How Old Are Your Smoke Detectors?

NY_Yankees_Fan · May 10, 2006

Smoke detectors should be changed after 10 years of service as per NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm Code, 2002 edition, see below.

10.4.6 Replacement of Smoke Alarms in One- and Two-Family Dwellings. Unless otherwise recommended by the manufacturer, single- and multiple-station smoke alarms installed in one- and two-family dwellings shall be replaced when they fail to respond to operability tests, but shall not remain in service longer than 10 years from the date of manufacture.

So since by detectors were 12 years old /forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif, I replaced all 8 detectors with a combination smoke detector. The combination of ionization and photoelectric sensors offer the best protection against both fast flaming and slow smoldering fires. The units run off 120v household current with battery back up.

Here is info from the manufacture.

web page

This is were I got them, $36 each plus shipping.

web page

You may want to add this to the list of things to do. It has been on my list for a while, finally got around to it. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

BB_TX · May 11, 2006

Good idea, Tom. Mine are probably 20 yrs old. I change the batteries regularly and press the test button to see if they sound. But I don't really know they would respond to smoke after so long.
I will put that on my short list of things to do.
(Sounds like you may be on the 72 committee. I am on the 85 committee and enjoy the experience.)

Danno1 · May 12, 2006

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I don't know how old mine are, but I know they work. Every time the wife cooks!!! /forums/images/graemlins/shocked.gif

NY_Yankees_Fan · May 12, 2006

Dan,

Does she cook in every room of the house with a smoke detector? /forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif If so you are set, they work. /forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif