Smoke detectors are important devices that can guarantee your safety in the event of a fire. However, they can be annoying if they don't work well or if they activate when you do harmless activities, such as cooking. Depending on the unit you have installed, the push of a button may be enough to deactivate the fire alarm, or more complicated actions may be required.
Steps
Method 1 of 4: Turn off a Battery Operated Smoke Detector
Step 1. Find the activated device
Search the house for the fire unit that went off. In addition to the sound, this state is usually indicated by a rapidly flashing red light on the front of the unit. Since the alarm is independent, it shouldn't have triggered any other devices so you only have to worry about that.
Step 2. Reset the alarm
On more modern battery models you can do this by holding a button on the front of the device for about 15 seconds. If you have an older model you may need to unscrew it from the wall or ceiling to be able to hold down a button on the back.
Step 3. Replace or remove the batteries if the alarm does not reset
If the alarm continues to sound even after reset, the batteries may be defective. Unscrew the device from the wall or ceiling and replace the batteries, then reset it. If it remains active, remove the batteries completely.
If the detector emits a repeated sound at long intervals, instead of the classic rapid alarm, it is the signal that the batteries are running low
Step 4. Replace the failing detectors
If after a few days the alarm continues to go off as soon as you insert the batteries, you should buy a new device. You can find battery operated smoke detectors in many supermarkets and home improvement stores. Depending on the quality of the model, prices range from 10 to 50 euros.
Ask your local fire department if they offer free or discounted smoke detectors
Method 2 of 4: Turn off an Alarm Connected to the Electrical System
Step 1. Reset each alarm
Since the smoke detectors connected to the electrical system are connected to each other, when one is activated the others do the same. To deactivate them, you have to reset them individually by holding down the dedicated button located on the front, side or back of each unit. For some models you have to unscrew the unit and detach it from the wall to reach the button.
- If only one of the detectors is active, it can be a sign of malfunction or that you need to replace the backup batteries.
- If your fire extinguishing system is controlled by a numeric keypad, consult the user manual for the deactivation code.
Step 2. Unplug the switch if the reset was not successful
If the detectors are controlled by a specific switch, you will only need to unplug that. If not, unplug any switches that correspond to the parts of the house where there are detectors.
- The electrical panel is usually located in the garage, basement or storage room.
- If you need to turn off the power to entire rooms, unplug all appliances in that area so you don't risk a short circuit.
Step 3. Disconnect all detectors
If the alarms are still active, you may need to disconnect them completely. To deactivate a unit, rotate it counterclockwise and detach it from the wall. Remove the cable that connects it to the home system and, if necessary, remove the spare batteries. Repeat for each unit.
Step 4. If necessary, call the building administrator or the fire department
If you are trying to disable the fire extinguishing system connected to the electrical system of a commercial building, condominium or dormitory, you probably won't be able to do it yourself. In these cases, call your local fire department or administrator and ask for their help to disable the system.
While almost all alarms can be silenced remotely, some buildings require a physical reset in person
Step 5. Replace or repair damaged detectors
If the alarms go off even when there is no flame, you may need to replace a unit or repair the cables connecting them. Individual devices, which you can buy in supermarkets or home improvement stores, usually cost between 10 and 50 euros. If the new units are also not working properly, you should hire an electrician to check the electrical system.
Method 3 of 4: Temporarily Deactivate a Smoke Detector
Step 1. Press the button to change the device, if the model is recent
In recent years, many companies have equipped their alarms with buttons to temporarily disable them. This way you can cook, smoke, or perform other activities that would normally trigger them. Look for a button with no indication or with "Silence", "Mute" or similar on it.
- Many buttons for changing the alarm are combined with the one for testing.
- Many buttons to mute the alarm deactivate it for 15-20 minutes.
Step 2. Eliminate the alarm's power source to disable it entirely
If your detector doesn't have a button to mute it, or if you'd rather turn it off for a longer time, try removing the power source. Rotate it counterclockwise, then pull it away from the wall-mounted base. If it is connected to the electrical system, unplug the cable and remove the spare batteries. If it's a standalone unit, just take out the batteries.
In some alarms the batteries can be hidden behind a snap panel or fixed with screws
Step 3. If necessary, consult the user manual
All smoke detectors are different from each other and many are designed so that they cannot be turned off easily or by mistake. If you can't find your unit's power button or power source, look for your specific model information in the manual. If you no longer have a copy of the manual, you can often find a digital version on the manufacturer's website.
Method 4 of 4: Disable Commercial Fire Alarms
Step 1. Find the alarm control panel
Fire systems for large commercial buildings are usually controlled by a main panel, which is often located in the fuse or maintenance room.
Step 2. Log in to the control panel
If the panel is covered by a protective box you will first need to find the key to the box. Once you have access to the controls you may need to enter a verification code or a small key in the panel. You can now use the controls.
Step 3. Follow the instructions on the panel to disable the alarm
All commercial fire extinguishing systems are different, so each requires a particular deactivation procedure. However, you will usually have to select a zone or part of the system and press the "reset" or "mute" button.
