Spring Forward | Check Smoke Detectors
Smoke Detector Batteries
So today we turned our clocks forward an hour to start daylight savings time. The beginning and end of daylight savings time is the perfect time to check your smoke and carbon monoxide detector batteries. In fact, I recommend you just install new batteries twice a year to be sure they are always working properly.
Even if your house has hard-wired smoke detectors you still need to replace the back-up batteries. The photo shows the hard-wired smoke detector in our laundry room. Once you replace the battery be sure to test the smoke detector to be sure you’ve installed the battery properly.
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Here is a little tip – put a peice of masking tape on each battery and write the installation date on them with a sharpie.
There have been times that we’ve changed the clocks and I “intended” to check the smoke detectors, but I don’t get to it right away. It’s not long before you start thinking – “did I change them? Yeah, I must have when we changed the clocks”. It only takes a moment to pop off the battery cover and look at the little date label to see if you are overdue. If you are – change the batteries right away. Otherwise you might easily forget again until the next time change.
While your at it, write the year the detector was installed somewhere inside (if you know it). The working lifespan of detectors in not accurately known, but experts recommend replacing them after 10 years to be safe.
Is it possible to hang or attach a smoke detector to a bedroom door?
I had one on ceiling and being short it was impossible to remove battery. Even a 6’2 man had difficulty with positioning.
I don’t want to drill a hole in my wall, however. Any suggestions on a convenient way to have one that is easily installed, no screws?
HELP!!!!!!!!!!!!
@ Pam – Not sure installing a smoke detector on the door is such a good idea. However, many firemen actually recommend installing them on the wall, about 12 inches down from the ceiling.