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FAQ's about smoke detectors

1. How many smoke detectors do I need?

For the best protection, you need one smoke detector per floor, one outside the sleeping area, and one in each bedroom. Most homes require more than one smoke detector. The manufacturers suggestions are the key here. 

2. Where do I mount a smoke detector?

The preferred method is to mount a smoke detector in the center of a room or a central area of the floor that you are protecting. You can also mount a smoke detector on a wall as long as it is four to six inches down from the ceiling which is away from dead air space. Just remember to locate the smoke alarm in a central location if choosing a wall.

The basement can be tricky if you have a closed door like you should at the top of the stairs. Mount a detector centrally located in your basement and then mount one at the top of the stairs so you can easily hear the alarm in the living area.

Keep smoke alarms ten feet away from bathrooms if possible to prevent false alarms caused by steam

Keep smoke alarms twenty feet if possible from kitchens, stoves, or furnaces to prevent false alarms.

3. How often should I change the battery in my smoke detector?

Your battery should be changed twice a year. Usually the best time to remember changing your battery is when daylight savings time begins and ends.

4. What is the chirping noise?

The chirping noise is the signal that your battery is dying because you failed to change the battery twice a year or too many false alarms are draining your detector. If your smoke detector has too many false alarms, it is time to consider relocating it to an area away from the source of false alarms.

5. How do you test a smoke detector?

Your smoke detector's manual should give you  instructions on how to test your smoke detector. Usually, this is done by pressing a button in the center of the smoke detector. If you press this button down for a few seconds and it beeps, then the battery should still be working. If the smoke detector does not beep, than replace the battery and test again.

6. How many years does a smoke detector last?

The most common ionization smoke detector only lasts for ten years. Many people do not realize this fact and could very well have old detectors that are impaired or are ready to fail. Some detectors are now being made with a ten year battery so once the battery dies, you throw the entire unit away. If in doubt, replace your smoke detectors to be on the safe side.