(a) In new residential dwelling units, smoke detectors shall be hard-wired directly to the building's power supply with a DC battery backup. All wiring shall meet the requirements of N.F.P.A. 70, 72E and 74 and this Code.
(b) In existing residential dwelling units, smoke detectors may be powered by a monitored battery which shall ensure that the following conditions are met:
(1) Requirements are met for at least one year of life, including weekly testing.
(2) An audible trouble signal is given before the battery fails due to aging, terminal corrosion, etc.
(3) The detector is capable of producing an alarm signal for at least four minutes followed by seven days of trouble signal operation. This audible trouble signal shall be produced at least once every minute for seven consecutive days.
(4) The monitored batteries meeting these specifications shall be clearly identified on the unit near the battery compartment.
(Ord. 298-88. Passed 11-9-88; Ord. 389-94. Passed 5-6-96.)