Most detectors will emit a shrill chirp or beep and a flashing light when they need a battery replacement. If your detectors are battery-operated, changing the detector’s batteries is the first thing to consider doing when your red light flashes. Start troubleshooting your device if the sound is quiet or there’s no sound at all.Ĭheck your device’s manual or call the manufacturer to get clarity if you’re unsure what the red light means on your particular model. You should hear a loud, high-pitched beeping sound. To do this, press and hold the test button on your detector. Test your smoke detectors at least once a month to ensure they work properly. In the next few sections, we’ll go over some common issues your red light might be trying to indicate. Typically, a blinking red light means there’s a minor issue that you can usually fix fairly simply. Don’t be alarmed if you see your smoke detector blinking red. This allows them to identify quick-burning fires that flare up and smokey fires that smolder fast.ĥ possible causes of a red light on your smoke detectorĪ red light could mean different things depending on your smoke detector. They’re generally considered safer than ionization smoke detectors because most fires start off smoky (and smoke inhalation is far more likely to cause harm to humans than a fire itself).ĭual-sensor detectors can sense both types of particles. Photoelectric smoke detectors pick up large smoke particles. Ionization detectors also tend to have problems with false alarms. The downside to an ionization smoke detector is that it can’t detect smoldering fires as effectively. This type of detector is really good at sensing fires that flare up rapidly. Ionization smoke detectors notice tiny burning particles.

Different types of smoke detectors use different technology to sense particles. Smoke detectors use sensors to detect airborne smoke particles.

In this guide, we explain what the red LED light on your smoke detector could mean and go over some other signals your detector could be sending you. You need to know what to do when you see your smoke detector flashing red. Understanding your detector’s signals can help ensure the device is working properly. Often, a detector will let you know when it needs maintenance. As a homeowner, it’s important to maintain your smoke detectors so they work whenever there’s an emergency.

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