You\u2019re sound asleep at 3 a.m., and then you hear it: the chirping smoke alarm. The incessant beeping every 30 seconds reminding you to check the battery is enough to drive the average person to a frantic state. That\u2019s why it is important to know how to stop a smoke alarm from chirping.<\/p>\n
Knowing what to do when your smoke alarm starts beeping is important. You want it working properly right away so that you, your family, and your home can stay safe.<\/p>\n
Smoke alarms save lives. Here are some tips on how to stop a smoke alarm from chirping while ensuring it\u2019s functioning as it should.<\/p>\n
First, remove the battery cover on the alarm\u2019s battery compartment. Take the old battery out and install a new one. (If you\u2019re like many people, you have a special battery drawer. It\u2019s a good idea to always have battery backups!)<\/p>\n
This is the first thing you should do when it comes to stopping the chirping. Then use the TEST button to ensure the detector is up and running properly.<\/p>\n
Sometimes dust can cause the sensor to malfunction, and the alarm will start chirping. Vacuum (or use a compressed air container) around the alarm to remove dust and dirt, or gently wipe away any accumulated dust from the area.<\/p>\n
This should be done every few months.<\/p>\n
And this goes for smoke alarms, fire alarms, and carbon monoxide alarms, by the way.<\/p>\n
So you put in a new battery. Is the alarm beeping or chirping still? If you put a new battery in and still find the smoke detector beeping, remove the unit from the ceiling and take the battery out.<\/p>\n
Then hold down the test button for at least 15 seconds before putting a new battery in. This could help reset the alarm.<\/p>\n
If you have tried these things and the alarm still doesn\u2019t work, you may need to throw it out and completely replace it.<\/p>\n
Smoke alarms generally last about 10 years. If the units in your home are older than that, it\u2019s probably a good idea to replace each one. Doing this ensures that it will be functioning properly in the case of an emergency.<\/p>\n
Perhaps you have a hardwired smoke alarm that is connected to your electrical breaker. If this is the case, you\u2019ll need to make your way to the electrical panel and look for a breaker labeled \u201cSmoke Alarms\u201d or \u201cCentral Smoke Alarm.\u201d<\/p>\n
Turn the breaker to the off position and wait a few minutes before turning it back on. If the alarm seems to be working normally after that, then a reset was the answer. If not, you may need to replace the smoke alarm and call an electrician to help get it wired properly.<\/p>\n