5 Signs It’s Time to Swap Out Your Smoke Alarms

types_of_smoke_alarms

5 Signs It’s Time to Swap Out Your Smoke Alarms

Smoke alarms are lifesavers—literally—but they don’t last forever. Just like any gadget, they need to be replaced to keep working properly. If you’re not sure whether your alarms are still doing their job, here are five signs it’s time to make the switch.

1. Your Smoke Alarm is Over 10 Years Old

Smoke alarms have a 10-year lifespan, then their sensors lose sensitivity meaning a fire might go undetected.  In Queensland, it’s also the law to replace them once they hit that 10-year mark. Check the manufacturing date on the back of your alarm (near the battery compartment). If it’s over a decade old, don’t wait—replace it ASAP.

2. It’s Going Off for No Reason

We’ve all been there—a smoke alarm starts sounding because you burnt the toast. But if false alarms are happening all the time, it could mean the sensors are wearing out or there’s dust or contamination buildup inside. Try giving it a good vacuum all around the mesh, but if that doesn’t fix it, it’s likely that it is faulty and needs replacing.

3. It Won’t Stop Chirping

That annoying chirping noise usually means the battery is low, but if you’ve replaced the battery and the chirping continues, the alarm itself is likely faulty. Keep in mind that models with 10-year lithium batteries have non-removable batteries.

4. It Fails When Tested

We recommend testing your smoke alarms every month to ensure its still doing its job and protecting you and your family. Press the test button—if it doesn’t beep or sounds weakly it is possible faulty. For interconnected alarms, pressing the test button on one unit should trigger all of the alarms. If a unit does not sound it might need re-interconnecting or be faulty.

5. You Have Ionisation Smoke Alarms

Photoelectric smoke alarms are now the gold standard. They’re much better at detecting smouldering fires, which are the most common in homes. If you’re still using older ionisation alarms, it’s time to upgrade. In fact, ionisation alarms can no longer be installed, so switching to photoelectric ones isn’t just smart—it’s essential.

Stay Ahead of Fire Safety

Smoke alarms save lives, but only if they’re working properly. Regular testing and replacing old or faulty alarms is the best way to keep your home safe. If your alarms show any of these signs, don’t wait—upgrade them today and ensure you and your family are protected from fire.

Scroll to Top