How Do I Dispose of My Smoke Detector?

Did you know that smoke detectors need to be replaced every 10 years?  Over time, the sensors become weak and less reliable.  Disposing of a smoke detector depends on what kind you have. 

There are two common types of smoke detector found in residen­tial homes. The two types of smoke detectors are ionization and photo­electric detectors. Ionization smoke detectors contain a very minute amount of radioactive material known as Americium 241. Photoelectric-type smoke detectors do not contain any radioactive material. The amount of radioactive material contained in ionization smoke detectors is so small it does not pose a risk to human health. If the detector contains radioactive material, it is required by law to have a warning label on the body of the detector. Look for the label on the back of the detector facing the mounting base.

The label may have the international symbol for radiation (as shown). If the smoke detector does not include either the warning or the radiation symbol on the label, and if there is no evidence the label has been removed or destroyed, it is safe to assume the device does not contain any radioactive material. If the label is missing or destroyed, treat the device as if it is an ionization unit. These detectors do not last forever, and at some point they need to be disposed. Proper disposal of ionization units is described below. Some state and local laws and regula­tions prohibit the disposal of ionization smoke detectors in the municipal waste stream.  ORANGE COUNTY SOLID WASTE WILL NOT ACCEPT IONIZATION SMOKE DETECTORS.  For this reason, smoke detec­tors containing radioactive material should be returned to the manufacturer for disposal.

When returning a detector to the manufacturer, include a note indicating the detector is to be disposed of, and mail it to the address listed on the back of the detector. The fol­lowing smoke detector manufacturers/distributors will take back their smoke detectors:

If you have a photoelectric smoke detector, you may dispose of it with your normal trash once the battery is removed.  Dispose of the battery per the Orange County Hazardous Materials policy.

Another alternative is to contact recycler Curie Environmental Services to properly recycle your smoke detector.

We hope this information helps.  As always, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at (919) 732-7911.

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