Smoke and CO Detectors

I know, you have probably all heard it at least a dozen times.... but that's what makes it even more puzzling to me that I find SOO MANY smoke detectors not working, or operating improperly.

Those of us that have the battery type that are not tied into any electrical system are the most at risk, because it is VERY EASY to forget to change those 9 volt batteries (that have now become quite expensive). Of course the rule of thumb is to change the batteries whenever the time changes to or from daylight savings time (about every 6 months).

It's not that the battery type is unreliable, but it's more about US being unreliable in changing the batteries. (Hint: when you hear that little "chirp" every so often, and can't figure out where the noise is coming from... chances are real good that it is your battery operated smoke detector telling you that it wants a NEW BATTERY- NOW!)

Even the ones that are "hard-wired" to the electrical system still have a battery backup that needs to be changed every so often. AND these detectors should also be tested with the "test button" at regular intervals as well. ( I know, you don't like hearing that screaching in your ears... maybe wear some earplugs before you do the testing- I do!)

I usually test them near the end of the home inspection, put in my earplugs, and send everyone else outside. This way, no one gets the ringing in their ears.

This house actually had the packing plastic still installed over all the smoke detectors!

I'm afraid smoke would have a hard time getting through the plastic.