The loud, high-pitched beeping of your fire alarm system can be annoying to you and possibly the neighbors. However, you shouldn't turn off the smoke detectors since you'll need them should a real emergency ever arise. Instead, learn what may be causing these false alarms below.

Why Is Your Fire Alarm System Always Going Off?

1. Positioning

Keeping a smoke detector too close to the stovetop or toaster will lead it to go off more frequently. Ideally, you should keep the alarm at least 10 feet away from smoke-producing appliances. That might not be possible in every kitchen, so you may need to move the device to a connecting hallway.

These machines can also often confuse steam for smoke, so if yours is right next to a bathroom, moisture could be triggering it. Additionally, if the alarm is right beside a window or door, smoke or other particles from the outside air could drift in and set it off.

2. Bad Battery

Smoke detectors begin to emit high-pitched chirping sounds every 30 to 60 seconds when their batteries are dying. Battery-powered alarms often run on either 9V or AA batteries that need to be replaced every six months. Afterward, be sure to test the alarm.

Lithium-ion powered models don't rely on external batteries, but this type of alarm should be replaced every 10 years.

3. Humidity

Like steam, the humidity in your home could be another potential trigger, so crack a window in your bathroom or add a fan to ventilate the space. Do the same in the kitchen and run the vent above the stove.

Water can also lead to humidity, so check for signs of leaks near the smoke detector, such as rusty or brown stains in the ceiling. Moisture can damage the device, so if this is the case, you may need a replacement.

4. Bugs or Dust

Smoke detectors have chambers big enough for small insects to crawl through or for dust to accumulate. These nuisances can then trip up the sensors.

To prevent pests, spray insecticide around the smoke detector. However, be sure none gets on the device itself, as it can damage electronics. Also, use a vacuum brush attachment to clean the smoke detector every six months.

Additionally, you can remove the casing to check for bugs and debris inside. When doing this, compressed air is the best way to remove dust, as a vacuum attachment may be too rough for the sensors. If your alarm can't be easily cleaned, it's best to replace it outright.

If you need help moving, fixing, or replacing your alarm system, contact Zelek Electric in Old Lyme, CT. They're available 24/7 to answer clients’ questions, and they have an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau®. Visit them online to review their wide range of services, or call (860) 434-9726 to schedule an appointment with an electrical contractor today.