What is the recommended action if a smoke detector is chirping intermittently?

When a smoke detector is chirping intermittently, it typically signifies that the battery is low and needs to be replaced. This chirping serves as a vital alert to indicate that the device may not function properly if the battery is not replaced promptly. By replacing the battery immediately, you ensure that the smoke detector remains operational and can effectively detect smoke and alert occupants in case of a fire.

While cleaning the detector is an important maintenance task, it does not directly address the low battery issue indicated by the chirping. Ignoring the problem can lead to a non-functional smoke detector, potentially putting lives at risk. Replacing the entire unit may be unnecessary if the only issue is the battery; however, if the detector is old or has other malfunctions, a replacement might eventually be needed. Therefore, replacing the battery is the most appropriate and immediate action in this scenario.