Expert: Dave Neuweiler - 12/7/2005

Question
Hi Dave-
I have 9 interconnected smoke detectors that are AC wired with battery backup.  Last evening they all went off simultanoeusly (which is what they're supposed to do obviously).  The only glitch was: no fire!  While they were alarming I tried to reset each via the reset button, but to no avail -they kept on beeping.  Ultimately I had to disconnect all 9!

Now, with fresh batteries, each time I hook one up again it goes back into alarm mode.  Any ideas of what's going on?  Presently I have them all disconnected with batts out.

Thanks
John

Answer
Hello John, and thanks for your question.

Current codes do require that when one smoke detector sounds, all detectors sounds. I am puzzled by two things you describe:

1. The inability to reset the detectors with the reset switch.

2. Going into alarm when reconnecting to the circuit.

A couple of questions... 9 smoke detectors is a lot for a residential system (it is a residence, right?). Are they connected to a fire panel or a a combination security/fire panel? If so, we may need to take a look in that direction.

Second, send me the make and model numbers from one of the detectors so I can tell what we're looking at...

In the meantime, you might consider grabbing one or two battery-operated smoke detectors from any department or home improvement store, and using them for temporary protection while you sort out the other issues...

Sorry I can't help straightaway, but send my the information, and we'll see what we can do.

Best Regards,

Dave