Smoke Detector Mishap by a Somerfield Resident (permission granted to cross-post)

I had problems with the smoke detectors inexplicably going off. I assumed the reason was bad batteries. I changed the batteries and put new Duracell's in all the smoke detectors. A few days later, individual smoke detectors started beeping like the batteries were bad. Pulled the battery out and it was very warm, almost hot. I pulled the smoke detector down and called the 800 number on the back.

My smoke detector is a model 4120B made by BRK Brands in Aurora. After speaking with them and explaining what was happening I got the following responses:

1) Do not use Duracell batteries in your smoke detectors. They have seen many problems with Duracell batteries overheating. They are not seeing problems with Everready or Energizer.

2) The smoke detectors should be cleaned on a regular basis. You can do this by using compressed air. You can buy it in can form, it is often used for cleaning computer equipment.

3) The smoke detectors should be replaced within 10 years. We are coming up on that 10 year mark. The new model replacing the 4120B is the 9120B. They can be found at most hardware stores under the BRK Brand.

At this point I'm just going to replace all of mine, I would suggest you check your own, verify the model number and if different call the 800 number on the back to get the correct replacement.

Thanks Bob & Donna for sharing this!