NFPA 72 specifies that household smoke alarm systems must be tested how often?

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

Answer: (C)

You test household smoke alarms every month to verify they will work when it matters. NFPA 72 requires that occupants perform a monthly test of each unit to confirm the alarm can sound, the power source is functioning (battery or hardwired), and, for interconnected systems, that the signal travels between units. This regular check helps catch common issues early—dead batteries, dust or debris blocking the sensor, or a faulty interconnection—before a fire occurs. Daily or weekly tests aren’t required for homes, and testing only once a year could let problems go unnoticed for too long. Even with sealed 10-year batteries or hardwired systems, you still test monthly to ensure the entire alarm network remains operational.