SMOKE ALARMS SAVE LIVES - BUT ONLY IF THEY WORK
The 4 most common myths around Smoke Alarms in Perth.
❌ If it still beeps when I press the button, it’s working fine.
❌ I only need one smoke alarm in the house.
❌ Smoke alarms last forever
❌ I only need alarms in the bedrooms.
Most WA homeowners we meet are shocked to learn their smoke alarms are either non-compliant, expired, or badly installed.
MOST AWARDED AND RECOMMENDED PERTH ELECTRICIAN
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SMOKE ALARMS IN PERTH
THE PARTS YOU NEED TO KNOW
✅ TEST/HUSH BUTTON
Press monthly to make sure your alarm’s working.
If there’s no sound, it needs attention — fast.
✅ EXPIRY DATE / MANUFACTURE STICKER
Flip it over. If it’s over 10 years old, it’s expired — no questions asked.
WA law requires replacement.
✅ BATTERY BACKUP
Even hardwired alarms have a battery.
Replace 9V batteries yearly
THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SMOKE ALARMS in PERTH
PERTH SMOKE ALARM SAFETY CHECKLIST
🔍 Is it less than 10 years old?
✔️ Look for the manufacture date on the back of the alarm.
❌ If it’s 10+ years old — it must be replaced.
👉 Smoke alarms expire after 10 years – it’s the law.
🏠 SMOKE ALARM AT HOME TESTING
REPLACE THE BATTERY
If your alarm uses a 9V battery, it should be replaced once a year.
💡 Or make the switch to a 10-year lithium model for less hassle.
PRESS THE TEST BUTTON
This checks the sounder and power — a good start, but not the full story.
🔊 No beep? Replace the alarm.
USE SMOKE SPRAY FOR A REAL TEST
Artificial smoke lets you test the actual sensor, not just the beep.
✅ Alarm sounds = all clear
❌ No sound? The sensor could be faulty or expired.
CHECK THE EXPIRY DATE
Smoke alarms expire 10 years from the date of manufacture, not from install.
🕒 Flip the unit and check the sticker. If it’s out of date, it must be replaced — it's WA law.
🏠 SMOKE ALARM INSTALLATION IN DEAD SPACE
Is it installed on or near the ceiling?
✔️ Smoke rises — always install on or near the ceiling for fastest detection.
Is it at least 300mm from the corner where the wall and ceiling meet?
❌ Too close = risk of dead air pooling
✔️ 300–500mm from walls and corners is the safe zone
Is it clear of dead air space like slopes, beams or recesses?
✔️ Follow the DFES dead air zone diagram
✔️ Avoid fitting alarms in the peak of raked ceilings, or directly next to rafters
FAQS: SMOKE ALARMS INSTALLS IN PERTH
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Yes, use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush to clean dust and cobwebs.
Spray insect repellent on a cloth and gently wipe around the smoke alarm to keep insects out. Do not spray inside the smoke alarm.
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Mains-powered alarms generally use a 9V alkaline battery as back-up. Check with the manufacturer if you're unsure of the battery type.
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If your smoke alarm beeps or chirps, it needs maintenance or replacement. Don’t ignore it.
Contaminated detection chamber
Dust and cobwebs can make smoke alarms beep by blocking sensors or affecting the battery connections.
Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush to clean dust and cobwebs.
10-year lithium battery alarm models
If the alarm is beeping about once a minute with the red light flashing, the lithium battery is depleted and the smoke alarm needs to be replaced.
9-volt alkaline battery alarm models
Battery power is low and replacement is necessary when the red light flashes and the smoke alarm beeps at the same time, about once a minute.
When you replace the battery, press the test button to make sure the alarm works.
Replace the battery once a year for best results.
Mains powered models with a 10-year lithium rechargeable back-up battery
If the alarm beeps every 40 to 60 seconds and the indicator light flashes, the battery back-up is low.
If the green light is also off, it means the alarm is not receiving mains power. First, check and reset the circuit breaker in your home, then check your smoke alarm again. If you’re unsure, contact a licensed electrician.
The alarm may beep after a power outage if the battery is low. Once power is restored, the beeping should stop within 2 hours as the battery recharges. If the beeping continues after 2 hours with the green light on, contact the smoke alarm manufacturer for assistance.
Mains powered models with a 9-volt alkaline back-up battery
Battery replacement is necessary when the smoke alarm beeps and red light flashes at the same time every 40 to 60 seconds. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for the right battery type and use high-quality, long-lasting batteries.
When to replace smoke alarms
If your smoke alarm continues to beep after changing the battery and cleaning it with a vacuum and soft brush, it’s likely faulty or at the end of its life and needs to be replaced.
All smoke alarms and heat alarms must be replaced every 10 years.
Remember, mains powered smoke alarms and heat alarms must be installed and removed by a licensed electrician.
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There are smoke alarms for people who are deaf or hard of hearing with a flashing light and a vibrating pad that can be placed under the pillow. These activate when the smoke alarm sounds and can be interconnected with standard smoke alarms in different locations within your home. If one of the alarms senses smoke, all alarms will sound, the light will flash and the pad will vibrate.
For more information contact smoke alarm manufacturers.
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New smoke alarm regulations came into place if your home has:
Newly built since 1 July 1997.
Undergone significant renovations since 1 July 1997.
Changed ownership since 1 October 2009.
Been rented or hired since 1 October 2009.
Or if you smoke alarm falls under old regulation and has become expired, faulty or you are going to sell or rent your property.
Here’s WHY HOME & BUSINESS OWNERS CHOOSE US!
Dedicated Specialist in your corner - never get passed around again
Transparent Pricing - all‑inclusive quotes, zero hidden fees
Right‑First‑Time workmanship - cut call‑outs by up to 95%
24/7 Visibility - real‑time updates on every job
Full Compliance Reporting - instant RCD, Smoke Alarm and Safety Certificates
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
FROM CONFUSION TO COMPLIANCE
From guessing expiry dates to actual peace of mind
From non-compliant installation to expert placed detection systems
From Silent alarms to working protection
Response Electricians is built on 20 years of Perth-based electrical expertise, certified compliance know-how, and a laser focus on safety and clarity. We deliver smoke alarm solutions that meet WA law — and give you peace of mind knowing your home (and family) is protected.
