How Do I Stop My Smoke Detector From Making That Chirping Noise?

WHAT IS THAT NOISE!!?? I first encountered this problem when I lived in an apartment complex.  I kept hearing this high pitched noise that sounded like a squeak, or a chirp, or a short whistle from a tea pot.  I couldn't tell what I was hearing.  I even began to think that someone in the building liked playing with their remote for their car alarm system!  There's a very simple and easy explanation and fix for this problem.  It's so easy, in fact, that you'll laugh when you read this remedy. 

Locate the chirping smoke detector. Very safely climb on your stable, sturdy step ladder while your helper spots you.  Find the directions imprinted on the detector base which tell you how to remove the smoke detector. Most likely (if it's a round detector) the detector turns off of the base. Usually you have to turn it counter clockwise.

Once the detector is off and in your hand, turn it over so you can see the inner workings. Remove the battery. Have your helper hand you the new battery and replace the face of the detector on the base.  Enjoy the peace and quiet. The chirping is the smoke detector's way of telling you that its time to replace the battery. Isn't that sweet? If only you'd have known before it drove you crazy!!

A Few Additional Thoughts:

Check what kind of battery your smoke detector takes. Mine takes 9-volt.

Do not do this while home alone, with a cigarette in your hand, or while drinking. If you have to climb, its always easier and better to have someone there to hand things to you, pick up the things you may drop, and generally make things easier. Sounds silly, but it makes a difference.