Remodel Answers · Safety & Prevention · Smoke & CO Detectors
How often should smoke and CO detectors be replaced?
Short answer
Smoke detectors: replace the whole unit every 10 years (the sensor degrades regardless of battery). CO detectors: 5–7 years depending on brand — check the sticker on the back for the exact replace-by date. If either detector is over its date, replace it now, then set a calendar reminder for the next one.
Placement in WA homes
Smoke detectors on every level, in every bedroom, and outside every sleeping area. CO detectors within 15 feet of every sleeping area and on every level with any combustion appliance (gas furnace, gas water heater, gas fireplace, attached garage).
Hardwired vs. battery
Homes built after ~1993 in WA are typically hardwired with battery backup — replace the batteries once a year regardless. Older homes may be battery-only; upgrade to 10-year-sealed-lithium units so you're not chasing a chirp at 2 a.m.
Combo units
Combined smoke+CO detectors are practical for interior sleeping-area coverage, but keep dedicated CO detectors near combustion appliances. On assessments we log every detector's replace-by date so you know what needs to change and when.
What we see on Free Onsite Consultations
Based on real experience across the greater PNW, safety & prevention issues like this are among the ones homeowners most often miss until they become expensive. Our Free Onsite Consultation catches them early — while they're still a maintenance item, not a repair.
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