LifeNRA Posted January 22, 2009 Report Share Posted January 22, 2009 I have them on each of the floors, and in each bedroom. I went around the other day checking them periodically like I always do. I have the kind that has the light sensitive test button. Well, none of them went off! Opened one up to check the batteries, because it wasn't all that long ago I changed them. Very strong yet. ??????? Tried them again, nothing! Then I realized I changed my flashlights with a LED upgrade! Got another flashlight with a normal bulb, it worked! It seems that the smoke detector can not see the LED light! So for those that have this type, its possible you can not use LED flashlights. This might save you some headaches thinking it doesn't work or you may need new batteries! ;) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
WIwhitetailhunter Posted January 22, 2009 Report Share Posted January 22, 2009 Don't know how old your detectors are but did you know they actually can "die". I was told by a guy who does sprinkler installs that there is something inside a detector that "wears out" over time making them inoperable. Maybe yours are nearing there life expectancy date and that's part of the problem? It is a good idea to check your detectors often though. Better off knowing somethings wrong before you actually need them to save your life! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Adjam5 Posted January 22, 2009 Report Share Posted January 22, 2009 I have installed 110v smoke detectors so the battery issue is non existent here. If you have a light fixture nearby it is a easy install. Most power is brought to the ceiling box and then the line side is broke by the switch. So a constant source of power should be present.The hardest part is cutting in the box to mount the smoke head. Something to consider. But good advice non the less. They sell smoke in a aerosol can to test the heads. It can be purchased in Electrical supply houses. I think smoke heads have some radioactive material in them for long operation. I could be wrong on that though. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Leo Posted January 22, 2009 Report Share Posted January 22, 2009 I actually posted on the subject of smoke detectors a couple months ago. CHECK THE WARRANTY DATE on your smoke detectors. Your batteries might be good and it may still go "BEEP!" when tested but the sensors in them have a shorter life than the rest of the components. Detectors have a warranty life on them from the date of manufacture. The ones that use "ionization" sensors do have a radioactive element in them that is decaying throughout the life of the smoke detector. Eventually the sensors stop working. You can still "test" the units and they may seem fine but the truth is they might not work when really exposed to smoke if they are outside warranty. Even if you "smoke" test them you have no way of knowing if the sensitivity it was originally designed to have has been compromised. Get new units if they are out of warranty. You can't just throw the old "ionization" ones in the trash either. They are radioactive and that's a no-no for landfills. By law you are supposed to take them to the nearest fire department for disposal. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
WIwhitetailhunter Posted January 22, 2009 Report Share Posted January 22, 2009 Leo, I remember your post mentioned here. That is what prompted me to ask my friend about the detectors. He told me almost exactly what you posted. (not that I doubted you) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
LifeNRA Posted January 22, 2009 Author Report Share Posted January 22, 2009 They are not old. Most detectors have a ten year life then they need to be replaced. Just posting my findings with a different light source. I too remember Leo's post about his experience! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Leo Posted January 22, 2009 Report Share Posted January 22, 2009 They are not old. Most detectors have a ten year life then they need to be replaced. Just posting my findings with a different light source. I too remember Leo's post about his experience! True most are 10 year life detectors. When I was searching for replacements I was surprised to learn that some models are only warranted for 3 years! They were real cheap and I'm sure that's why. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
stevebeilgard Posted January 23, 2009 Report Share Posted January 23, 2009 glad you caught the problem before it caught you Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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