When should a smoke detector be replaced?

Replacing a smoke detector if it is over 10 years old or fails testing is crucial for maintaining optimal safety. Smoke detectors have a limited lifespan, typically around a decade, after which their sensitivity to smoke can diminish significantly, making them less effective in detecting a fire. Regular testing is essential to ensure that the device functions correctly; if a smoke detector fails a test, it indicates that the unit may not respond to smoke as needed, thus requiring immediate replacement. This practice aligns with fire safety regulations and recommendations from safety organizations, highlighting the importance of ensuring that smoke detectors are reliable for protecting occupants in case of a fire emergency.