Check the age of your alarms
Smoke alarms need ongoing attention. CFA advises replacing smoke alarms every ten years. Check the information supplied with the alarm and its marked date, and arrange help if you cannot safely access it. Do not assume that an alarm is still suitable simply because it makes a sound when tested.
Keep up with testing and maintenance
Follow the manufacturer's testing and cleaning instructions and CFA's current maintenance guidance. Report faults and arrange replacement where required. Do not disconnect an alarm to deal with repeated unwanted activations; ask for help finding the cause and an appropriate solution. If there is smoke or a fire, leave the property and call 000.
Discuss replacement and interconnection
CFA explains that interconnected alarms are linked, so that when one sounds the others sound too. That helps in larger homes and where people sleep away from living areas. The appropriate products and installation depend on your property. A licensed electrician should handle hardwired replacement or alterations. Tell us what type of alarms you have, their approximate age and whether they are already interconnected; do not open wiring enclosures to find out.
Check the requirements for your property
Recommendations and legal requirements are not interchangeable. Requirements can depend on the building and the type of work, and rental properties have additional obligations. Check the current official guidance for your circumstances rather than treating one general article as a compliance assessment. Voltra Electrical can discuss smoke alarm installation and replacement in Melbourne and help identify the next steps for your home.