Should I replace my own alarms?

Honest answer: some alarm swaps are an easy do-it-yourself job, and some are worth hiring a pro. The main deciding factor is what kind of system you have.

DIY-friendly

Replacing a single standalone battery alarm with the same type is a five-minute job if you’re comfortable getting on a ladder and using a screwdriver. Twist off the old one, mount the new bracket, twist on the new alarm, done. If that describes your whole setup, you may not need us at all, and we will happily say so. Of course, if you’re not comfortable doing this, we are more than happy to help.

When to call a pro

Hardwired and interconnected systems are a different story. They involve wiring, matching units that will talk to each other, getting the count and placement right to code, and often high or vaulted ceilings. Mixing incompatible alarms is a common DIY mistake that leaves a system that does not properly interconnect. This can cause false alarms, or worse, a system that doesn’t alert when there’s a fire. Here is how to tell which you have.

The hidden risk of mixing old and new

Even with battery units, replacing only the alarm that failed leaves the rest of an aging set about to fail too. That is why we usually recommend replacing as a set, so everything is on the same clock. Smoke alarms are designed to expire after 10 years. Here is more on lifespan.

Not sure if this is a DIY job? Tell us what you have and we will give you a straight answer, with the price in writing if it is a job for us.

Request a quote or see our pricing.

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