Smoke Detectors

[WillH]

Not specifically in motorhomes though, domestic fitting, they are identical anyway. 8 years ago I changed all the smoke detectors in the house for new, eight in all. I test them regularly and change the batteries as required, not as directed. Last night one of the detectors failed, gave a dying squeal and that was it. Today I have replaced it and actually read the instructions.

It is recommended to renew them every five years, guidance on the web says eight to ten years. What do others do?

 

[M-J]

We use fire angel 10 year life sealed battery units in a large rental property portfolio. They have a recommended change date stamped on them. (Don’t buy stock that is too old)

Rarely any problems but backed by a good warranty if needed. Simple email of problem and photos of unit and they send a replacement.

 

[andy63]

I hard wired my detectors , but they still have a 9v battery as back up in case of mains failure..
They emit a cherping sound when the batteries need changing.. i rely on the grand kids to tell me when that happens ..
I thought most smoke detectors would give some sort of warning when the batteries need changing , but if tested regularly you will know ..
Andy.

 

[Richard n Ann]

Ours gets tested every time I get the bacon on

 

[WillH]

I test ours regularly but this one failed, started squealing at a low volume. Changed battery and just the same. I've renewed it and will probably change all the others, they do have a finite life. Many thanks for all the comments

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[andy63]

they do have a finite life

Co alarms definately do have a finite life due to the nature of the detacting mechanism.. the test button on these only checks battery function...
Smoke detectors eit her ionisation or optical are a different matter.. they can and do last for years..
My parents have one in their house i put in in the 1970's ..still going strong..
The ones i have in the house are again still functioning and i put them in in the early 90's..
Im reading that most bodies seem to suggest replacement at around 10 to 20 years.. it seems to vary...along with rather poor reasoning for doing so other than they are old....
Andy..

 

[DDJC]

CO and smoke replace battery when it chirps. Replace units every five years. Only got one family