Change Your Smoke Detector Batteries When We Spring Forward
Daylight Saving Time begins this year on March 14, and it’s also a great time to change your smoke detector batteries. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends changing smoke detector batteries annually. Although they didn’t start the campaign to use Daylight Saving Time as a marker, they do recommend the practice.
The exception to this rule is for smoke detectors with non-replaceable batteries. These last for 10 years without a battery change. However, if this type of smoke detector signals a low battery, you must replace the entire unit, not just the battery.
In general, homes need working smoke detectors for added safety. In fact, the NFPA notes that the risk of death from fire significantly decreases when a smoke detector is present, and dead batteries cause around 25% of smoke alarm failures.
Protect Your Home and Family with a Smoke Detector
Not only do smoke detectors protect your family, but Florida Building Codes require them. All new construction must have the right amount of smoke detectors to pass inspection. However, for older homes, while required, it’s the honor system that homeowners follow the Florida Building Codes.
When you purchase a home, you want to ensure the home has the right amount of smoke detectors and that they work. At Kenco Home Inspections, we inspect the smoke detectors and include the findings in our inspection report. As the buyer, you have a right to request the homeowner replace expired or broken smoke detectors.
How to Change a Smoke Detector Battery
Most smoke detectors follow a similar method to change the batteries. As we said, 10-year smoke detectors do not follow this process. Check the user guide for the specific recommendations for your smoke detectors.
Step 1: Twist the smoke detector cover to loosen and remove it.
Step 2: Remove the old battery and properly dispose of it.
Step 3: Install the new battery.
Step 4: Press the test button to ensure the smoke detector works.
Benefits of Changing Smoke Detector Batteries Each Spring
Staying on top of maintenance tasks is important for homeowners. Give yourself peace of mind and keep you home in top shape.
Avoid the annoying chirping warning sound for low batteries, especially in the middle of the night.
Verify your smoke detectors are working to keep you safe.
Clean the smoke detector to remove dust and dirt buildup.
Keep your home inspection ready and follow Florida Building Codes
Know the expiration date so you can replace your smoke detectors when they expire at 10 years.
Kenco Home Inspections Serves Southeast Florida
At Kenco Home Inspections, we want to help homeowners understand how to keep your home inspection ready. One way to protect your home is by keeping smoke detectors working. When you tackle home maintenance issues annually, you won’t have the stress of making tons of repairs in the event you sell your home.
Kenco Home Inspections offers full home inspections to help you know the current condition of your home. We also offer inspections for buyers to make an informed purchasing decision. Contact us today to schedule a home inspection.