If you’ve noticed your Kidde smoke detector flashing red every 40 seconds, you’re right to be concerned.
After all, smoke detectors are vital for ensuring your family’s safety.
In fact, the probability of death is 55% less in homes with working smoke detectors according to NFPA.
That’s why, it’s essential to check for any unusual behavior including chirping and flashing lights.
In this article, I’ll delve into the potential reasons behind this flashing red light.
What Does the Red Light Indicate?
When your Kidde smoke detector flashes red every 40 seconds, it’s trying to communicate a specific message.
I’ve seen it happening with my device as well.
While you might find this red light concerning, it’s nothing to worry about.
For some models, it’s a sign of a malfunction. For others, however, it’s an indicator that it’s working perfectly.
Remember that the exact meaning of a flashing red light can vary depending on the model.
Kidde smoke detector flashing red (Common Reasons)
Almost every smoker detector features light indicators with beeps and chirp sounds.
It’s the same with your Kidde smoke detector!
To put it simply, the Kidde smoke detector comes with red and green light indicators. Both of these LED indicators have different purposes to serve.
Here, we’d look at the several factors that could trigger the red flashing light on your Kidde smoke detector.
Good working conditions:
The Kidde smoke detector flashing red every 40 seconds means it’s working properly. You can tell the device is in good working condition!
So, next time you see your Kidde smoke detector flashing red 30-40 seconds, don’t panic!
Just know that it’s telling you that it’s functioning properly!
Waiting for air to clear:
Typically, it’s normal for the Kidde smoke detector to flash red every second after it goes into an alarm state.
Your alarm is doing its job of sniffing out any smoke or fumes.
Hence, it triggers the red LED light until the air is clear of any smoke.
Think of it as an indicator that’s signaling that it’s back to normal working condition after an alarm.
The alarm is activated:
While you may or may not know this, your Kidde smoke detector comes with an “alarm memory.”
This feature is extremely helpful when it comes to false alarms, especially when the devices are interconnected.
When it’s activated, you will find your Kidde smoke detector flashing a red light every 16 seconds.
But the good thing is that you can reset it. To reset it, push the Test/Hush button!
Low Battery:
One of the most common reasons for a Kidde smoke detector flashing red light is a low battery.
When the detector’s battery power drops below a certain level, it activates the red light to alert you.
Not only does it alert you through a red light, but it also chirps every 30-40 seconds!
Remember that regularly checking and replacing the batteries can prevent this issue.
And it’s important to do so because your alarm might not respond if it’s running on low battery.
Dirty Sensor:
Believe it or not, sometimes dust, dirt, or insect infestations can contaminate the smoke sensor.
Because of these factors, your alarm might trigger false alarms., you would also notice your alarm flashing red light!
To avoid this, keep your Kidde smoke detector clean!
Faulty battery or End of Life:
Another possible reason for Kidde smoke detector flashing red light is some malfunction.
Or, it could also be because it’s now almost dead (end-of-life condition)!
In short, if your unit has reached the end of its life or is malfunctioning, it triggers a red light. Besides flashing red light, the alarm will also chirp every 30 seconds!
In this case, you’ve to consider two options: replace the faulty battery or the alarm itself.
Wiring or Power Issues:
Sometimes, the power supply can cause the alarm to flash red light.
It’s best that you check the wiring and power source to ensure a stable power supply.
Note: It goes without saying that you should always seek professional help.
Guide to Resolving the Kidde Smoke Detector Flashing Red Light
While the Kidde alarm flashing red light every 40 seconds isn’t alarming, you can resolve it.
Check and replace the batteries
The first thing you should check is the batteries. Usually, the detector will chirp every 60 seconds.
So, if your Kidde smoke detector flashes red light with chirping, it’s time to replace batteries!
That said, try replacing the batteries with fresh ones.
Get a replacement
If the unit is faulty, it might not function the way it should. And, it could trigger red flashing light along with chirping!
If possible, you should get it fixed by contacting Kidde product support.
For your general home and personal safety, it’s best to contact Kidde Product Support.
That way, you’ll be able to fix the alarm if it’s not working after flashing red light.
Wrapping Up
Resolving the issue of your Kidde smoke detector flashing red every 40 seconds is crucial. After all, the working alarm can keep you safe.
Consider troubleshooting the device for low battery if the red light is accompanied by chirps. Also, contact Kidde support in case it stops working.