Smoke Alarms

Do you know that smoke detectors are mandatory in Australia and must be constantly maintained and replaced every 10 years?

The Australian Building Code requires that all new houses must have smoke alarms complying with AS3786:2014 installed and interconnected. All existing homes should have a working smoke alarms by 2027, we recommend a 10 year lithium battery alarm as minimum protection.

There are different types of smoke alarms and detectors on the market, but photoelectric sensing technology is the preferred type, which reliably detects smoke from smoldering fires, the most common and riskiest type of fire in residential settings.

Why should smoke alarms be replaced every 10 years?

Smoke alarm sensors will become less sensitive over time and the build-up of dust, insects and other contaminants can affect the operation of the smoke alarm over it's 10 year life.

Corrosion of the electrical components can also cause the alarm to deteriorate.

Detectors have labels that show when they were manufactured. If you don't see a label, the alarm is old and needs to be replaced.

Regular maintenance of your alarms or detectors can prevent accidents in homes, every month, press the buttons to check their correct function. If your detectors use normal batteries, replace them with new batteries at least once a year. A “chirping” sound means it is time to change the batteries. Dust and cobwebs make it difficult for smoke detectors to detect smoke. To preserve your alarms, clean them with one of the vacuum attachments.

Consult Brissy Electrical & Air Conditioning if you are planning to install or replace your smoke alarms, or simply have a question regarding your existing alarms.