Is the best way to check a smoke detector by lighting a match underneath it and blowing it out?

Question

I have my doubt about just pressing the test button. The alarm may sound , but who knows if it actually detects the smoke to go off? Any firefighters know the best way to check a detector to see if it actually "detects" the smoke?

Answer 1

They have cans of "fake" smoke that they use to test smoke detectors. It comes in an aerosol can. Try home depot or Lowes.
- Company's that come & test them in schools use it.

Answer 2

Smoke Detectors Lowes

Answer 3

When you push the test button you are checking the ciurcuts and the battery. There is a product called smoke test. It is a can of fake smoke that doesn't leave a residue in the detector or on the walls. Real smoke works but will leave a residue in the detector.

Answer 4

You should avoid testing your smoke detectors with smoke. Repeatedly doing this may cause them to fail. The test button test all the circuitry and mechanisms necessary for reliability, not just the siren or horn. Smoke detectors should be replaced every 10 years.

Answer 5

Buy a can of "canned smoke." It is specially made to test smoke detectors. One can will last for years. I have to test detectors after installing them and I quit smoking a while back.

http://testproducts.com/safecart/product_info.php/cPath/29/products_id/32?osCsid=1b9b2a771d2c3f995ff5e09ecebc1e02

Answer 6

probably get an incense stick and light it under the detector because the match night not create enough smoke

Answer 7

I'll send my wife round to cook - guaranteed to set the alarm off.

Answer 8

We tend to use smoke check on buildings to check. Here is link to buy some.


http://testproducts.com/safecart/index.php/cPath/29/?source=Overture&OVRAW=can%20smoke&OVKEY=can%20smoke&OVMTC=standard&OVADID=365934521&OVKWID=354597021

Answer 9

It might be easier to use a candle