Is your smoke alarm not working as well as it should be? With the warmer weather now in full swing and risk of bushfires on the rise, there’s no better time to check.
The focus of this article will be on key signs your smoke alarm is malfunctioning (and may need replacing), how often your smoke alarms should be tested and serviced and how the expert team at Erose Electrical can assist you.
Smoke Alarm Safety for Queensland Homeowners
Before discussing the key signs that indicate a need for a new smoke alarm in your home, we thought it best to mention the legislation surrounding smoke alarm installation in Queensland.
Did you know that the legislation surrounding smoke alarm installation in residential properties changed in 2021? While it was always necessary to enlist a qualified electrician (such as those we have on the ERose Electrical team) to install smoke alarms, now:
- They must be interconnected: this means that all your smoke alarms must work on a circuit that is connected. So, if one smoke alarm detects smoke, all the alarms in your home would sound the alarm
- They can’t be more than 10 years old.
- They must be photoelectric and installed in each bedroom of your home.
If your residential smoke alarms do not yet comply with these regulations, don’t worry. You have until 2027 to make sure they do.
Signs You Need a New Smoke Alarm
Let’s get down to it and discuss the signs that may indicate your alarm is in need of servicing or replacement.
If It Doesn’t Comply
It goes without saying: if your smoke alarm installation doesn’t comply with the legislation we discussed above. Contact the team at Erose Electrical to discuss your options.
When it’s Beeping or Chirping
If your smoke alarm is beeping or chirping, it’s a sign it needs replacing (or at the very least servicing). This is especially the case when you’ve replaced the batteries or had an electrician review the issue and it still persists.
It Goes Off
Is your smoke alarm ultra-sensitive and goes off when there’s no need for it to? It may be time to replace it.
You Hear Tinkling Sounds
Tinkling sounds may indicate faulty wiring. As such, you’ll want to arrange for an inspection by an electrician to ensure your alarm will be effective in an emergency.
It Fails Testing
We all know we should test smoke alarms on a regular basis. If you’ve tested your smoke alarm and it doesn’t respond, you’re in the market for a new one.
How ERose Electrical Can Help
Since 2015, we’ve specialised in smoke alarm installation and maintenance to ensure you and your family are safe in your home. Our qualified, experienced electricians recommend you have your smoke alarms professionally serviced at least once a year and can assist with all your individual requirements.
Book a smoke alarm installation today by contacting the friendly, knowledgeable team at Erose Electrical.
