How to install a smoke detector in 6 easy steps

Smoke detectors can be the difference between you noticing the warning signs of the fire, and saving your family and your property, or risk losing time, and end up with a lot of material, and possibly emotional damage. It is said that every year more and more people are investing in these devices, and they are used in private properties, as well as business places all around the world.

There are many different types of smoke detectors, and if you maintain them correctly, they will be there to keep you and your family safe for years and maybe even decades to come. If you’ve made the decision to purchase these units, you should know that you made the right choice. After buying them, you are probably wondering if you should contact service to get them installed for you, or if you could do it on your own. In this article, we are going to try and help you, and we are going to give you some tips on how to install a smoke detector in just a few easy steps.

Find the right unit for you

The first thing you need to do is think about the right type of alarm for your needs. In today’s market, you can find many different types of devices, that vary in size, features, and price points. Think about the size of the rooms, and depending on that, choose the right alarms for you.

Note that in most cases you won’t need to purchase more than one unit per room, but once again, this all depends on the type of sensor you get. You can also pick items that are more modern, and that you can connect to your smart devices. Another thing you should take into consideration is maintenance, as well as the type of battery. Some models come with built-in batteries that you won’t need to change for up to a decade, while others require more care and frequent maintenance.

Pick the correct place in every room

After you’ve found the right model for you, you should think about where you need to position them. When it comes to the kitchen, and places where you have direct heating like fireplaces, you should never put the alarm right above it.

Note that there are types of alarms that will detect heat, while other models will detect smoke. To be extra safe, and to avoid any false alarms, you should not put them close to the oven or any type of heating.

When it comes to the bedrooms, experts suggest that you should put them as close to the bed as possible. Install them near the stairs in your hallway and basement, and remember you need to have at least one unit on every floor, including the basement and the attic.

According to x-sense, depending on the type of smoke detector you choose, you may need to install more than one device on every floor, or one may be more than enough. Don’t forget to check the area they cover, and if needed, talk to the seller about the best positioning.

Get the needed equipment

Now let’s talk about the things you are going to need to safely put these devices in your home. First of all, you should not forget about your safety, so always use protective goggles. Chances are, you will put the units on your ceiling, and you will need to drill holes, so always protect your eyes.

For the installation process, you will probably need a pen or a pencil, measuring tape, stud detector, drill and drill bits, as well as a hammer and a screwdriver.

Note that depending on the brand you choose, you may get the needed screws for the units, or you may need to go and purchase them yourself. Some of the units can be installed just by sticking them to your ceiling, but the drilling method is proven to be better, safer, and more reliable.

Follow the instructions

For the next part, you will mostly need to follow the instructions written in the user’s manual. Depending on the type of device you’ve chosen, you will need to probably drill holes, add the plastic wall anchors or screws, and use your screwdriver to put the device in place.

Remember to first check for wires and studs, and never start drilling before you check if there is an electric wire or a pipe in the wall. If you don’t know how to do this, or if you don’t have the right equipment, you can always consult an electrician, or contact the place where you purchased the units, and ask if they offer installation.

Never use too much force, and remember that unless you are using devices that have a 10-year battery, chances are, you will need to take them down for maintenance.

Test the device

After you are done installing your units in every room, you will need to test them. Note that most of the devices have a test button built into them, so you won’t need to light a candle under them to see if they are working.

Just press the button, and see if the alarm sounds. Remember that some of the more advanced units can be connected to your phone, so you can always check if they are working properly directly from your phone.

Never skip this step, and know that checking them if they are properly working from time to time can save you a lot of trouble.

Don’t forget about maintenance

The last thing we are going to talk about is maintenance. Most of the units require only basic maintenance, and you won’t have to worry about them. You need to check the battery and test them if they are working at least once per month.

Always have a getaway plan in case something happens, and don’t forget to practice this drill with your family. Talk to the seller about any special maintenance tips, and never skip these steps. They will be a difference between you investing in something that will always protect you, or the device failing when you need it the most.

Follow these six steps, and you will have no problem installing your smoke detectors in your home. The whole process should not take too long, and if you don’t think you have the needed skills, equipment, or enough time to do it properly, you can always talk to the seller, and get them installed for you.