A reliable smoke alarm is crucial for every home, but do you know when it's time to replace yours? Over time, alarms can wear out, sensors may fail, and outdated models might not provide the level of protection you need.

Here are eight key signs that it's time to upgrade your smoke alarm, as well as why modern wireless alarms are worth considering as replacements.

1. Over 10 Years Old

Most smoke alarms are built to last about 10 years. After that, the internal components begin to wear out, making the device less effective at detecting smoke.

Check the manufacturing date on the back of the alarm. If it's been over a decade, replace it, regardless of how well it functions.

2. Frequent False Alarms

If your smoke alarm regularly goes off while cooking, during steamy showers or for seemingly no reason at all, the sensor may be malfunctioning. While occasional false alarms happen, frequent false alerts are signs that the alarm needs replacing.

Modern wireless alarms, such as the Lifesaver smoke alarm, come with adjustable sensitivity settings to reduce unnecessary alerts while maintaining safety.

3. Persistent Beeping or Chirping

Is your smoke alarm beeping even though you have replaced the battery? Older alarms with sealed batteries chirp when they need replacing, so that could be a warning that the alarm's internal components are failing, or the unit is nearing the end of its life.

Changing to a new alarm should solve this issue. You can consider taking this chance to upgrade to a wireless model with long-lasting lithium batteries, which should ensure more reliability and create less hassle.

4. Yellowing or Discolouration

Over time, smoke alarms can turn yellow due to heat, sunlight, or natural ageing. This discolouration often signals that the plastic and internal components have degraded, reducing the alarm's performance. If your smoke alarm is yellowing or discoloured, it's time for a new one.

5. Is an Ionisation Alarm

If your smoke alarm is an older ionisation model, it may not provide the best protection. Ionisation alarms are prone to false alarms, especially in kitchens, and are less effective at detecting slow, smouldering fires.

Experts now recommend photoelectric alarms, which are better at detecting these fires. Wireless smoke alarms (including the Lifesaver smoke alarms) often use photoelectric technology, so upgrading to one will improve your home's safety.

6. Does Not Respond to Testing

Regularly testing your smoke alarm is essential to ensure it's working correctly. Smoke alarms that don't respond when tested are no longer reliable and should be swapped out for a new model immediately. If your alarm fails to sound during a test, even after checking the battery, it's time for a replacement.

7. Missing a Safety Certification Label

All smoke alarms should have a certification label indicating they meet safety standards. If your alarm is missing this label, it could mean it's not compliant with modern regulations or safety protocols. Non-certified alarms may not perform effectively, so replacing them with certified models such as Lifesaver wireless alarms is highly recommended.

8. Hardwired and Exhibiting Faulty Wiring

If you have a hardwired smoke alarm that is consistently malfunctioning, the issue could be the wiring rather than the alarm itself. Faulty wiring can cause alarms to stop working or fail to connect with other units in the system.

Wireless smoke alarms offer a great alternative – they're easy to install, don't require wiring, and can communicate with other alarms in the home for full coverage.

Why Upgrade to Wireless Smoke Alarms?

If you've noticed any of the above signs, it might be also the perfect opportunity to upgrade to a wireless model. Wireless smoke alarms offer a variety of benefits, making them an excellent choice for modern homes:

  • Effortless installation – No complex wiring is required, making setup quick and easy. Whether you're renovating or installing in a new space, wireless alarms are suitable for any home.
  • Customisable placement – With no need for wiring, wireless alarms can be installed anywhere in your home, ensuring optimal coverage in every area.
  • Interconnected protection – Wireless alarms communicate with each other, so when one detects smoke, all connected alarms sound simultaneously. This provides whole-home coverage, which is especially important for larger or multi-storey properties.
  • Remote alerts – Many wireless models integrate with smart home systems, allowing you to receive notifications on your phone when an alarm is triggered, even if you're not at home.
  • Battery-powered reliability – Wireless smoke alarms typically come with long-lasting lithium batteries, reducing the need for frequent replacements and ensuring protection even during power outages.
  • Peace of mind – Wireless alarms are designed to be low-maintenance, providing long-term protection without the constant need for checks or updates, giving you added confidence in your home's safety.

Don't Wait – Ensure Your Smoke Alarms Are Up to Date

While it's easy to overlook, your smoke alarm is crucial in safeguarding your home. By staying alert to these signs, you ensure your home remains safe and secure. Don't wait until it's too late – a quick check and timely replacement could make all the difference.