Smoke Detector Installation in Chesterfield
Homeowners often ask us where they should install smoke alarms, and we direct them to the NFPA guidelines. The NFPA advises putting one in every bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and in the living room. You should also have at least one alarm on each level of the home and near stairways.
The NFPA has advice on where to avoid installing your smoke detector, too. Never place them closer than 10 feet to any cooking appliances. You should also avoid bathrooms, fans, HVAC supplies and returns, windows, and doors. Also, never place them high on walls near ceilings.
Another common question we get is whether you should opt for wired smoke alarm installation. The answer is yes if you can afford the initial cost. Hardwired smoke alarms are actually cheaper over the long run due to a much longer battery life.
The batteries are only used for backup. Wired units are also interconnected without relying on smart features or the local network. If one of them detects a fire, they’re all going to broadcast the alarm.
That said, if a battery-powered unit is what you can afford, it’s much better than having no detector at all. Ideally, opt for a model that has a sealed lithium battery that will last the life of the product.
Regular replacement is also necessary. These devices are very sensitive and become less precise with time. The NFPA advises replacing all smoke detectors in the home 10 years after manufacturing. The manufacturing date is available on the certification label attached to each device.
You may have to schedule replacement services early. Premature malfunction and failure do occur. A telltale sign is the yellowing of the white exterior case.
This doesn’t happen because of smoke or dust as some believe. It happens because smoke detectors contain bromine in the plastic. This yellowing will occur over time due to exposure to oxygen, heat, and ultraviolet radiation.
Smoke alarms have a test button. Test each unit every month. If the test fails or the button does not respond, replace the unit. Do not ignore chirping.
It does indicate battery failure, but it can also indicate unit failure. You should also replace units that turn off unexpectedly or that the manufacturer has recalled.
Check out the latest smoke detector features.
- Voice alerts
- Push notifications
- Integrated CO detection
- Wi-Fi and internet capabilities
- Remote setup, access, and control