Smoke alarm help
Troubleshooting your smoke alarms
Start with the simple checks below, then follow the guidance for your alarm brand. Never disconnect or remove an alarm to silence a recurring problem.
If an alarm is sounding now
- Check carefully for smoke or fire. If there is any sign of fire, leave immediately and call 000.
- Identify the triggering alarm. It will commonly show a rapidly flashing red indicator.
- If there is no fire, use the hush or silence function according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Ventilate steam or cooking fumes and keep people clear of the alarm while it resets.
Universal checks
Test the alarm
Press and hold the test button. Confirm that interconnected alarms sound together.
Clean the vents
Vacuum gently with a soft brush attachment. Dust and insects are common causes of false alarms.
Check the environment
Look for steam, humidity, cooking fumes, strong airflow or recent insect activity.
Check age and lights
Review the manufacture date and note the indicator-light pattern or chirp interval.
Brand guidance
Brooks
Identify the initiating alarm by its indicator light. Test the system, gently vacuum the alarm and check for moisture or insect activity. Use only compatible Brooks accessories and alarms within an interconnected system.
PSA
Check the green power indicator on 240V models, then test and clean the alarm. If an interconnected alarm will not respond, check that all devices and wireless bases are compatible PSA models.
Trader
Test the triggering alarm and inspect for dust, insects, steam or cooking fumes. A persistent fault or end-of-life warning generally requires replacement of the complete sealed alarm.
Clipsal
Check the power indicator on hardwired alarms and test interconnection. Wireless bases and alarms must be paired correctly and be compatible with the existing Clipsal system.
Emerald
For EP-RANG-10 and similar sealed-battery alarms, a chirp every 32–60 seconds may indicate a fault or end-of-life warning. Test, vacuum gently and replace the complete alarm if the warning continues.
RED
Check the initiating alarm, power light and interconnection. Clean gently and confirm all alarms and modules are compatible RED products. Persistent fault indications should be assessed or replaced.
When to replace an alarm
- It is 10 years old or has reached its stated expiry date.
- It does not sound during a test.
- It has been painted, damaged, contaminated or water affected.
- A fault or end-of-life warning continues after cleaning and resetting.
Compatibility varies by model. Do not mix brands or product families unless the manufacturer confirms compatibility. If there is smoke or fire, evacuate and call 000.