After cleaning a smoke detector, you must test the sensitivity again.

After cleaning a smoke detector, you must test the sensitivity again.

• A. False
• B. Only if it was serviced
• C. True
• D. Never

Answer: (C)

Cleaning a smoke detector can affect how it senses smoke, since dust, residue, or small changes in the sensor area can alter sensitivity or airflow to the sensor. Because of that, you should re-test to make sure the device still responds correctly after cleaning. The quickest way is to press the test button and listen for the alarm, confirming the unit detects smoke signals as it should. If the unit doesn’t alarm during the test, inspect for issues like remaining dust in the sensing chamber, blocked vents, improper mounting, or a low battery, and address them before relying on it. This is why the statement is true: maintenance that could change performance deserves a follow-up test. The other options don’t fit because they imply testing isn’t needed or is conditional, but cleaning can modify sensitivity, so re-testing is a standard safety step.

Cleaning a smoke detector can affect how it senses smoke, since dust, residue, or small changes in the sensor area can alter sensitivity or airflow to the sensor. Because of that, you should re-test to make sure the device still responds correctly after cleaning. The quickest way is to press the test button and listen for the alarm, confirming the unit detects smoke signals as it should. If the unit doesn’t alarm during the test, inspect for issues like remaining dust in the sensing chamber, blocked vents, improper mounting, or a low battery, and address them before relying on it. This is why the statement is true: maintenance that could change performance deserves a follow-up test. The other options don’t fit because they imply testing isn’t needed or is conditional, but cleaning can modify sensitivity, so re-testing is a standard safety step.