You Gotta Be Wise

[swampgator]

Batteries have a shelf life and it is normally stamped on the package. To extend the life of a waiting battery, put them in a refrigerator or some cool storage. Else, when the stamped date comes and they have been stored in a regular shelf, they won't last very long.

Another point is that after a few years, most fire alarms and detectors need to be replaced. The sensitive diaphrams just die a slow death. Smoke detectors normally need to be replaced between 6 and 10 years. The testing doesn't prove anything. Talk with a fireman at your local fire department.