What should be done with a smoke detector that has reached the end of its life cycle?

A smoke detector that has reached the end of its life cycle must be disposed of and replaced with a new unit to ensure continued safety and functionality. Smoke detectors are crucial for early fire detection, and their components degrade over time due to dust, environmental factors, and chemical wear. Once a detector is beyond its specified lifespan, its reliability cannot be guaranteed, potentially putting lives at risk.

The manufacturer typically provides a recommended lifespan for smoke detectors, usually around 10 years. After this period, even if the device appears to be functioning normally, it may not detect smoke as effectively as a new unit would. Therefore, replacing the old detector with a new one helps maintain the integrity of your fire safety system.

Continuing to use an outdated smoke detector might seem practical, but it disregards safety protocols and could lead to critical failures in emergency situations. Disassembling the unit for maintenance isn't advisable either, as it can compromise the device's functionality and safety. Similarly, storing an outdated detector for future use poses an unnecessary risk and does not address the need for reliable detection in the present. Therefore, the proper action is to dispose of it and replace it with a new one.