In the instance of a house fire, fire alarms will serve an important part in keeping you and your family safe. However, a false alert might be annoying particularly if it continually releases a high-pitched chirp.
Fire alarms come in two main varieties: photoelectric and ionization. When smoke enters the chamber, both methods of fire and smoke detection will turn on, although both are susceptible to malfunction. These problems may be caused by poor construction, sensitive smoke detectors, or outside influences that interfere with the device’s operation triggering false alarms.
You’ll eventually ask: What are the reasons why the fire alarm going off randomly? Continue reading the article as we provide the reasons why fire alarm going off randomly.
Reasons Why Fire Alarm Going Off Randomly
The following are the common reasons why fire alarm going off randomly:
#8 Battery Life
Typically, fire alarms release little chirping noises when their batteries are low or when they aren’t connected properly. Even if that isn’t a fire alarm, it is a warning that you must check your device. Replace batteries at the beginning and end of daylight-saving time, twice a year.
#7 Defective or Damaged Product
Typically, fire alarms last for ten years or less. As fire alarms age, there will be a higher rate of false alarms. Replace your fire alarms with a new one right away if it is more than ten years old.
#6 Pests and Bugs
Although bugs and pests are uncomfortable, you may easily get rid of them from the fire alarm. The cringe-worthy sound of the fire alarm can be set off by the movement of tiny eight-legged intruders.
If there are bugs and pests around, you might think about using pest control sprays. Avoid spraying directly on the fire alarm itself, though. Devices are vulnerable to harm. Make sure there is enough room between the fire alarm and any pest control sprays.
#5 Strong Chemicals
False alerts from fire alarms may occur from painting or applying strong chemicals inside your property. Fire alarms may go off without reason when they detect chemicals. To avoid the startling loudness of your fire alarm, ventilate any places where you paint or use chemicals.
#4 Too Much Dust or Debris
Similar to smoke, dust may catch tiny particles, giving you a false alert. To get rid of tiny particles, use an electronic spray cleaner or vacuum attachment while paying strict attention to the alarms. Be careful and try not to handle the alarms too roughly.
#3 High Humidity and Steam
There is a possibility that these heavy water particles are setting off your fire alarm if you live in an area that has high humidity. To avoid this, keep the air in your property circulating by using a fan, turning off your humidifiers, or opening a window to let in some fresh air.
#2 Smoke from The Kitchen’s Food
When it comes to false alerts from fire alarms, kitchens frequently commit such acts. The residues of overcooked food at the bottom of toasters, such as burnt popcorn, seem to be particularly problematic. Maintaining a safe distance between these objects and your fire alarm can be helpful.
But keep in mind that sensitive fire alarms are necessary for their effectiveness. Place your fire alarms close enough to these hazards to prevent bigger issues.
#1 Smoke from The Inside Fireplaces or Campfires Outside
The fire alarm keeps going off because your fireplace occasionally sends smoke into your property. But it’s not the alarm’s fault. Both the dampers and your chimney might not be correctly adjusted. If smoke enters your property through your fireplace, hire a chimney cleaner.
How to Place the Fire Alarm Properly?
In the unfortunate case of a fire, installing fire alarms properly and making sure they are functioning properly can save lives. It will be simpler to escape safely and call the fire department for assistance the earlier you become aware of a fire.
The following are recommendations on how to place the forearm properly in your property:
- There should be a fire alarm on each floor of the property, including the basement.
- Install fire alarms on ceilings anywhere you can (remember, smoke rises).
- The ceiling of the basement, directly below the stairs, should be installed with fire alarms.
- If it is not possible to put a fire alarm on the ceiling, place it on the wall no more than 12 inches from the ceiling.
- The recommended distance between any cooking device and a fire alarm is 10 feet.
- Place fire alarms in each bedroom and areas outside of sleeping rooms.
- Smoke alarms shouldn’t be painted or tampered with.
- Fire alarms should not be placed next to windows, doors, or anyplace else where a draft or breeze could affect how well they work.
Summary
When a fire alarm has reached the end of its useful life, it can be the reason why the fire alarm going off randomly. A fire alarm’s lifespan is roughly ten years, after which time it must be replaced.
Keep in mind that fire alarms are designed to be sensitive. It’s not always the case that the device that raises a false alarm is malfunctioning. They are there to help you put out a fire before it poses a danger to your safety. Place your fire alarms in an area that is not too near nor too far from any potential fire hazards.
If the fire alarm failed to sound an alert, the smoke likely caused severe soot damage to the area around it. In this case, you’ll need a disaster restoration professional who professionally deals with fire and smoke damages.
