Smoke Detectors FAQs

How many smoke detectors do I need?

Install a smoke alarm outside each sleeping area and on every floor level of the home, including the basement. On floors without bedrooms, smoke detectors should be installed near the stairway. Be sure everyone sleeping in your home can hear your smoke alarm(s). It is recommended that if persons in your home sleep with the bedroom door closed that you also install a smoke alarm in the bedroom.

How do I install smoke detectors?

Most battery-powered smoke detectors can be installed using only a drill and a screwdriver, by following the manufacturer's instructions. Electrical (hard-wired) smoke detectors should be installed by a qualified electrician.

Where do I install my smoke detectors?

Smoke detectors should be mounted on the ceiling at least 6 inches from the nearest wall. In a room with a pitched ceiling, mount the alarm at or near the ceiling's highest point. Don't install a smoke alarm too near a window, door, ceiling fan or forced-air register where drafts could interfere with the alarm's operation.

Why does my battery powered smoke alarm keep making a chirp about once a minute?

Battery powered smoke detectors have a built in low battery alarm that will make it do that. Try changing the battery and that should solve the problem.

Every time I take a shower, the alarm in the hallway goes off.  Why?

Steam will indeed set off some detectors. It can also rust the components of the detector. Try moving the unit farther from the door but, be sure to keep it within ten feet of the sleeping quarters. Try using the bathroom exhaust fan or open a window to help remove the steam as well.

I burned some food on the stove and it set off our AC powered detector. We couldn't turn it off until the smoke cleared, so I disconnected the wires. Was that OK?

You should never disconnect wires or remove the battery from your smoke detectors. If you forget to rewire them (or replace the battery on a battery powered detector) you have no fire protection. There are some battery powered units on the market that have a silencer button (pause feature). For AC powered units, identify and mark the circuit breaker or fuse for the circuit it is on so that you do not have a shock hazard.

There are so many brands of smoke detectors, which is the best?

As far as detection capabilities go, all smoke detectors test about the same. If you wish to spend extra money on special features, that is your decision, based on what you would like. The alarm should be approved by ULC and/or CSA approved.

Will the smoke detectors that are wired to the house's electricity work if the power goes out?

No. - Without any electricity, the alarm will not work. There are two alternatives: Replace them with the new smoke alarm that has a battery backup or buy a separate battery powered alarm and install it next to your electrically powered unit.

How often should I change the battery in my smoke alarm?

You should change your battery at least twice a year. A good way to remember to do this is when you change your clocks, ... "Change your clock, change your battery!" ... in the spring and fall.

My smoke alarm goes off for no apparent reason. Why?

This is a complex answer. It could be due to environmental factors such as dust, cobwebs, cigarette smoke, cooking vapors, shower steam, temperature extremes, etc. These all affect the sensitivity of smoke detectors and they can go off for the slightest reason. It also could be due to failure of the unit. As with all electronic devices, they can fail, the older they get. If you are having numerous false detectors, try vacuuming your smoke alarm with a hose-type vacuum. If this does not cure the problem, you may need to replace it.