When you move into or buy a new home, no one hands you a guide to how the smoke detectors work. They "chirp," which really means shriek loudly, and you occasionally have to put new batteries in them.

Each home security system has its own set of cues and meanings, and you'll need to consult with your manual to work them out. There are, however, a few universal warning sounds used for most household ...

Smoke detectors that only beep at night are acting up for a specific reason: Here's what can save your sanity and sleep.