How to maintain your smoke alarms

Smoke alarms are one of the best safety devices to help prevent disastrous outcomes due to fire. They really do save lives! But, it's important to note that they're not just a set and forget item. They're only as good as how they are maintained. To help ensure that you're safe in your home, here's our top tips to make sure your smoke alarm is properly maintained:

1) Test it!

This is a bit of a no brainer, but a well maintained smoke alarm is one that's tested regularly. You'll need to get up on a ladder, or use a broom, to push the test button and insure that it's sounding. If your smoke alarm is connected to the mains power, make sure you turn the lighting circuit off first (if you don’t you’re not testing the battery). Your light circuit should be labelled in your switchboard. The alarm should sound indicating the unit is functioning properly. You can also buy a can of smoke from your local hardware store if you prefer. If the unit fails to respond, change the battery immediately and test again. If still no response, call a qualified electrician to arrange a replacement.

2) Give it a clean

Whilst your testing your alarm, ensure that it's clean so no muck can interfere with the sounding of the alarm.

3) Replace the battery

Batteries aren't designed to last forever, so make sure that you replace them every year. We change our smoke alarm every time daylight savings rolls around. It's a great reminder that when you're changing your clocks, to change your smoke alarm batteries as well!

4) Replace old smoke alarms

Smoke alarms do have an expiry date! If you can't remember the last time your smoke alarm unit was replaced, then it's probably time to call a licensed electrician to do so!