Can you replace hardwired smoke detector with battery

Do you have to replace a hard-Wired smoke detector? It is a common question among most smoke detector users. The answer is yes and this has to be done after every 10 years unless recommended otherwise by the manufacturer. The replacement process is as simple as removing the old smoke detector and replacing it with a new one. Following the manufacturer's guide procedure and considering all the precautions is important. You can seek confirmation from the manufacture if you have some doubts.

Q: In my home, I have many FireX smoke detector alarms which are more than a decade old. I would really like to replace them but am facing one serious challenge. The model had been discontinued and their adapter plug does not match the new models specifically at the wiring harness end. Whilst that the case am I supposed to hire a skilled electrician for the replacement purpose?

A: Although our user guide requires users to hire skilled electricians (their service cost is $250) for the replacement of hard wired detectors it may not be necessary for this case. There are different affordable adapters available from other manufacturers that can be used. Kiddle acquired FireX 3 years ago and presently has availed low-cost adapters whose wire harness can be connected with Kiddle, BRK and first alert detectors. They are available online and at different home centers.

Replace detector alarms every decade is the right approach. It is recommended to change CO detectors after 5 years and use interconnected smoke alarms with the dual-type sensors. They may be expensive but are more efficient than the stand-alone type.

Considerations When Replacing Hard-Wired Detectors

The first consideration is to be certain of the type of hard-Wired detector you intend to replace. Is it just a hard-Wired smoke alarm or it is hard-Wired combined with a rechargeable battery? Being sure about the same will help in averting confusion that may arise during the replacement process.

Secondly, you have to be well acquainted with the type of connector associated with the detector you intend to replace. Ensure when you buy a detector for replacement the connector has to be similar to the one that is being replaced. Some manufactures will give an adapter for easy connection between two different types.  However, you can search online to find detectors with compatible connectors and make your order for the same.

Thirdly, you can check if the smoke alarm is tied to the alarm system of your home. This will enable you to determine if the company can send one of their personnel to check the cause of failure. If the detector is within the warranty period the manufacture could send you a new one for replacement.

Replacing a Hard-Wired Detector

Step 1. Disconnect the old hard-Wired smoke alarm

Turn off the power, remove the old alarm, using a non-contact detector check to be certain the power is off, disconnect all the wires and remove the mounting plate attached to the junction box.

Step 2. Connect the new wired smoke alarm

Fix the mounting plate to the junction box firmly with screws. Connect the harness to the new smoke alarm. Connect the wires to the box and finally mount it to the plate.

Hard-Wired or 10-Year Battery-Powered Smoke Alarms

Hard-Wired alarm installation

Because they are connected to your home power supply switching of power is necessary before any maintenance activity. They can be interconnected with other hard-Wired detectors and therefore will require a skilled electrician for installation.

Battery-powered alarm installation

They can be purchased at all big box stores and are easy to install, they have batteries as their only power source and the batteries should often be replaced.

Replacing of hard wired smoke detectors has to be done in accordance to the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure your home is safe from fires. Inefficient Smoke Detectors Put Your Home a huge risk.

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• What Causes Smoke Alarms Intermittent and Consistent Chirping
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1

Remove Cover

Most smoke detectors twist open, but some models have a plastic lock you open with a screwdriver, while others need to be popped open using your fingers. See your user’s manual for specific instructions on how your model works.  

Tip: Before working on a hard-wired smoke detector, turn off the main power at your circuit breaker to avoid electrical shock.

2

Replace Battery

Once you remove the cover of the detector, it's easy to see how to change a smoke alarm battery. Simply remove the old battery and install the new one. Make sure the negative and positive connections match the labels in the smoke detector.

Tip: Many smoke and carbon monoxide detectors use a 9v battery but some use lithium batteries that can last for ten years. 

3

Test Smoke Alarm

Before you finish re-installing the smoke detector, make sure its new battery or batteries work. Locate the test button and press it for a few seconds to engage the test.

• If your test alarm doesn’t sound, check battery connections and try different batteries. 
• If your smoke alarm fails the test with new batteries, then you need to replace your smoke detector. 

Tip: Be safe. Do not re-install your smoke alarm unless you are sure it is working properly.

4

Smoke Alarm Tips

• Fire safety experts recommend you replace your smoke alarm battery two times a year. A good rule of thumb is to change it when the clocks change in the fall and spring. Or, set a calendar reminder for when to change your smoke alarm batteries.
• Replace the backup battery in a hard-wire unit yearly whether it beeps or not.
• Mark the date you changed your battery on the inside of the smoke alarm.
• Buy a new smoke detector or smoke alarm every 10 years. After 10 years, smoke alarms expire. You can calculate the expiration date by looking on the back of the device to see the manufacture date.
• Check your smoke detectors, CO alarms and fire extinguishers at least once a year to ensure they are up-to-date.
• It's recommended you place smoke detectors inside each bedroom, right outside sleeping areas, on every level of your home, in the living room and near stairwells.

Following these steps will make your home more secure in case of a fire. Keeping your smoke alarm up-to-date, as well as making sure the batteries work, will ensure your home remains safe.

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