How to Install a Smoke Detector
You should have at least one smoke detector in every bedroom and on every level of your house. The most important location is in the hallway near the bedrooms as well. Fires are most likely fatal when they happen while families are sleeping. What can happen is that the fumes given off by a fire are very dangerous, and can asphyxiate a person without waking them up. Another good place to have a smoke detector is in the living room or family room, where there is a sofa or easy chair since careless smoking causes over 32% of all household fires in which 1-2 fatalities occur. Smokers who fall asleep cause most of these deaths so if you do smoke, be sure to install smoke alarms in your bedroom, living room and family room.
The second most common cause of household fires is heating and cooking. That adds up to over 7% and match, lighter, or candle fires cause over 5% of deaths.
There are two common types of smoke detectors, which are photoelectric, and ionization units. Photoelectric detectors are most sensitive to smoke, making them very effective in bedrooms and living rooms where fires often smolder in things like carpet, furniture, etc.
Ionization detectors will respond more quickly to the heat of flaming fires. They work best near the kitchen area.
Smoke detectors are powered by battery or a house current. Battery powered units are easier to install and will offer protection even if the electricity is out. Make sure your unit has a warning when the battery power is low. House current-powered units must be wired in and if you do purchase this kind of unit make sure you have the battery installed in case the power fails.
It is also a good idea to install a smoke detector with an escape light in an interior hallway, which is usually dark at night. The light will help guide you if you are awakened by the alarm. There are also hearing impaired units that can be purchased if needed.
You should always test your unit monthly to make sure it is in good working order. Ionization units come with test buttons but shining a flashlight into the light sensor can test the photoelectric units.
You should install smoke detectors on a ceiling, or high on a wall 8-10 inches below the ceiling. Cathedral ceilings are a little different. You should place the detector about 3 feet below the peak. It’s also a good idea to look for “dead” areas in your home and avoid installing there. These areas are places with little or no air circulation.
To install a battery operated smoke detector, you should hold the unit at the area you have chosen and trace the keyhole shaped slots onto the ceiling or wall. Remove the manufacturer-installed battery, which is usually installed backwards to prevent the unit from becoming activated until ready for use. Drill holes into the circular-shaped area. Insert the plastic anchors that come with the unit. Insert the screws so the heads protrude slightly from the ceiling. Place the wide end of the keyhole slots over the screws. Slide the unit to lock it into place. Install the battery and test the unit.
