Installing Your Smoke Detector

updated 3 mths ago

Step-by-Step Guide

If you are adding new equipment to your alarm system, make sure you have already added the Smoke Detector to your alarm system before you install the piece of equipment. Please follow the instructions in this article if you haven’t done this already.

Common Installation Locations

Here are some recommended places to install a smoke detector, located below the list are some images to help you decide where to install your new sensor.

Bedrooms
Hallways
Living Rooms
Finished Basements

Locations to Avoid

Do not install Smoke Detectors in the following areas:

Directly above a sink, cooker, stove, or oven
Do not locate a Detector within 10 feet (3m) of any cooking appliance.
- However, to reduce the likelihood of incidental False Alarms due to cooking, the distance can be increased to a minimum of 20 feet (6m) where possible.
Next to a door or window that would be affected by drafts, like an extractor fan or air vent
Do not install the Smoke Detector in a non-climate-controlled environment
- i.e. locations where the normal ambient temperature is below 40°F (4.4°C) or above 100°F (37.8°C)
In or below a cupboard
Where airflow would be obstructed by curtains or furniture
Where dirt or dust could collect and block the sensor
Where it could be knocked, damaged, or inadvertently removed
Near a bathroom, sauna, or other location where steam can cause false alarms

Best Installation Practices

These Smoke Detectors should only be mounted in climate-controlled areas.
Ceiling Mount - place the detector no closer than 4 inches from any wall (measured from the closest outside edge of the detector). The green areas in the images below indicate the proper placement.
Wall Mount - place the detector no more than 12 inches from the ceiling but no closer than 4 inches (measured from the closest outside edge of the detector). The green area below indicates the proper placement.