According to NFPA, house smoke alarm systems shall be tested by a qualified technician at least:

• A. Annually
• B. Daily
• C. Weekly
• D. Monthly

Answer: (A)

NFPA 72 requires that house smoke alarm systems be inspected, tested, and maintained, with a professional test performed at least once a year. This annual interval provides a reliable verification of all components—detectors, interconnections, power sources, and supervision—without the impractical burden of more frequent professional tests. In homes, occupants should still do a monthly functional check of each detector themselves to ensure they sound and have battery power, but that routine does not replace the required annual professional testing. Monthly, daily, or weekly professional tests aren’t aligned with the standard, while the annual professional test ensures the system remains fully reliable over time.