Fire Alarm
#1
Fire Alarm
Our wired-in fire alarm went off a couple of times last night--just a couple of short bursts. We couldn't find anything that might have set it off. Any ideas why this happens? I did pull the cover off this morning and noticed that it was very dusty. Would that have set it off?
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#2
Hi:Slater
Dust can set off a smoke detector. The sensor activates upon an particles that cross by and dust is no exception on many of them.
It may also have sensed any particles of smoke from an oven, toaster, fireplace, etc. if any of these itmes where used or not cleaned well.
At least one good came of it...you know it's working regardless of the blinking light. A comforting thought if it's working correctly.
If you get too many false alarms, it may be defective or need replacement. Check your owners manual.
Dust can set off a smoke detector. The sensor activates upon an particles that cross by and dust is no exception on many of them.
It may also have sensed any particles of smoke from an oven, toaster, fireplace, etc. if any of these itmes where used or not cleaned well.
At least one good came of it...you know it's working regardless of the blinking light. A comforting thought if it's working correctly.
If you get too many false alarms, it may be defective or need replacement. Check your owners manual.
Last edited by Sharp Advice; 07-15-05 at 06:24 AM.
#3
clean it regularly
Hard wired smoke alarms and all smoke alarms for that matter require maitenance - they should be tested once a week (use the test button or canister smoke) - The battery if not rechargeable should be replaced each 12 months and the alarm itself should be vacuumed at least once a month - I'd say that was your problem - have a nice day
#4
Forum Topic Moderator
Condensation can also cause false alarms, especially late night ones. The temperature and humidity hit the right point for moisture to condense inside the sensing chamber. Give it a blowing out with some canned air, and make sure it has a backup battery.
These hardwired smokes do have a finite lifespan. Anything beyond 5 years is borrowed time (the sensing element gradually degrades).
These hardwired smokes do have a finite lifespan. Anything beyond 5 years is borrowed time (the sensing element gradually degrades).