How to Fix a Smoke Alarm

Check the battery in your smoke alarm twice a year. Continuous beeping or failure to detect smoke can be caused by a dead or dying battery. Most alarms have a "Test" button to press to make sure the device will sound. If the device does not sound, remove the cover by twisting it counterclockwise and replace the battery. Test the detector again.

Check the wire connections. Although rare, the wire connections within a smoke alarm can become loose. Remove the cover by twisting it counterclockwise. Remove the battery and look at the wire connections within the detector. Tighten the wires with small pliers if necessary. If your detector wires into your home, turn off the power to the detector through your home's circuit breaker before working with the wiring.

Clean the smoke alarm. Dust and dirt can become trapped in a smoke alarm and cause it to malfunction. While you have the cover off and the battery out, use a can of compressed air and spray inside the unit to remove any debris. Replace the battery and cover and test the unit to make sure it is functioning properly.

Replace the alarm if necessary. If you have tried the previous steps and the detector is still malfunctioning, it may be necessary to replace the unit. Smoke detectors can be purchased at a hardware store and are typically inexpensive.