Changing batteries in a malfunctioning smoke detector

We agree with fire safety experts that it is prudent to replace smoke alarm batteries twice a year.
Sometimes, however, there are telltale signs that a smoke alarm battery needs to be replaced as soon as possible. "Chirping" or giving out short "beeps" indicates it needs new batteries.
Step one: Remove the detector from the base.
This can usually be accomplished by simply twisting counterclockwise but with some models, you will need a screwdriver to pop open a plastic.
Step 2: Remove the old batteries and install new ones.
After the detector is dismounted, simply remove the old batteries and wait 20 seconds to ensure a proper power-down sequence. Then install the new batteries, ensuring that the negative and positive connections match the labels in the smoke detector.
Step 3: Test the smoke alarm.
You don't want to reinstall the smoke detector on its base until you first know that the batteries work. Fortunately, there is a test button you can find and press for a few seconds.
If there are no sounds, you can check battery connections and/or try different batteries. If you went through all of these steps, you need to replace your smoke detector.
Only when you know the batteries work can you reinstall the smoke detector on its base.
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