Without Good Batteries, Your Smoke Alarm Could Fail You. Here’s How to Replace Them Properly

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Smoke detectors are one of the most important electronic devices you have in your home. Ensuring they’re in good working condition starts with using the best batteries for your devices and keeping them up to date. The standard rule of thumb for battery-operated smoke detectors is to change them twice a year. Whether you have an alkaline-battery, lithium-battery, or wired smoke alarm, it is essential to understand when you need to change the batteries or replace the unit altogether.

What Are the Best Batteries for Smoke Detectors?

Smoke detectors can be powered by lithium or alkaline batteries or can be hard-wired with a backup battery. That said, the best batteries for smoke detectors depend on the manufacturer of your devices. Each product has a label that recommends the exact battery type, power, and even brand to get the best results. It is crucial to read your detector’s specific recommendations and follow them to ensure your device works properly.

Here’s a rundown of the pros and cons of each of the two main types of batteries for smoke detectors: lithium vs. alkaline batteries.

Lithium batteries

Lithium batteries offer some of the best and longest-lasting performance among all types of batteries, including alkaline batteries. Lithium batteries are widely available online. Some of the most prominent brands are Energizer and Duracell.

Pros:

Lithium batteries are lighter weight compared to their counterparts and work extremely well with devices that are more likely to drain a battery.
They can withstand harsh and variable temperatures.
Many models are rechargeable, which can help you reduce your environmental impact. However, rechargeable batteries are not recommended for smoke detectors.
The lifespan of lithium batteries is about six times higher than alkaline ones.

Cons:

You’ll pay a higher cost up front.

Alkaline batteries

Alkaline batteries are single-use products that can be used in many electronics and devices around the house. It is one of the most common battery types for smoke detectors. Alkaline batteries can be found literally everywhere—online and at local hardware stores, pharmacies, or corner stores.

Pros:

They’re widely available in different types and models.
They’re available at an accessible price and the best option for low-drain devices.
They have a long shelf life.
They’re a great option for ceilings that are easier to reach or in spaces where temperatures don’t fluctuate.

Cons:

They don't last as long as lithium batteries and should be replaced at least every six months.
Alkaline batteries don’t work as well in colder or hotter weather as lithium ones.

Built-in batteries

Smoke detectors with a built-in battery normally have a lithium battery that can last up to 10 years. These types of detectors are recommended because they don’t require battery replacements every year. Once the 10-year mark has passed, you need to replace the entire smoke alarm. Kiddi and First Alert both offer 10-year battery smoke alarms.

9v batteries

9v batteries are easy to identify as they have a rectangular shape and snapping connectors. For years, 9v batteries were the standard battery type for smoke detectors. If you still have one of these units, you can easily buy 9v batteries on Amazon or at major retail stores like Home Depot, Lowe’s, or Walmart.

AA batteries

AA batteries have become the go-to for smoke detectors; they store more power and last longer than 9v batteries. AA batteries are widely available in both alkaline and lithium models. Some of the most well-known brands include Energizer, Duracell, Panasonic, and Amazon Basics. They can be purchased online or at your favorite convenience store, home improvement store, box store, or pharmacy.

123A batteries

Some smoke detector models use 123A batteries, which are lithium batteries known for storing power that can last up to five years. Like the rest of the batteries discussed here, 123A batteries are widely available online and in stores.

It's important to test your smoke detector after you change the batteries to make sure it's functioning properly.

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How Do I Know What Kind of Battery My Smoke Detector Takes?

Smoke detectors have a label near or behind where the battery is located in your device. It shows you the exact type of battery you need, including the voltage and sometimes even what brand you should use. Alternatively, if you still have your smoke alarm detector manual, you can refer to it to buy the right batteries.

Signs Your Smoke Detector Needs To Be Replaced

The life span of a smoke detector is about 10 years. At this age, the sensor of the unit becomes unreliable and it is best to completely replace the unit. Other signs are:

The device color has turned yellow. This is a sign that the product is old.
Your unit makes random chirping noises, even after you have replaced the batteries. Most of the time, when a smoke detector starts chirping, it is time to replace the batteries, and that will make the chirping go away.
The testing button is no longer functional and you are unable to test the device.
It becomes extra sensitive and goes off out of nowhere.
The manufacturer has recalled the product.

Can I Replace the Batteries in My Smoke Detector Myself?

Yes. Replacing your smoke detector’s batteries is a straightforward process. You just need to make sure to have the proper batteries. You can find out which batteries you need when you open the smoke detector, as there’s a label showing the type of batteries you need.

How to Change Batteries in a Smoke Detector

Smoke detector batteries need to be replaced a couple of times a year, unless you have a 10-year battery smoke detector. The good news is, even if you have a hard-wired smoke detector, they have a backup battery in case power goes out. A beeping sound coming from a hard-wired smoke detector is a sign you need to change the battery. Knowing how to change a battery in a smoke detector is an essential skill everyone should learn. Fortunately, it isn’t a complicated process.

Before you get started, have a step ladder or a step stool accessible so you can reach the ceiling. That’s where most smoke detectors are installed. If the smoke detectors are on a very high ceiling, make sure you have a tall enough ladder to do the job.

Step 1: Carefully remove the cover of the smoke detector.

Step 2: Take the old battery out.

Step 3: Identify the type of battery you need (see the label inside the smoke detector) and replace it with a brand new one. Tip: Using a Sharpie, write down the date you’re installing the new battery (on the battery).

Step 4: Put the cover back in place and test the smoke detector. This is one of the most important steps when changing your smoke detectors’ batteries. If the device fails to make a sound during testing, that means it’s time to get a new smoke detector.

How to Stop a Smoke Detector From Chirping Without a Battery

There are times when your smoke detector may start chirping even when you have just replaced the batteries. In that case, there’s a simple fix that can help: Press and hold your unit’s reset button for 15 seconds; this should stop the chirping. If the chirping continues, replace the whole smoke detector unit with a new one.