Time to change smoke alarm batteries
APRIL 1 is “change smoke alarm batteries” day.
The Department of Fire and Emergency Services uses April Fools’ Day to remind all Australians to regularly change their smoke alarm batteries.
Smoke alarms powered by a 9V alkaline battery must be replaced annually using a high-quality, long-life battery.
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How to change your smoke alarm battery
Before changing a smoke alarm battery check with the manufacturer’s instructions.
While every alarm model is different, most battery-powered smoke alarms are secured to the ceiling using a bracket that releases the alarm when turned.
Using a ladder, remove the alarm from the bracket.
Come down the ladder and disconnect the old battery from inside the alarm and replace it with a new one.
Once the new battery is in place, climb back up the ladder and fix the alarm back in place. While there, press the test button on the alarm until a loud alert tone is heard, then release. This is to make sure the alarm is working.
Smoke alarms make a warning ‘beep’ or ‘chirp’ when there is a fault or when the battery is low.
If after changing the battery the smoke alarm continues to sound a warning ‘beep’ or ‘chirp’, the smoke alarm may be faulty and require replacement.
All smoke alarms have a red light that flashes momentarily every 40-60 seconds to visually indicate it is operating. This same red-light flashes continuously when the smoke alarm has been activated.
Different types of smoke alarms
Not all smoke alarms have a replaceable battery.
A smoke alarm powered by a 10-year non-removable lithium battery does not require a battery change each year. Any alarms with a non-replaceable battery should have a warning on them so always check the manufacturer’s instructions beforehand and do not try to remove these batteries.
Hard wired smoke alarms are powered by an external power source, mains power. These alarms have a battery for back up during a mains power outage but most models have a rechargeable battery that does not need replacing. Again, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions beforehand to see if the battery requires changing.
Regardless of the type, all smoke alarms require regular maintenance and a full replacement every 10 years.
For mains powered smoke alarms, a licensed electrical contractor is required to disconnect or install these alarms while all other smoke alarm maintenance can be done by an adult.
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What type of smoke alarm to install
Smoke alarms being installed or replaced must be photoelectric smoke alarms and comply with Australian Standard 3786:2014. Check for this marking on the smoke alarm prior to installation.
Research shows photoelectric smoke alarms – provided the alarms are properly installed and maintained and occupants hear them – consistently provides enough time for occupants to escape from smouldering and flaming fires.
The DFES also recommends that smoke alarms with the following features be purchased
- Hush (silence) function
- Test function
- Rechargeable back-up battery
Smoke alarm maintenance routine
The following routine can help maintain smoke alarms to ensure they are in top working order.
Only working smoke alarms save lives.
Test smoke alarms every month. Do this by holding down the test button until a loud alert tone sounds, then release. This ensures the battery and alarm sounder are operating.
Vacuum smoke alarms with a soft brush attachment to remove any built-up dust or cobwebs in the alarm vents and around the alarm. Do this every six months.
Use a surface insect spray around the smoke alarm to prevent insects from nesting inside it. Do not spray inside the alarm.
Also never paint or cover smoke alarms.
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Where should smoke alarms be installed?
Currently, smoke alarms should be installed in every bedroom, living area and hallway for optimum smoke detection. Particularly in childrens’ rooms or rooms where the occupants sleep with the door closed.
Research shows children are more likely to wake up to a smoke alarm in their bedroom and alarms cannot detect smoke through a closed door.
In multi-level homes, it is recommended additional smoke alarms be installed in hallways or staircases between each level.
Changes to legislation
From January 1, 2027, it will be required by law in Queensland that all existing private homes, townhouses and units have photoelectric interconnected smoke alarms.
According to the QFES, these must be either hardwired to mains power or a non-removable 10-year battery-powered type alarm.
The legislation also required smoke alarms must be installed in the following locations:
- on each storey
- in each bedroom
- in hallways that connect bedrooms and the rest of the dwelling
- if there is no hallway, between the bedroom and other parts of the storey; and
- if there are no bedrooms on a storey, at least one smoke alarm must be installed in the most likely path of travel to exit the dwelling
For more information on smoke alarms visit the QFES website or DFES website.
