In general, smoke detectors last about ten years. If your smoke detectors are approaching that age (or have already surpassed it), it’s time to have them replaced.

Several conditions can cause a hardwired smoke detector to chirp. Inspect your smoke detectors for signs of the following problems:

• The backup battery may be dying. Replace smoke detector batteries at least once every year.
• The backup battery may not be installed correctly. Check the terminal connections and make sure the battery tray is completely closed.
• Dust can accumulate around the smoke sensor, causing a false alarm. Insects inside the unit have also been known to trigger the chirp. Use a vacuum brush attachment to clean out the device.
• A high temperature or humidity level in the home can trigger the sensor. Turn on the air conditioner to bring those levels down.
• The hardwired smoke detectors might need to be reset. Turn off the appropriate circuit breaker, wait five minutes, and then flip the breaker back on.
• There could be a problem with the wiring that causes an irregular power supply to the unit. This is a troubleshooting job for a licensed electrician, like Mr. Electric.
• If the smoke detector is ten years old or more, it is probably failing and should be replaced by Mr. Electric.