HOME TIP: Follow manufacturer’s
instructions for testing CO and smoke
detectors.
Keeping detectors functioning
properly
Properly functioning detectors are vital to your
safety. Clean them of dust, which reduces their
sensitivity to heat and smoke and may cause
false alarms. To get rid of dust, remove the top
of the detector and vacuum the inside. A can of
compressed air also works for dust removal.
Backup battery
CO and smoke detectors contain 9-volt
batteries that serve as backup should power to
the home be cut. The detector will produce an
unmistakable chirp when the battery is running
low and it’s time to replace it. To ensure there’s
no lapse in safety, keep extra 9-volt batteries
on hand.
Change the battery by following these steps:
1. Disconnect the hardwire harness.
2. Take out used battery.
3. Discharge latent energy from the detector
by pressing the TEST button.
4. Install fresh battery.
5. Reconnect hardwire harness.
HOME TIP: Change all CO and smoke
detector batteries at the same time
every year. Many people change them at
Daylight Savings Time.
HOME TIP: Even if just one detector isn’t
functioning properly, all will chirp. Find the
malfunctioning detector by locating the
one that has a red indicator light flashing.
HOME TIP: If your home includes a fire
sprinkler system, read the manufacturer’s
instructions.
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