How do I change a smoke alarm? It depends on the alarm. A plug-in battery alarm you can swap yourself. A hardwired one needs a licensed electrician.
Free, two minutes: Is your home smoke alarm ready? 60-second check.
First, what kind of alarm is it?
Twist the alarm off its base (most turn anticlockwise). If wires run into it, it is hardwired (240 volt). If it only has a battery, check the label: a 10-year sealed battery alarm says so on the back. Older alarms take a 9 volt battery you can change.
Changing a battery alarm
9 volt battery alarm: change the battery once a year, or as soon as it chirps. Press the test button after.
10-year sealed battery alarm: you do not change the battery. When it reaches 10 years (the date is on the back) or keeps chirping, replace the whole alarm with a new photoelectric one.
Hardwired alarms: call a licensed electrician
In Queensland, only a licensed electrician may replace a hardwired smoke alarm. Do not unplug or rewire it yourself.
The Queensland rule from 1 January 2027
Every Queensland home needs photoelectric smoke alarms, under 10 years old, hardwired or with a 10-year sealed battery, interconnected so one sets off them all, in every bedroom, in the hallways joining bedrooms to the rest of the home, and on every storey. Rentals and homes sold already need this.
Need it done? Send photos of the job, no account needed, or call 0458 381 559. Linc Point arranges licensed local trades from Bribie Island to Helensvale, including Logan, Ipswich and Redlands.
Quick answers
How often should I replace a smoke alarm?
Every 10 years, or sooner if it fails the test button. The manufacture date is printed on the back.
Why is my smoke alarm chirping?
Usually a low battery. A 9 volt battery alarm needs a new battery; a 10-year sealed alarm that chirps needs replacing.
Can I install a hardwired smoke alarm myself?
No. In Queensland hardwired alarms are installed and replaced by a licensed electrician.
Sources and further reading
General information only, shared from the sources below. It is not professional advice for your property. If something looks unsafe, stop and call a licensed professional, or 000 in an emergency.
- Queensland Government Smoke alarms (opens in a new tab)The smoke alarm law, including the 1 January 2027 deadline for every home.
- Electrical Safety Office Electrical safety in Queensland (opens in a new tab)Electrical safety at home, and why electrical work is a job for a licensed electrician.
