First Alert Smoke Alarm

A First Alert smoke alarm is one of the most important safety devices you can install in your home. Smoke alarms provide an early warning during a fire, giving you and your loved ones precious time to escape. Since most fire-related deaths are caused by smoke inhalation rather than flames, having properly installed and functioning smoke alarms can make the difference between life and death. First Alert is a trusted brand known for producing reliable, innovative alarms that help protect families and provide peace of mind.

First Alert Hardwired Smoke Alarm

A First Alert hardwired smoke alarm connects directly to your home's electrical system for continuous power, with most models also featuring a backup battery for added reliability. Hardwired smoke alarms are often recommended because they provide uninterrupted protection and can be interconnected—meaning when one alarm detects smoke, all smoke alarms in the home sound simultaneously. This ensures everyone in the house is alerted quickly, even if the smoke is far from their location. First Alert hardwired smoke alarms combine dependable performance with advanced safety features, making them ideal for whole-home coverage.

First Alert Battery Operated Smoke Alarm

For homes that don't have wiring in place, a First Alert battery smoke alarm offers flexible installation and reliable protection. Battery-operated detectors are easy to install anywhere in the home, making them a great option for older houses or areas where hardwiring isn't practical. Many modern First Alert battery operated smoke alarms use long-life lithium batteries that provide up to 10 years of continuous power, reducing the need for frequent battery changes. These smoke alarms ensure that every household can benefit from essential smoke detection, regardless of wiring availability.

Frequently Asked Questions About First Alert Smoke Alarms

Why is my First Alert smoke alarm beeping?

A First Alert smoke alarm beeping is usually a signal that the alarm needs attention. The type of chirp or beep pattern can tell you what's wrong:

Single Chirp Every 30–60 Seconds: This often means the battery is low and needs to be replaced. For models with 10-year sealed batteries, the entire alarm will need to be replaced once it reaches end of life.
Three Beeps, Pause, Three Beeps (Repeated): This indicates smoke has been detected. You should check for signs of fire or smoke immediately and follow your home’s fire safety plan.
Four Beeps, Pause, Four Beeps (Repeated): If you have a combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarm, this pattern means carbon monoxide has been detected, and you should move to fresh air right away and call emergency services.
Five Chirps Every Minute: This is often an "end-of-life" signal, letting you know the alarm itself has expired and must be replaced.

Other possible causes include dust buildup, temperature extremes (too hot or too cold), or the alarm not being properly mounted. Regular cleaning and testing of your First Alert smoke alarm will help prevent nuisance chirps.

Why is my First Alert smoke alarm chirping every minute?

If your alarm uses replaceable batteries, a chirp every 60 seconds usually means the battery power is running low. Replacing the battery should stop the chirping. It could also be an End of Life Warning – Many First Alert smoke alarms are designed to chirp every minute when they’ve reached the end of their useful life (typically 8–10 years). If your model has a sealed 10-year battery, the entire unit must be replaced.

First Alert smoke alarm 3 beeeps then stops?

Three beeps, pause, then three beeps again is the standard smoke alarm pattern. This means the alarm detected smoke or something that triggered the sensor. Even if it stopped, you should: Look for visible smoke or signs of fire and ventilate the area if it was caused by cooking smoke, steam, or dust. If no fire is present, press the silence/test button to reset the alarm.

How do i change my First Alert smoke alarm battery?

Remove the Alarm from Its Mounting Bracket
- Twist or slide the alarm from the ceiling or wall bracket to access the back.
Open the Battery Compartment
- Most First Alert smoke alarms have a small drawer or compartment on the back or side. Press the tab or slide it open.
Take Out the Old Battery
- Carefully remove the old battery. Check the compartment for any corrosion or dust.
Insert the New Battery
- Use the correct type (most models require a 9-volt, though some use AA or long-life lithium).
- Match the + and – ends of the battery with the markings inside the compartment.
Close the Compartment and Re-Attach the Alarm
- Ensure the battery drawer clicks shut completely—some alarms won’t mount or stop chirping if it’s not closed all the way.
- Reattach the alarm to its bracket.
Test the Alarm
- Press and hold the Test button until you hear a loud beep pattern. This confirms the new battery is installed correctly.

First Alert smoke alarm blinking red light?

Typically found on battery operated smoke alarms, this usually means the alarm is working properly and actively monitoring for smoke. It's a normal "power on" indicator.

First Alert smoke alarm blinking green light?

A steady or blinking green light typically indicates that the alarm is receiving AC (electrical) power. On some models, the green light will blink every 30 seconds to show the alarm is powered and working properly. A solid green light may also indicate normal operation.