Ad-free. Influence-free. Powered by consumers.
Skip to Main ContentThe payment for your account couldn't be processed or you've canceled your account with us.
Re-activate
Q. Do you recommend using 9-volt lithium batteries to replace standard batteries in smoke detectors so that the replacement cycle can be extended?—William P. Bivins, Greenville, NC
A. Lithium 9Vs aren't recommended for smoke detectors unless you follow a strict battery replacement schedule. Those batteries maintain a high voltage until the end of their usable life, so they provide a much shorter "low battery" warning to alert you that it's time to swap in a fresh one. Alkaline batteries, by comparison, have a more gradual voltage drop-off, prolonging the "low battery" alert and greatly increasing the odds that you'll be nearby to get the alert.
Send your questions to ConsumerReports.org/askourexperts.
—Consumer Reports
Build & Buy Car Buying Service
Save thousands off MSRP with upfront dealer pricing information and a transparent car buying experience.
Get Ratings on the go and compare
while you shop
