There is no doubt: Smoke alarms save lives! But what many people don’t realise is that smoke alarms have a 10-year life span.
To quote the CFA:
“Smoke alarms have a lifespan of about 10 years. After that, you should replace them. Most smoke alarms have a use-by date printed on them. If your alarm is still beeping after you have changed its battery, the smoke alarm should be replaced. New smoke alarms with a long-lasting lithium battery have a 10-year lifespan to ensure you and your family can feel the highest level of security. Existing hard-wired, 240-volt smoke alarms must be replaced with new hard-wired smoke alarms and this can only be done by a licensed electrician.”
Unfortunately, many consumers who faithfully change their smoke alarm batteries every year, aren’t aware of their 10-year life span and could be putting their families at risk by not replacing them.
The point: Regardless of which type of smoke alarm you have – battery or hard-wired, they should be replaced every 10 years.
If you have a hard-wired smoke alarm, you must use an electrician to replace it. Please contact Tucker Wired to assist you and keep your family safe.
How do I know how old my smoke alarm is?
The manufacture date of the smoke alarm or the expiry date should be printed on the back of the alarm near the serial number. If your alarm is looking faded or yellowed and you do not know when the alarm was installed, it’s probably time to replace it.
Additional information can be found on the CFA website here:
https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/plan-prepare/fires-in-the-home/smoke-alarms/installation-and-maintenance
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