How Often Should You Test Your Smoke Alarms? A Quick Guide for Sunshine Coast Homes

Still remember the last time you had your smoke alarm tested? If you happen to forget already, then you’re not alone. A lot of homeowners neglect this important task that could be a lifesaver in the future. A smoke alarm functions as the earliest warning system in case of fire, and having consistent tests for this device is a crucial factor between a minor incident and an undesirable tragedy.

The warm climate here in Sunshine Coast often results in more frequent use of electrical appliances which may increase the risk of fire if combined with other factors. Considering this, a smoke alarm maintenance is an absolute necessity for homeowners. At Axon Electrical, we are sincerely committed to secure the safety of homeowners and to be a great help in meeting significant safety regulations. We know how much you value your home as your sanctuary and protecting it from fire hazards is our utmost priority.

Aside from taking the first step to install a smoke alarm, its functionality, placement, and the importance of routine maintenance should also be deeply understood.  A good working smoke alarm system will save you and your family precious minutes to safely evacuate and to give time for emergency services to respond quickly. Don't allow your family’s safety by chance, secure a regular smoke alarm testing as a non-negotiable maintenance of your home.

Queensland Smoke Alarm Laws: A Guide

Let's take a look at the smoke alarm laws in Queensland which came into effect in 2022 to secure the safety of the residents which require specific types of smoke alarms and its proper placement in your home. It is crucial for homeowners, landlords and tenants to understand this regulation not just to avoid penalties but most importantly to protect lives and property.

• Photoelectric Technology (Not Ionisation)

This updated law requires photoelectric smoke alarms instead of the old ionisation alarms. These alarms are more effective in detecting smoldering fires and are common in homes where it recognizes any visible smoke before the appearance of flames. Having these alarms make early warning systems superior as compared to the older ionisation alarms. Complying with this more advanced technology is highly recommended as it safeguards more of our homes. 

• Interconnected Systems: A Coordinated Alert

A single alarm might not be enough so installing an interconnected smoke alarm system is the new mandate, which is important for all occupants to receive alerts simultaneously in case smoke is detected within the same area. Following this will significantly reduce the risk of being trapped by fire especially in larger or multi-level homes. In this case, there would be enough time for people to evacuate. 

• Power Sources: Hardwired or Long-Life Battery for Reliability

To ensure uninterrupted operation, the power supply requirements

for smoke alarms are:

• Hardwired to the Mains Power Supply

  The smoke alarms should be wired directly into the home’s electrical system to have a consistent power source. This will also avoid the need to have battery replacements. 

• Non-Removable 10-Year Battery

  In case hardwiring is not practical, alarms with non-removable 10-year lithium batteries are recommended. With these batteries, an ineffective alarm problem caused by expired batteries can be eliminated. This aims to simplify maintenance and provide overall reliability of smoke detection systems.

• Strategically Place Smoke Alarms 

  
  

  It is important to consider placing the smoke alarms in locations that provide optimal coverage. Under the new law, the following are the specific location to strategically place the smoke alarms:

  
  

  • Every Bedroom: This will make sure that every occupant will receive alerts whenever a smoke will be detected in their areas especially when they are asleep.

  • Hallways Servicing Bedrooms: Placing alarms in the hallways allows early warning in case of fires coming from the kitchen or living room. This is crucial for residents to hear alarms in their sleeping areas.

  • On every level of your home: For multi-level homes, each floor should have an alarm to ensure that a smoke is detected, and an alert is raised regardless of where the fire originated. This will also allow a smooth and safe evacuation in every floor level of the property.

The Rationale Behind Stricter Laws

These new regulations were imposed to create a strong defense against house fires, to lessen fatalities and to improve the safety of every home. Compliance with these laws is crucial, not just for legal reasons, but because they are essential for safeguarding lives and property.

How Often Should You Test Your Smoke Alarms?

Follow these schedules to keep your alarms in optimal condition:

• Do a monthly test of alarms

  Check your test button to ensure you hear a loud beep. If the sound is weak or has no sound, the battery needs to be replaced, or the unit should be checked.

• Clean alarms every 6 months

  Remove the dust that could block the alarm’s sensor with the use of a vacuum or soft brush 

• Battery replacement every year

  The best time to replace batteries is at the end of daylight-saving time unless a 10-year lithium battery is being used

• Replace the entire unit every 10 years

  The alarm should be replaced every 10 years even if it’s still beeping, the sensors in the unit wear out over time.

Pro Tip: Set a recurring reminder in your calendar so you don’t forget. Or better yet—make it part of your monthly cleaning routine.

Need Help Upgrading or Testing Your Smoke Alarms?

Want to make sure that you comply with the smoke alarm legislation? Here at Axon Electrical we can make inspection of your alarm, including testing and upgrades to ensure full protection of your home.

We offer top quality services that you can trust and ensure your compliance with smoke alarm regulations. 

📞 Call us for an obligation-free quote – (07) 4802 0303

📩 Email us to get a free quote -   info@axonelec.com.au