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View Full Version : Smoke detectors go off for no reason


jonnabee33
Nov 13, 2008, 05:22 PM
Every once in a while the smoke detectors in my house will beep for no reason. It is not the same beep that goes off when the batteried need to be changed or there is a fire. I looked in the trouble shooting section of the manual and the beeping that happens isn't even listed. I did change the batteries and it still happens. When I reset the alarm it stops, but every once in a while it happens again, and it's not just one of them, it has happened with 3 or 4. The brand is Brinks. Any clue on why this is happening?:confused:

KISS
Nov 13, 2008, 06:52 PM
If they are photoelectric, the detectors may be dirty.

There are basically two types of smoke detectors. Ionization and photoelectric. Ionization has a small radioactive source in it and won't respond to dust. Ionization will only respond to smoke, but are more expensive.

KISS
Nov 15, 2008, 03:13 PM
I should add. You can clean by purchasing a "can of air" such as these: Discover cheap office supplies at wholesale prices on officediscountclub.com - G05705 (http://officediscountclub.com/g05705.aspx?gclid=CKr9hrya-JYCFQhMGgodoXDdXw)

MTColl28734
Nov 16, 2008, 03:10 AM
Try either blowing it out, as previously mentioned, or use your vacuum cleaner. In my experience, dust buildup is the biggest cause of smoke detector problems. You should do it at least twice a year.