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Home — Resources — Why we do a smoke test during a smoke alarm service
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Why we do a smoke test during a smoke alarm service

06 July 2019
smoke alarm technician doing a smoke test
Ask someone to test a smoke alarm, and chances are they’ll tell you to press the ‘test’ button on the alarm.

Pressing the ‘test’ button only tests if the sound of the alarm is working; it has nothing to do with whether the device can actually detect smoke.

Every smoke alarm contains 3 main elements – a smoke detection mechanism, a sounding alarm and battery power source.

Pressing the ‘test’ button will only test 2 out these 3 elements. Conducting a smoke test using a smoke simulant is the only way to make sure all 3 elements are working properly.

Moreover, many smoke alarm manuals expressly discourage using an open flame near the device.

This eliminates the idea of lighting a match and holding it near the alarm. Instead, all Detector Inspector technicians use UL-rated cans of smoke for their tests.

Every smoke alarm inspected by a Detector Inspector technician is placed through a rigorous testing process. This involves:

  • replacement of the 9v battery in all battery powered smoke alarms
  • a decibel test to ensure the audible output of the smoke alarm is no less than 85 decibels (dBA); AND
  • a smoke test using a smoke simulant to ensure the smoke alarm is working effectively.

Only by testing all 3 elements of a smoke alarm, can we ensure the device will operate properly during a fire.

A false sense of security is no way to protect a home and family. Let Detector Inspector manage the fire safety in your property.

Detector Inspector’s comprehensive annual smoke alarm safety service ensures that each property is compliant with the smoke alarm legislation applicable in its state.

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