Did You Know That Your Smoke Alarm Has An Expiration Date?
It does!
Every smoke alarm has a manufacturer’s date. According to the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code (NFPA 72), it’s required that all smoke alarms be replaced within 10 years of that date. Actually, the manufacture’s instructions for most smoke alarms state that they are to be replaced when they fail to respond. This could be BEFORE their expiration date of 10 years.
What does that mean for you?
It’s Time To Check Your Smoke Alarms!
Be sure to walk around your home and check all smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms for their manufacture’s date. This can be found either on the side of the alarm or the back cover. In order to check, you’ll need to remove the alarm from it’s base on the ceiling. To do this, twist the alarm counter-clockwise.
It’s best to replace the alarm with the same manufactured alarm so that no other assembly is required. The new alarm from the same manufacturer can be placed on the ceiling or wall plate with no problems. However, if you’re replacing the old alarm with a different manufacturer, you will need to remove the old ceiling plate and install the new one included with your new alarm. Once you’ve replaced your new alarm, be sure to test out the unit by pushing the center button to make sure it’s working correctly.
If your alarm is hard-wired into the ceiling, but sure to take extreme caution to keep everyone safe. If you know how to work with electrical wiring, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Otherwise, contact a qualified electrician.
Next Gen offers FREE consultations for any electrical service and we are happy to replace your old smoke alarms including testing them. Give us a call today to schedule your appointment.
For a more detailed and step by step demonstration of these steps, watch our how-to video “Don’t Wait, Check The Date”.
