Checking your smoke detector is a simple gesture, but one that can save lives. To avoid accidents, we explain how to check that your smoke detector is working properly in your home.
Time to change the clocks? Time to check your smoke detector !
08 February 2022 2 min
Every smoke detector in your home should be checked each time you change the time on your clocks
As they are in use 24 hours a day, so it is very important that they remain functional at all times.
Here is how a proper checkup should be done:
• Press and hold the button on the face of the smoke detector for a few seconds. You should hear a long beep letting you know it is still functional.
• If the beep is intermittent, replace the battery immediately. This sound means the battery must be changed.
• Test the smoke detector by lighting a match or a candle directly underneath the smoke detector in order to confirm that it will ring the alarm in case of smoke.
• If it is directly linked to a central alarm system, make sure that the signal has properly been sent to the central.
• NEVER use rechargeable batteries.
It is important to know that since October 1st 2018, in compliance to Quebec’s updated electric code, it will be mandatory to install hard-wired fire detectors in each bedroom including rooms that could be used as bedrooms as well as installing one per common area. You also have to change it every 10 years.
Finally, you must know that smoke detectors are no longer battery-powered, but are now connected to an alarm system.
IMPORTANT: As well as smoke detectors, we also check carbon monoxide and gas detectors!
