Smoke Detector Tester Basics

Here are some smoke detector tester basics that will help your family be safe in a fire or gas-related emergency.

Smoke detector testers are commercially-available products you can use to check the proper operation of your fire alarm system. All smoke detectors, whether single battery-powered units or hard-wired wireless systems with multiple devices linked through an integrated communication system, have built-in battery checkers and testers, but they cannot check operating integrity. To actually determine if your device can detect smoke, you need to create a real enough scenario to verify the efficacy of its operation.

Alternative Smoke

A smoke detector tester is basically an aerosol can of compressed gas the propels a liquid substance that, when emitted from the can, mimics the properties of smoke that would emanate from a home fire. This method of testing is safer than actually lighting matches or candles because lighted items could present a hazard if not held properly or could cause property damage or harm. Also, you may feel uncomfortable using “live” smoke or flame to test your smoke detector. Use of a smoke detector tester allows you to simulate smoke in the room, making the testing activity safe for anyone to conduct.

Ease of Operation

Because the simulated smoke comes in an aerosol can, testing the efficiency of your fire alarm system becomes almost as easy as checking the device's battery power. By simply depressing the can nozzle, the simulated smoke emits into the air where it will envelope the smoke detector tester. If operating properly, the detector will sound. Make sure before testing your fire alarm system to alert any independent monitoring agency, if necessary. Clean up from testing is relatively easy as well by simply using a can of compressed air to clear the devices from any particle residue left from the simulated smoke. Many smoke detector testers are packaged with compressed air to make a complete kit.

Cost Effectiveness

One of the great aspects about using a smoke detector tester is the cost effectiveness. When properly operated, each can of smoke detector tester should dispense up to 200 sprays. Most cans are priced from $12 to $15, making weekly testing quite economical. This amounts to approximately 7.5 cents per spray--an extremely cost effective measure to providing peace of mind and security for you and your family.

Safe Operation

All aerosol smoke detector tester cans are not only a safer method to check your fire alarm system but are also environmentally safe as well. When properly stored in a cool dry location, aerosol cans of smoke detector testers can remain safe until needed. Smoke detector testers have various accessories available. Extension tubes for more pinpoint spray delivery and extension poles that allow testing of devices on high ceilings are two examples. The high ceiling testers are used by placing the can on the top of a pole that has a trigger release control at the bottom. This method allows for safer testing by eliminating the need to use a ladder to reach units installed on high ceilings.