What is the lifespan of a Kidde smoke detector?

Author: Prof. Nick Walter DVM  |  Last update: Saturday, March 15, 2025

Kidde recommends replacing your smoke alarms every5/ 10 years, and carbon monoxide alarms every 7/10 years. If you don't know how old your alarm is, look for the manufacturing date code on the back of the alarm(s) or simply replace them to avoid any danger​.

How do I know if my Kidde smoke detector is bad?

If a problem is detected the alarm will enter a fault mode. If this occurs the alarm will produce a single “chirp” approximately every 30 seconds and blink the Red LED 2-12 times. If this should occur call Kidde Customer service at 1-800-880-6788.

How often should I replace my Kidde smoke detector?

In accordance with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Kidde recommends replacing smoke and heat alarms every ten years, and replacing carbon monoxide and combination alarms every seven to ten years (depending on your model) to benefit from the latest technology upgrades.

How long should a smoke detector last?

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, most alarms have a life span of 8-10 years. After this time, the entire unit should be replaced. Most alarms have the date of manufacture inside the unit. If you cannot find the date, replace it.

Why won't my Kidde smoke detector stop alarming?

Normally that indicates a sensor issue, something is interfering with one or more. Although in your case it will take some time, go to each alarm and remove the battery and use compressed air and blow it through all the gaps on the sides. Clean them all thoroughly and that will usually stop the false alarms.

Kidde smoke alarms recalled by CPSC

Why is my Kidde smoke detector going off for no reason?

Humidity, dust particles or small insects in the smoke chamber can cause false alarms; this can be solved by vacuuming the mesh and drying the smoke alarm.

Where is the reset button on my Kidde smoke detector?

This is usually located on the front or side of the unit. Press and hold the reset button for at least 5-10 seconds. You may need to use a small tool, such as a paperclip or a pen, to press the button. You should hear a beep or see the lights on the alarm flash to indicate that the unit has been reset.

How do I know if my Kidde smoke detector is expired?

Kidde recommends replacing your smoke alarms every5/ 10 years, and carbon monoxide alarms every 7/10 years. If you don't know how old your alarm is, look for the manufacturing date code on the back of the alarm(s) or simply replace them to avoid any danger​.

How do I know if my smoke detector needs replacing?

A “chirping” sound means that it's time to change batteries. Because alarm sensors wear out, replace each alarm at least every 10 years. Also, alarms have labels showing when they were made. If you don't see a label, the alarm is old and must be replaced.

Do hardwired smoke detectors go bad?

Smoke detectors last up to 10 years, at which point it's best to replace them for your safety.

Do I need an electrician to replace hardwired smoke detectors?

Can I install a hardwired smoke detector myself? While it is technically possible, it is not recommended. Working with your home's electrical system can be dangerous and complex, best left to a qualified electrician.

Why does my Kidde smoke detector keep beeping even after I change the battery?

Some smoke alarms have a processor that retains certain error conditions, such as a weak battery. The error condition should reset when the battery is replaced, but sometimes it doesn't and must be manually reset to clear the error.

Why did my fire alarm randomly go off in the middle of the night?

Why did my fire alarm randomly go off in the middle of the night? This is likely due to one of the common causes like low battery, dirt buildup, humidity, or insects interfering with the sensor. Test the alarm and clean it thoroughly to try and resolve the issue. Make sure batteries are fresh and secure.

What does a blinking green light mean on a Kidde smoke detector?

Green Light: The green LED will be lit continuously or flash every 30 seconds to indicate the unit is operating properly. In Hush® mode the LED blinks every 2 seconds and once per second if it is the initiating alarm.

Is there a recall on Kidde smoke detectors?

This involves seven models with a TRUSENSE logo and/or "Amber = Fault" text - see images for reference. On May 6, 2021 and in conjunction with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Kidde voluntarily announced a recall to replace Kidde TruSense Smoke and Combination Smoke/Carbon Monoxide Alarms.

How to know when a smoke detector is dying?

Signs It's Time for a Replacement:
  1. #1. Your Smoke Detector is Turning Yellow.
  2. #2. It Chirps Often.
  3. #3. It Doesn't Respond When You Test It.
  4. #4. It Goes Off Unexpectedly.
  5. #5. It Has Been Recalled.

What is the average lifespan of a smoke detector?

Most smoke alarms have a lifespan of eight to 10 years, and again, replace the batteries every year. A smoke detector with a lithium battery or a hard-wired smoke detector can last 10 years, at which time you would just replace the whole unit.

What does red and green light on a smoke detector mean?

You will notice two different lights on your smoke alarm: A steady green light shows the alarm is being powered. A red light that flashes once a minute shows the alarm is working.

How do I test my Kidde smoke detector?

After installation, you can test your smoke alarm by pressing on the test button for at least 10sec. This will trigger the alarm. To maintain your smoke alarm, vacuum around the smoke chamber regularly. Dust may accumulate inside the mesh even if it looks clean outside.

How long does Kidde last?

Kidde CO alarms have a proven life of seven to ten years, depending on the model type. Important Note! CO alarms do not detect the presence of CO when in end-of-life mode. Replace your CO alarms before the end-of-life warning.

What does it mean when a Kidde smoke detector blinks red?

If the unit malfunctions, the red LED light will flash and the unit will chirp every 30 seconds indicating a system problem. If the red LED flashes every 60 seconds WITHOUT an audible chirp, this is the pre-warning that the battery will soon need replacing. The alarm is battery-operated with a 9V battery.

What does 3 beeps mean on a Kidde smoke detector?

Three long beeps repeating every 1.5 seconds indicates a fire hazard. Four quick beeps repeating every 5 seconds indicates the presence of carbon monoxide.

How do I stop my Kidde smoke alarm from chirping?

The battery may need to be replaced. An alarm will chirp every 30 to 60 seconds for a minimum of seven days. With a "low battery" announcement, disconnect the unit and replace the batteries. You can also put a unit into low battery hush for up to 12 hours on newer units by pressing the test/hush button.

Why is the red light flashing on my hard wired smoke detector?

Your alarm manufacturer may have included a blinking red light to let you know it's time to test the alarm again. The Batteries are Low: Usually accompanied by a loud beep, a blinking red light could mean the batteries in the unit are low. Consider adding fresh batteries and running a test to make sure it's working.

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