6 Reasons Your Smoke Detector Is Going Off

As annoying as it is to have your smoke detector go off, it’s important not to ignore it. Those alarms are intrusive and loud for a reason, they’re trying to get your attention!

Sometimes it could be a false alarm, but it’s always better to play it safe and make sure, even when you don’t see smoke.

Have You Changed The Battery?

One of the most common reasons smoke detectors in homes go off for “no reason” is because their batteries haven’t been changed regularly. Smoke in the air decreases the electrical current and the electrical current also decreases when batteries are losing power.

If the battery in your smoke detector is dying, the electrical current flowing through the detector’s sensor will drop as well. That can lead to a false alarm.

Change the batteries in your smoke detectors every six months to keep them working properly.

Are You Taking A Shower?

Another common cause of a false alarm is steam from a shower or bath. If your smoke detector is located too close to the bathroom it can set off the alarm.

If you can’t move the detector away from the bathroom, make sure you always run the exhaust fan while you’re showering to avoid setting it off.

Are You Cooking?

The same way a smoke detector can overreact if it’s too close to the bathroom holds true with kitchens as well. If your smoke detector is within 10 feet of an appliance like your toaster oven, stove, or oven when you use the broiler, it can go off.

You do want to make sure you have a smoke detector near your kitchen, as it is one of the most common places for a fire to happen in your home. Just try to place it at least 10 feet away from your appliances that generate a lot of heat or use an open flame, such as a gas range.

Have Insects Invaded?

There are tiny chambers in your smoke detector that allows smoke to enter. That’s what causes the sensors to register a threat and the alarm to go off. Those same tiny entrances can allow small insects like fruit flies, small spiders, or gnats to get stuck in the smoke detector.

Open up your smoke detector to make sure there aren’t any small bugs trapped inside wreaking havoc with the sensors.

Is It Clean?

A buildup of dust can cause the same problem as small insects inside your smoke detector. Clean it with the brush attachment of your vacuum cleaner once a year (at least) to make sure the sensors stay clean and continue to work properly.

Time For A Replacement?

Smoke detectors, like all electronic devices, don’t last forever. If they are more than 10 years old, it’s definitely time for an upgrade. 

If you aren’t sure which smoke detectors could be the best fit for your home, check with the National Fire Protection Association and follow their recommendations. You can also contact your local fire department for their advice on the best options to keep your home safe.

Make Sure Its A False Alarm

Smoke detectors are a vital way to keep your home safe. Your first step when they are going off is to make absolutely sure there isn’t an actual fire. 

If your smoke detector is also a carbon monoxide detector, don’t risk assuming it is a false alarm. Evacuate your home and call emergency services to make sure your home is safe and free of dangerous carbon monoxide.

Call Lake City Restoration For Help

We have the expertise and advanced equipment to restore your home safely when it has been damaged by fire or smoke. In the event of a fire or other emergency, 911 should be your first call, then call in our restoration experts to help!

Our services include water damage cleanup, fire damage restoration, storm damage repair, and other necessary restoration services. 

If you have questions about how the restoration process works or what might work best for your home, give us a call today. Our restoration specialists are available 24/7!