Since air must pass freely through the detection chamber, smoke detectors will always attract a lot of dust and pollen particles. Dust and other particles entering into the detection chamber cause the alarm to become more sensitive and can increase false alarms. Dirt will also occur over time as the smoke detector gets older, which again causes an increase in false alarms.

Vacuum the smoke detectors regularly but be careful not to damage the electronics. If you clean up a room and this results in grinding or sanding, you should install the warning device while the work is in progress or cover it. Shower caps are well suited for this. If the smoke detector approaches 10 years and alarms frequently, it is time to replace it.