Smoke alarm test in Exeter
Professional smoke alarm test services in Exeter and surrounding areas. Local, reliable handyman - no job too small.
Price Guide
£60
Typical Duration
15-20 mins
Location
Exeter, Devon
Proper smoke alarm testing with button test and real smoke aerosol. All alarms checked, batteries tested, written record provided. Peace of mind they'll work when it matters.
When Did You Last Actually Test Yours?
Be honest: when did you last test your smoke alarms? And I don't mean pressing the button - when did you last check they actually detect smoke?
Most people never do. The button test just checks the speaker works. It doesn't tell you if the sensor - the bit that detects smoke - is actually functioning.
In Exeter's older houses especially, you need to know your alarms work.
💡 Pro tip: Smoke alarms over 10 years old should be replaced regardless of whether they pass the button test. The sensors deteriorate with age.
Proper Testing vs Button Test
| ✅ Full Smoke Test | ❌ Just The Button |
|---|---|
| Checks actual smoke sensor works | Only tests speaker/circuit |
| Uses aerosol smoke | Doesn't test detection |
| Confirms proper sensitivity | Can't tell if sensor's failed |
| Written record provided | Just your memory |
What You Get
🔧 The Full Test
| Stage | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Visual Check | Look for damage, age, positioning |
| Button Test | Standard test button on each alarm |
| Smoke Test | Aerosol smoke test to check sensor |
| Battery Test | Check all batteries, replace if needed |
| Record | Written note of all tests and results |
📦 You're Left With
- Confidence your alarms actually work
- Fresh batteries in all alarms
- Written record with dates
- Advice on any that need replacing
Pricing Guide
| Situation | Estimated Time | You'll Pay |
|---|---|---|
| 1-3 alarms tested | 15-20 mins | £60 |
| 4-6 alarms tested | 30 mins | £60 |
| 7+ alarms (larger property) | 45 mins-1 hr | £60 |
Based on £60 minimum callout. Batteries extra if needed (I carry stock).
Perfect For Your Situation If...
✅ Landlord checks - need proof alarms are maintained
✅ New house - want to verify previous owner's alarms work
✅ Old alarms - not sure if they're still reliable
✅ Peace of mind - just want to know your family's protected
Why Choose Us for Smoke alarm test in Exeter?
Proper smoke test with aerosol
All batteries checked and replaced if needed
Written record of test for landlords
Peace of mind they actually work
What to Expect
Step 1: Visual & Button
I check each alarm's condition and age, then do the standard button test. This tells me the circuit and speaker work.
Step 2: Real Smoke Test
Using smoke detector test aerosol, I test each alarm actually detects smoke. This is the important bit - proves the sensor works.
Step 3: Battery Check
Test the battery in each one. If any are low or failing, I'll replace them (I carry the common types).
Step 4: Report & Advice
I provide a written record of what was tested and the results. If anything needs replacing, I'll tell you.
🔧 DIY Tips
You should test your alarms monthly - here's how to do it properly:
🔧 Monthly button test (you can do this)
- Press and hold the test button on each alarm
- Should beep loudly within a few seconds
- If weak or no sound, battery's probably low
- If no sound at all, alarm may have failed
📝 What to check
- Date on the alarm (should be replaced after 10 years)
- Battery type and condition
- Position (should be on ceiling or high on wall)
- Clear of obstruction (nothing covering the sensor)
⚠️ Common mistakes
- Only testing one alarm in the house
- Not testing all interconnected alarms communicate
- Ignoring weak beeps (usually dying battery)
- Assuming button test means sensor works
💡 Pro trick: Write the installation date on the alarm with a marker. Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years maximum, regardless of whether they still beep.
Rather leave it to a pro? No problem - that's what I'm here for. Give me a call.
Good to Know
🏠 Landlords: Regular testing is part of your legal duty. Keep records of when alarms were tested and by whom. I can provide written records you can keep with your safety documents.
Multiple properties? I can set up a schedule to test all your rentals regularly. Easier than trying to remember which ones are due.
Failed alarms? If an alarm fails testing and needs replacing, I can supply and fit new ones. Modern interconnected mains-powered alarms are much better than the old battery ones.
Old house with hardwired alarms? I can still test them, but if they're really old (15+ years), worth considering upgrading to modern ones with better sensors and backup batteries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between pressing the button and a proper smoke test?
The button just tests the circuit and speaker. A proper smoke test uses aerosol smoke to check the actual sensor works - the bit that matters in a real fire. Both are important but the smoke test is the real proof.
How often should smoke alarms be tested?
Button test monthly is recommended (you can do that yourself). Full smoke test annually or when you move house. Landlords need proof of regular testing - I can provide written records.
Do you provide a certificate for landlords?
I provide a written record of testing with dates, locations, and results. Not a formal certificate (that needs a qualified electrician for some properties) but it's proof you're maintaining them properly.
What if one fails the test?
If it's just a flat battery I'll replace it there and then. If the alarm itself has failed, I'll advise whether it needs replacing. Alarms over 10 years old should be replaced anyway.
Can you test interconnected alarms?
Yes - I'll check they're all communicating properly. If one goes off, they should all go off. That's really important in bigger houses where you might not hear an alarm from the other end.
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