How to Place a Smoke Detector
It is important to properly place the smoke detectors in the home. In most locations throughout the U.S., smoke detectors are required in all new homes. The number and location are listed below:
Number and Location Requirements
- The minimum standard as stated in the National Fire Prevention Association's National Fire Alarm Code (NFPA 72): There should be a smoke detector on every level of the house, including the basement and outside every bedroom.
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Placement Requirements
- As stated by the NFPA: "Since smoke and deadly gases rise, alarms should be placed on the ceiling at least 4 inches from the nearest wall, or high on a wall, 4-12 inches from the ceiling. This 4-inch minimum is important to keep alarms out of possible "dead air" spaces, because hot air is turbulent and may bounce so much it misses spots near a surface. Installing alarms near a window, door or fireplace is not recommended because drafts could detour smoke away from the unit. In rooms where the ceiling has an extremely high point, such as in vaulted ceilings, mount the alarm at or near the ceiling's highest point."
Additional Guidelines for Installation
- If you sleep with your bedroom doors closed, it is recommended that a smoke detector be installed inside each bedroom. Alarms should also be installed in other areas of your home where people sleep.
- Wired systems should not be connected to a circuit that could be turned off with a wall switch.
- Plug-in systems should have a restraining device at the outlet to prevent the plug from accidentally coming loose.
- Hard-wired systems should be installed by a qualified electrician.
- Do not install the smoke detector near windows, doors or forced-air registers where air flow would interfere with the operation of the detector.
