Testing a smoke alarm confirms that the horn, battery connection, and basic sensing circuit respond. It should be done regularly without removing the alarm from its mounting plate.
Notify household members
Tell anyone nearby that the alarm will sound. Keep hearing protection and do not test during a situation where an alarm signal could be missed.
Press the test button
Use a stable step stool and press the button until the alarm sounds. Follow the model instructions for the expected pattern.
Replace weak batteries
If the alarm chirps, sounds weak, or fails the test, replace the battery with the specified type. Interconnected alarms may sound together.
Replace old alarms
Check the manufacture date and replace alarms at the interval recommended by the manufacturer or local safety guidance.