Typically, we only think about fires or other disasters in the home once they start. But preparation for these troubles is vital. In some countries, residential smoke alarms are required by law – and this is quite a helpful obligation because these devices can significantly minimize fire risks.
But the question is, where is the best place to install smoke alarms to keep your property and loved ones safe in an emergency?
How Does A Smoke Detector Work?
Before we go into where to install a fire alarm system, it’s helpful to understand how a smoke detector alarm works to reduce the risk of devastating consequences. Three types of smoke detectors are available: photoelectric, ionization, and mixed.
- A photoelectric detector measures light when smoke hits the detector. This type of fire detector is best at detecting smoke.
- An ionization detector detects smoke entering an ionization chamber. When the ionized smoke particles are neutralized, the drop in electrical current activates the fire alarm. Ionization detectors are more sensitive to burning fires.
- Mixed fire detectors are a combination of both of these options.
Where To Place Smoke Detectors?
According to the National Fire Protection Association, the most appropriate place for smoke detectors is inside and near sleeping rooms on all home floors, as well as in the kitchen and basement. Depending on the size of the house, multiple fire detectors may be required. Notably, mixed smoke detectors are most effective for early fire detection.
Because smoke rises, installing smoke detectors at a high level (usually on the ceiling) is considered the best option. If smoke alarms are to be installed on the wall, however, they should be placed less than 30 cm from the ceiling.
Placement In The Kitchen
People don’t always place thermal fire detectors in the kitchen for fear that the devices will go off while cooking. However, a smoke alarm is essential in this location simply because fires are more likely to occur there.
Detectors should be installed at least 3 meters away from the stove or oven to minimize false alarms. Of course, this will be difficult in a small kitchen, and then the only option may be to place the smoke detector outside the kitchen at a distance of 3 meters or more from the stove.
Bedroom Placement
Smoke detectors should be placed inside and outside the bedroom, such as in the hallway. If there are not enough smoke alarms to put everywhere, you can install one device outside the bedroom where everyone can hear the alarm.
Basement Placement
It is also essential to install a smoke detector in the basement. In this case, it is also a good idea to combine all the fire detectors in the house to get a timely alert that smoke is in the basement. Otherwise, the home’s occupants may hear the alarm once the fire moves to other areas.
How To Install A Smoke Alarm?
Battery-powered smoke alarms are some of the most straightforward home security devices to install. They are usually ready to go immediately – all the user has to do is hang them up. Of course, you can follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to install a particular smoke detector, but the steps are usually straightforward:
- Unpack the smoke alert and read the documentation;
- Install the battery or remove the protective tab from the battery to activate the unit;
- Select a draft-free location on the ceiling or on a wall 30 cm from the ceiling;
- Attach the mounting bracket;
- Connect the smoke detector;
- Test the smoke detector by pressing the “Test” button. The device should emit a loud sound that can be heard in the immediate vicinity;