Smoke Testing Monitored System

I have a couple of family members with monitored combination fire and security systems in their houses. I would like to functionality test their smoke detectors because as far as we know, they have not been smoke tested in years. I intend to test with canned smoke. (Before somebody asks, this is being done with the permission of the homeowners).

Obviously, with these systems being monitored, they need to be on test mode while testing the detectors. However, I’m concerned about what happens after we take the system off of test. If a detector re-alarms, that’s a problem.

For those who test in the field, what precautions do you normally take to prevent re-alarms after testing? How long do you like to stay on test mode?

You should be able to keep the system in test mode with the monitoring station for as long as you want. Generally, about 15 minutes after your last test would be adequate to be sure you don’t get any bounceback alarms. When spraying the detector, use a minimum of smoke. About a 1-2 second burst should be enough to trip the sensor. Once the alarm is activated, fan the detector to clear the smoke. Verify that the detector is clean, mounted properly and not blocked. Verify that it trips the alarm panel and when you call the monitoring station back to take it off test, ask what signals they received to confirm against what was tested.

Yeah: another precaution that could be taken would be to thoroughly blow out each detector with a can of compressed air (like computer duster) after testing them: that should help clear the sensor of smoke spray & help prevent re-alarm (which I’ve actually seen professional technicians do).

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