Expert: George Maxwell - 2/21/2008

Question
Are there any household cleaning chemicals that would cause the smoke detector to continuously chirp like the battery is low? What about pesticides or fertilizers? If so, is there a list of them that I can get from you or a site that would give me this information?

Answer
Hi, and thanks for your question.

No, there are no chemicals that will do this: a smoke detector works by sensing the physical presence of smoke particles, not their chemical makeup. If vapors from cleaning fluids do enter the detector, they will cause is to activate in the normal manner.

The "chirp" is a separate circuit from the main sensor, so the problem you are having is due to either a continually low battery, or to a faulty detector.

Check that you are using the recommended batteries - although any 9v battery will fit in the holder, only some types can supply a continuous current over a long time period.

If it still doesn't work, take the detector back to the dealer or, failing that, your local fire station. Be careful not to tamper with or damage the inside of the smoke detector, as it contains a tiny amount of radioactive material sealed in the centre.

Thank you again for your question.