Which of the following statements is true about battery-operated smoke detectors?

Battery-operated smoke detectors are designed to function independently of the electrical wiring system in a building, which provides flexibility in placement and installation. However, one of their primary considerations is the need for periodic maintenance. When the batteries in these detectors run low or become depleted, the devices will cease to function effectively, posing a safety risk if not addressed. Therefore, replacing the batteries periodically – typically suggested at least once a year – ensures that the smoke detectors remain operational and capable of alerting occupants to smoke or fire. This makes it crucial for users to remember the maintenance schedule to ensure their safety.

The other statements do not hold true for battery-operated smoke detectors. While they do provide a reliable power source when functioning correctly, they do not offer constant power like hard-wired systems, which draw power directly from the electrical system. Regarding false alarms, the frequency may depend on various factors including design and environmental influences, and battery-operated models do not have a definitive advantage over hard-wired variants. Lastly, most battery-operated smoke detectors are not designed to be interconnected with other alarms, a feature more commonly found in hard-wired systems which can communicate with multiple units throughout a building.