If the battery does not fully turn on the smoke detector, it cannot work properly. A constant beat that takes place every 30-60 seconds can be a sign that the battery is dying. If the reserve battery is low, the cable detector can sting until the battery changes.

Smoke alarms will make a whistle or whistle noise when they have a low battery or are defective. All smoke alarms also have a red light that flashes instantly every 40-60 seconds to indicate visually that it works. The same red light flashes continuously when the smoke alarm has been activated.

It is typical that smoke alarms turn off and touch for a while (up to 5-10 seconds) when a new battery is installed or switched on. In case the alarm continues to turn off and there is no smoke present, the cause may be that there is not enough battery power. Try another battery.

The National Fire Protection Association recommends the replacement of fire alarms every ten years, since the sensors are degraded in quality to the point that they cease to be effective.

Best 10-year Battery Code Kidde 1 Sealed 10-year Battery Smoke Detector. Most experts recommend changing the batteries of their smoke detectors every six months, and it can be quite expensive if you have several units installed throughout your home.