Installing a Smoke Detector 2

Choosing and Installing Smoke Detectors Part 2

How to Maintain Smoke Detectors

Check smoke detectors monthly. Most alarms have an easily accessible test button which sounds the alarm when pressed. If for some reason yours does not have a test button, light a candle, blow out the flame after waiting a few seconds and place the smoking wick approximately six inches away from the smoke detector. The smoke should trip the alarm.

Another important step in maintaining smoke detectors is to replace the batteries often.  This should be done annually to make sure alarms function properly. To help you remember, pick a date such as your Birthday on which to replace the batteries.

If you need to replace an ionization detector, bear in mind that it contains radioactive material and will need to be disposed of properly. Take it to a recycling center or send it back to the manufacturer.

Installing Smoke Detectors

Most smoke detectors are so easy to install they only take a couple of minutes. The trickier part is knowing where to place them. Once you have figured this out, you will know how many you need to keep your family safe and you will also have a better idea of which type to install.

Follow these suggestions when mounting fire alarms:

*Attach each unit to the ceiling or at the top of a wall about 8 to 10 inches below ceiling level, no lower.

*Do not install smoke detectors in corners. They will not function properly because air circulation in corners is low.

*Do not install smoke detectors close to the kitchen, furnace, fireplace or garage, or just outside a bathroom door. This will help prevent false alarms.

*In a single-floor home with bedrooms located in the same area, you can install one unit in the hallway between the bedroom and the living areas.

*If your bedrooms are spread out or on different floors, you will need at least two fire alarms. Place one near the stairway on each level and outside the bedroom doors that are more than 30 feet away.

*Protect your basement as well. Smoke and heat rise, so be sure to mount the smoke detector at the top of the basement stairway rather than on the ceiling in the middle of the room. It is also a good idea to have smoke alarms in attics and crawl spaces. However, be sure you can access the alarm quickly in case it is only a false alarm and you need to turn it off.