Smoke Detectors in the Night

Smoke Detectors in the Night

by | Sep 15, 2025 | Blog Posts, DIY Electrical Advice, Practical DIY Advice

Smoke Detectors in the Night

It’s that time of year again

Its no coincidence that Smoke  & Heat Detectors start beeping at you in the wee small hours as the weather starts to get colder.

Many Mains-operated Smoke and Heat Detectors have a removable back-up battery (for those times when you have a power cut, and need to know that you’re still protected).

If the battery is running a bit low, its going to let you know by beeping at you intermittently. Annoyingly this often means that you’re not in the right place at the right time to work out which Smoke Detector is actually beeping at you.

Batteries struggle in colder weather

What can you do about it?

PP3 Battery

Well, be prepared. This is likely to happen in the middle of the night, and it is going to drive you mad.

Most Smoke/Heat Detectors take a 9V PP3 Battery. Its a good idea to stock up on these in anticipation tht you’re going to need them

Buy some batteries, just in case

How do you change the Battery?

Each make of Smoke Detector is slightly different.

Some twist off – you turn the body of the Smoke Detector Anti-clockwise and it drops down, giving you access to the battery chamber.

Others (Aico in particular) slide off. You need to push a small flat-head screwdriver into a small hole to release the locking mechanism.

If you search online for your make of Smoke Detector, there will be instructions for accessing the battery and changing it.

Once you have changed the battery, press the TEST button, to make sure that its working. If you have Interconnected-Smoke Detectors, this should set all your smoke Detectors going.

Check the date

Smoke Detector Expiry Date

Yes, Smoke & Heat Detectors have an expiry date. This should be written on the side of the detector. Often they’ll tell you that they’re old, by beeping at you.

If your Smoke Detctectors have expired, please change them. With some makes, this is very much a DIY Job. 

Check out our post “How Old are Your Smoke Detectors?” if you need more information about how to do this.

Another useful source of helpful information  is the Safelincs Website. They sell all sorts of alarms, and have lots of useful How-to Guides on their website.

Look after your Smoke Detectors.

They could save your life.

Check the date

Yes, Smoke & Heat Detectors have an expiry date. This should be written on the side of the detector. Often they’ll tell you that they’re old, by beeping at you.

If your Smoke Detctectors have expired, please change them. With some makes, this is very much a DIY Job. 

Check out our post “How Old are Your Smoke Detectors?” if you need more information about how to do this.

Another useful source of helpful information  is the Safelincs Website. They sell all sorts of alarms, and have lots of useful How-to Guides on their website.

Smoke Detector Expiry Date

Please Look after your Smoke Detectors.

They could save your life.

FAQ

What is a DIY Course?

A DIY course is a structured program that teaches individuals practical skills for home improvement, repairs, and creative projects.

Who can benefit from a DIY course?

Anyone can benefit from a DIY course, especially beginners looking to build confidence and learn essential home improvement skills.

What topics are covered in your DIY home improvement courses?

Topics include using  hand tools and power tools, carrying out basic repairs in the home, woodworking and carpentry projects, plumbing skills, electrical work, and creative projects tailored to individual needs.

What should I bring?

We recommend wearing old clothing, and sturdy shoes. In the colder months, we suggest that these are warm, or layered. It can get cold in the Workshop.

If you have long hair, we strongly recommend that, for your own safety,  you keep it tied up while you are using any power tools.

If you would like to bring your own PPE (Personal Protectve Equipment), please feel free to do so. We will provide PPE, but we know that some people would prefer to use their own. (We recommend that you mark them up with your names, so that you can identify them)

Are your courses suitable for women?

Definitely. bePractical DIY specialises in empowering women to tackle home projects with confidence. However, we encourage anyone to sign up to our DIY courses, regardless of gender. We provide a safe space for anyone to learn hands-on practical skills. 

We also run Women-only DIY Clubs in the evenings. 

Can I do TWO Courses on the Same Day?

Yes. That’s no problem. We run courses that follow on from each other on the same, so that you can.

We offer a £20 Discount when you book TWO Courses at the same time. 

We guarantee that the days will be fun and empowering, but they may also be tiring. Remember you will be learning lots of new information and skills, and so may find the day tiring. Please bear that in mind.

What tools and materials do I need for DIY Training?

We provide all tools and materials. You only need to bring yourself and an enthusiam to learn.
You’re very welcome to bring your own tools, if you’d like to learn how to use them and get some practice. 

How long do DIY workshops typically last?

Our DIY workshops vary in length, depending on your need.

We run 2-hour long Bitesize courses, to give you a taster of a DIY Skill.

We run several Half-Day courses in general  DIY skills, DIY Plumbing skills and Carpentry Skills.

We also run evening DIY Clubs – 2 hours each week over a 4-week term 

How do I book, and where are you based?

You can book online at bePractical DIY.

We’re based in Bristol, with small group classes for lots of personal attention.

Can I buy this DIY Course as a gift?

Absolutely. Great idea. The perfect gift for the persoon who wants to build some self-confidence: Gift vouchers are available here.

Can I take DIY lessons at home?

Yes, we offer personalised DIY lessons, with our DIY Assist Service,  in your home to help you tackle specific projects.

We come to your home to help you work through your DIY Jobs list.

What if i have a question after the course?

We offer ongoing support by email, WhatsApp, or phone. We know how important it it to have support when you are doing your DIY projects. That’s why we’re here.

We’ll also send you comprehensive follow-up notes for the course, so that you don’t have to take notes. We want you to get as much out of the course as possible. 

No such thing as a daft question here!

Got another Question?

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