How to Change Smoke Alarm Batteries
- 1). Locate your smoke alarm user's manual. Fire and smoke alarms always come with a user's manual. If you cannot find your user's manual, look online at the manufacturer's website for a digital copy of the manual. In the manual, find the section on replacing batteries. Some smoke alarm batteries are intended to last the life of the smoke alarm and never need to be replaced.
- 2). Find an appropriate battery. In the user's manual, determine the type of battery needed. Most alarms, such as many by Kidde and First Alert, require a 9-volt battery; others may require two AA or AAA batteries. A few newer models use lithium ion batteries. Make sure the battery is new or fully charged before you install it.
- 3). Open the smoke alarm unit. Some systems require the user to first unlock the smoke alarm from the mounting bracket. Once it is snapped free from the main base, you can open the battery compartment. Some First Alert systems require the user to insert a flathead screwdriver into the battery compartment to pry loose a locking mechanism; other First Alert and Kidde systems simply require prying open the battery compartment with your fingers.
- 4). Change the battery. Remove the old battery, noting its placement and exact location before you remove it. Place the new battery into the compartment, and snap the battery into place.
- 5). Test the unit and reseal. Before you reseal the battery compartment, test the smoke alarm. Every smoke alarm comes equipped with a testing feature, so press the testing button according to the manufacturer's direction. Wait for the beep, and reseal the unit. If you removed the alarm from the wall or ceiling, put it back into place.
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