If you have a battery-operated smoke detector, your local fire department can change the batteries or help you replace the detector—just make sure you call the non-emergency number. In any case, do not let this project go unresolved, as it could turn into a huge safety issue.
Just give the fire department a call on their non-emergency line or call the fire prevention department.
Some fire departments offer reduced-price, or even free, smoke alarms. Contact your local fire department's nonemergency phone number for more information. Your city, county or state may require a specific type of alarm.
If you find it's about time to replace your smoke alarm, you are probably asking yourself “Do I need an electrician to replace hardwired smoke detectors?” The answer is yes, as handling electrical circuits can be risky without proper knowledge.
If you are not comfortable replacing your smoke or heat alarms, or if your alarm's mounting plate needs removing or rewiring, you will need to use an Aico Expert Installer or your local electrician to ensure the process is completed safely with the correct electrical work.
Our firefighters will replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide alarms for those unable to safely access their units.
Handyman are trained in smoke detector installation and repair and know local fire and building codes to ensure the job is done correctly. Don't risk your safety with DIY smoke detector services.
Smoke detector installation costs $70 to $150 for most homeowners, and the average cost is $115. A pro can give you more specifics based on the number of smoke detectors you need, their quality, and where they're at in your home.
According to many local building codes, smoke detectors in new homes must be hardwired into the electrical system, which requires a qualified electrician.
You can install a hardwired smoke detector yourself, but only if you have a good familiarity with home electrical work and an understanding of electrical circuits before attempting this project.
What Does a Beeping Fire Alarm Mean? Unless there is some kind of smoke or fire emergency, a smoke alarm beeping every 30 seconds signifies that it is low battery. Sometimes though, other environmental factors can cause the alarm to beep more than normal.
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. Dust and cobwebs make it harder for alarms to detect smoke.
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If your smoke detectors are yellowing, chirping non-stop, or going off unexpectedly, it's time to call in our electrical pros from Integrity Home Solutions. We can inspect and replace hardwired smoke detectors or install them if you don't have them in place already. Don't take a chance on your family's safety.
Clear Residual Charge to Stop the Chirp
Remove the alarm from your ceiling or wall. Open the cover and take out the battery. Press and hold the test button for 15-30 seconds. This will fully reset the smoke alarm and drain any charge left inside.
However, if you aren't confident working with electrical, you can call an alarm company near you or a local electrician to assist. You may also need professional help if you're replacing an older smoke alarm system with an updated one that doesn't match your connectors.
Whether you choose to go with a hard-wired system or an interconnected system, your smoke detector installation should be completed by a qualified electrician. A professional will ensure that the job is done right the first time in accordance with state and local regulations and standards.
If you choose to have a mains-powered alarm, make sure it's installed by a qualified electrician. It's also possible to fit extra automatic 'fire suppression' systems at home – that's things like sprinklers.
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.
Usually, someone in the fire prevention division be happy to help you out, though occasionally the duty crew in your area might be tasked with the assignment. In the meantime, you can help yourself a bit by noting the brand and model of detector you have and the number and frequency of the beeps.
If your smoke alarm is chirping or beeping regularly and you have verified that the battery is good, the fire alarm may be faulty, or it may be time to replace it. Many smoke alarms have a set life span of seven to 10 years due to the type of material used for the ionization process.