms didn’t work, dust or dirt might be stuck between the wall and your detector hindering the sensors. Detach the device from the bracket, and remove any dirt or debris with the use of a crevice tool on your vacuum. Compressed air can also work well to clean the area.
Less Beeping and More False Alarms
If you have false alarms — beeping for a specific amount of time— at a particular hour, your smoke detector is most likely overexposed to some elements, like steam in your bathroom or smoke in your kitchen located near a heating vent. In these cases, it’s best to consider replacing your smoke detector. Find out more about Smoke Alarms.
Conclusion
Smoke alarms are important to guarantee that you and your family are notified in case of a fire. Because it’s an indispensable tool for protection, make sure that your home is equipped with a properly working one. If in case your smoke alarms begin to create sounds, this may be an indication that something is up with your device and may need new batteries. The device should clear errors after the batteries are changed; otherwise, the only way to stop the sound is to manually reset the smoke alarm. Also, check for some dirt or debris that may hinder the alarm sensors and cause continued beeping. Before calling for professional help, which may cost extra bucks, follow these quick and easy tips on how to reset smoke alarms. Who knows, these might do the trick.