A hardwired smoke detector is one that is wired by an electrician and powered by electricity rather than simply by a battery. Most hardwired smoke detectors also have a backup battery in case there is a power failure so that it will still function in case of a fire. Many people aren’t aware of this.
But like battery-only operated smoke detectors, a hardwired brand can can chirp every 30 seconds or so and you might wonder why. What are the reasons a hardwired smoke detector beeps and what should you do?
A hardwired smoke detector usually beeps for the following 3 reasons:
- The backup battery needs to be replaced.
- There is dust inside the unit which is impairing its ability to function.
- The unit has reached the end of its lifespan and needs to be replaced.
Let’s take a closer look at these three reasons with some thoughts behind each.
Why your hardwired smoke detector is beeping
The backup battery needs to be replaced
The average hardwired smoke detector uses a 9 volt battery as a backup in case there is a power failure. Eventually the battery backup will drain to the point of being replaced even if you haven’t suffered any power failures.
The detector will begin to chirp when it recognizes that the battery needs replacement to alert the home owner.
While battery manufacturers suggest that a 9 volt battery can last up to 5 years with mild use, smoke detector manufacturers generally suggest replacing batteries every 6 months for safety reasons.
By replacing your backup battery regularly you ensure that the detector will function properly even during a power failure and aren’t relying on an old battery.
There is dust inside the unit which is impairing its ability to function
Dust and other particles can accumulate inside a smoke detector and interfere with its ability to function properly. In some cases, a smoke detector that is covered in dust may not be able to detect smoke at all. In other cases, the presence of dust may cause the smoke detector to give false alarms or to fail to sound when there is an actual fire.
To prevent dust from accumulating inside your smoke detector, it is important to clean it on a regular basis. You can do this by using a soft cloth or a small brush to gently remove any visible dust or debris from the outside of the detector. You can also use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment to carefully clean the inside of the detector. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning your specific smoke detector, as different models may have different requirements.
If your smoke detector is constantly giving false alarms or failing to detect smoke, it may be time to replace it. Dust and other debris can build up inside the detector over time and cause it to malfunction, so it is important to replace it if it is not working properly.
If you’ve had renovations done in your home that produced dust – wood flooring installed, drywall work, etc – check your detectors after the work is done.
The unit has reached the end of its lifespan and needs to be replaced
There are a few signs that may indicate that it is time to replace your hardwired smoke detector:
- The smoke detector is more than 10 years old: Most smoke detectors have a lifespan of about 10 years. If your smoke detector is older than this, it is likely time to replace it.
- The smoke detector is not functioning properly: If your smoke detector is not responding correctly to smoke, or if it is giving false alarms, it may need to be replaced.
- The smoke detector has physical damage: If your smoke detector has been damaged in any way, such as by water or impact, it may no longer be effective and should be replaced.
- The smoke detector is making strange noises: If your smoke detector is making strange noises, such as chirping or beeping, it may be a sign that it is malfunctioning and needs to be replaced. As mentioned above, this could also be a case of a dying battery.
If you are unsure whether your hardwired smoke detector needs to be replaced, it is a good idea to consult the manufacturer’s instructions or to speak with a professional.
Do hardwired smoke detectors require batteries to function?
Most hardwired smoke detectors have a backup battery in case of a power outage. The battery is typically used to keep the smoke alarm functioning when the power is off, so that it can still detect fires and alert people in the event of an emergency. The battery is typically a small, 9-volt battery that is installed inside the smoke alarm.
When the battery is dying or is taken out and not replaced, the detector will beep to alert the homeowner to change the battery for safety reasons.
In some cases, the battery may be a removable, replaceable battery, while in other cases it may be a sealed, non-replaceable battery. It is important to regularly test the battery in your hardwired smoke alarm to ensure that it is working properly and to replace it as needed.
While battery-operated models work simply on the battery, a hardwired smoke detector runs off electricity and uses the battery only when needed. In that regard, the battery is a required aspect of the hardwired models.
What’s better: A hardwired or battery-powered smoke detector?
It is generally recommended to use hardwired smoke detectors rather than battery-operated ones. Hardwired smoke detectors are connected to your home’s electrical system, so they will continue to work even if there is a power outage when they have a battery backup.
Since they are hardwired however, you might need an electrician to replace them when the time comes depending on where you live and the local laws regarding electrical work.
But if your home isn’t wired for them, are you going to pay an electrician to do the necessary wiring to install hardwired smoke detectors in the ceilings of your home? You might just stick with battery models in this case.
That being said, battery-operated smoke detectors can still be an effective option in certain situations. For example, if you are renting a home or apartment and are not allowed to make permanent changes to the electrical system, a battery-operated smoke detector may be your best option. They can also be a good choice for a vacation home or other property that you do not visit frequently.
Battery-operated units are easier to move if you would like to relocate them to another part of a room for whatever reason, too.
Ultimately, the most important thing is to make sure that you have smoke detectors in your home and that they are in good working order. Whether you choose hardwired or battery-operated detectors, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and maintenance to ensure that they are able to effectively protect you and your family from the dangers of fire.