Smoke Alarm FAQs

Smoke Alarm and Smoke Detector FAQs Below is a detailed list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) for Smoke Alarms and Smoke Detectors. Click on a subject heading below to view answers relating to your selection. Links will guide you to further information on our website or from other sources. Should you have any further questions, please contact our Consumer Affairs Department, Monday-Friday, 7:30 am to 5:00 pm (Central Standard Time) at 1-800-323-9005. Hours are subject to change without notice.

General FAQ

Ionization smoke detectors vs. Photoelectric type smoke detectors - what is the difference?

Why does my smoke detector go off when I install a battery or turn on the AC power?

My smoke alarm keeps chirping, even with a new battery. What is causing this?

I lost my First Alert® smoke alarm owner's manual. How can I get a new one?

It is recommended that alarms are replaced after 10 years. Why does the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommend that home smoke alarms be replaced after 10 years?

I have a "remote control smoke detector" - a smoke alarm that states that you can use your TV remote control to silence or test this alarm - that will not operate. What should I do?

How long will the smoke detector battery last in my smoke alarm?

What is the proper placement of smoke detectors?

Intermittent Alarm FAQs

Ionization smoke detectors vs. Photoelectric type smoke detectors - what is the difference?

Why does my smoke detector go off when I install a battery or turn on the AC power?

My smoke alarm keeps chirping, even with a new battery. What is causing this?

I lost my First Alert® smoke alarm owner's manual. How can I get a new one?

It is recommended that alarms are replaced after 10 years. Why does the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommend that home smoke alarms be replaced after 10 years?

I have a "remote control smoke detector" - a smoke alarm that states that you can use your TV remote control to silence or test this alarm - that will not operate. What should I do?

How long will the smoke detector battery last in my smoke alarm?

What is the proper placement of smoke detectors?

Technology FAQ

Ionization smoke detectors vs. Photoelectric type smoke detectors - what is the difference?

Why does my smoke detector go off when I install a battery or turn on the AC power?

My smoke alarm keeps chirping, even with a new battery. What is causing this?

I lost my First Alert® smoke alarm owner's manual. How can I get a new one?

It is recommended that alarms are replaced after 10 years. Why does the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommend that home smoke alarms be replaced after 10 years?

I have a "remote control smoke detector" - a smoke alarm that states that you can use your TV remote control to silence or test this alarm - that will not operate. What should I do?

How long will the smoke detector battery last in my smoke alarm?

What is the proper placement of smoke detectors?