Smoke & CO Detector Replacement Schedule
Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are easy to forget because they sit quietly until they are needed. This schedule covers where alarms belong, how often to test them, when to replace batteries, how to track manufacture dates, and when old devices should be replaced instead of trusted.
Safety
9 tasksGeneral
1 taskSources
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Frequently Asked Questions
How often should smoke detectors be replaced?
Replace smoke alarms every 10 years from the manufacture date, or sooner if the alarm fails a test, is damaged, has been painted over, or repeatedly chirps after the battery is replaced.
How long do carbon monoxide detectors last?
Follow the manufacturer label and end-of-life signal. Many CO alarms last about 5-10 years, but the printed date on the device is the schedule that matters for that model.
Where should smoke and CO alarms be installed?
Install smoke alarms inside sleeping areas, outside sleeping areas, and on every level. Install CO alarms outside sleeping areas and on every level, especially in homes with fuel-burning appliances, fireplaces, or attached garages.
How often should I test alarms?
Test smoke and CO alarms monthly. Replace 9-volt batteries yearly, replace low-battery devices immediately, and replace the full alarm when it reaches its end-of-life date.