[Elecraft] Smoke detectors

[Bob N7WY]

Two comments –

The idea behind the 10 year life batteries in sealed detectors is that the battery and the sensor element both need to be retired at the 10 year point.  It is not a good idea to put new batteries in any detector at around the 10 year point as the sensor needs replacement, too.

We had 20 year old Firex smoke detectors.  Kidde acquired Firex and now makes replacements with 10 year lifetimes.  They are not plug and play for 2 reasons.  The Firex pigtail wired into the house does not mate with the Kidde detectors, and the plastic flange that mates to the electrical box is not compatible, either.  Kidde sells a plug adapter that IMO is too bulky behind their detector to readily fit into the electrical box.  So, plan to install a new mounting flange, remove the prior pigtail and install a new one.

Of course you may find obstacles I did not and this only applies to the brands discussed.

Bob R – N7WY