Why Does a Smoke Detector Emit a Low, Intermittent Beep?
Low, intermittent beeping from a smoke detector indicates a low battery. Most models of smoke detectors use the chirping as a precautionary measure to ensure the detector does not become nonoperational due to a dead battery.RecommendationsTo avoid the warning signal from a battery-operated smoke detector, you should change the detector’s alkaline batteries every year, according to an article in “Popular Mechanics.” It is also recommended that you test the detector routinely, which can be done on most models by pressing and holding the button on the unit until it sounds.Battery TypesAlkaline batteries have a life of one to two years, so smoke detectors using these batteries will need to be serviced more often. Using lithium batteries in a smoke detector lengthens the time between battery changes, according to “Electrical Systems.”AlternativesMost smoke detectors use intermittent beeping up to 30 days before the batteries are worn down to warn consumers. One alternative is to purchase a
