What should you do if it keeps chirping even without a battery? The first step is making sure it is free of dust to prevent unwanted beeping.
It might surprise you why it keeps chirping. Most units have a backup battery, explaining why your device is still beeping. The backup battery might have become active a long time ago, but the beeping only started recently after the charge ran out. Do note it is only possible with hardwired units. If you have a battery-only unit, there is another reason for the beeping.
Check if you have closed the battery drawer correctly if you own a battery-operated detector. The alarm becomes weaker over time, indicating a replacement is due soon. Maintaining clean hardware is important as it could trigger an unnecessary warning.
Now that we have enumerated the possible reasons your smoke alarm chirps, below is some basic troubleshooting.
Close the Battery Drawer for the Backup
The backup battery is useful for power outages, making it possible to detect fire even when the electricity is out. The backup is contained within a drawer as well. The unit will regularly chirp if the drawer is not closed correctly. Secure the latch to prevent it from beeping.
Replace the Backup Battery
The backup battery also needs replacing when it dies. Even if your unit uses power from the AC power cord, the backup could still run out. To replace it, follow the below general guidelines.
- Remove at least two screws found on the side of the detector.
- Carefully pull the battery compartment.
- Install the replacement.
- Put everything back together and seal tightly.
After the fact, expect it to alarm a few times to clear any issues after replacement. Any unnecessary beeps or chirps should stop.
Reconnect all the Cables
There may be issues with the wiring, causing unnecessary alarms to trigger. It can be because of debris. We recommend detaching and reconnecting all cables you can. Make sure there are no loose connections. You might also want to plug your unit into another outlet to eliminate any possible issues with the current one.
Reset your Circuit Breaker
A simple reset might fix the chirping issue. Here are steps to follow in resetting your circuit breaker:
- Find the circuit breaker
- Press and hold the switch for 15 seconds
- Turn the circuit breaker back ON.
After finishing these steps, it should reset. The sound should go away.
Make Use of the Hush Button
Most units have a hush button to stop the detector from chirping. The hush button should stop it from sounding for about seven minutes. If it does not stop, the issue is with the software or hardware.
First Alert
If your First Alert unit beeps three times per minute, it indicates a malfunction. The immediate action you need to take is to replace it with a new one as soon as possible.
Check your warranty coverage. You can get a replacement if it is still within warranty. Get a replacement by returning the alarm. If available, you can bring any proof of purchase, such as an official receipt.
Twice and then stops.
It could be several reasons. The first step is to check the unit’s manufacturing and expiration date. Most fire detectors last for eight to ten years. If your alarm exceeds that range, it is time to get a replacement.
If it is still within its life expectancy, you may want to check the batteries as these may need changing.
Once daily.
It typically happens at night or dawn. The temperature goes down at night. As a result, the batteries produce less power. The unit senses that the battery is weak, resulting in a chirping sound.
Remember to check all your units at home regularly. Replace it as soon as it weakens.
Even with a new battery
If it is still beeping even after a battery replacement, there may be other issues with your smoke detector. Before checking, make sure the new batteries are new. Some may have expired, causing your unit to beep. Once you have confirmed it is not a battery issue, try draining any residual charge. It may also need some cleaning.
Have you found out whether one of the following things may be causing the issue?
- The unit needs changing
- There’s low battery in the unit
- The battery drawer is open.
We hope you found a tip here to see what factors may be influencing your device. It might just be steam affecting it!
First Alert
When it comes to a combination alarm, here’s our recommendation.
| Name | Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector |
| Alarm | Audible |
| Color | White |
| Company headquarters | Aurora, Il |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 2 x 5 x 5 inches |
| Manufacturer | First Alert |
| Power Source | Battery Powered |
| Sensor Type | Electrochemical, Photoelectric |
Pros
- It works as intended
- First Alert is a trusted brand.
- It’s easy to use
Cons
- You don’t get the ability to customize the same way you would with a Google Nest Protect.
- There are cheaper alarms out there from less reputable companies.
- Some reports of false alarms.
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