Smoke detectors in the wrong spots create false alarms, fail to detect fires at all and other annoying problems. So if you want to keep chirps to the minimum while still making sure smoke alarms can sense fires in seconds, placement is key.
Whether you’re adding a basic alarm or upgrading to a smart smoke detector, here are the spots I recommend putting alarms, and what places will cause the most trouble.
The best places for a smoke detector
Placing a smoke detector within easy reach may sound like a good idea, but invites problems.
These locations are bad news for smoke detectors, even if it may seem like a good idea at the time. Avoid placing them in areas like these.
Within easy hand’s reach
It’s tempting to put a smoke detector within easy reach, so that you can quickly change batteries or try to turn it off if it begins beeping for no reason. But that’s a serious mistake that could jeopardize your safety. Smoke alarms need to be high to catch rising smoke early. Also, installing them lower down makes the detector more susceptible to damage or being turned off permanently by mistake.
In a roof’s peak
If putting a smoke detector close to the ceiling is important, why not put it right at the peak of a slanted roof? Some people try to do this in lofts, cabins and similar rooms. However, it can blocked a smoke detector’s sensors and make wiring more complicated. Aim about a foot lower when installing.
Close to windows or doors
Both windows and doors can create drafts (or let in smoky air) that mess with a smoke alarm’s sensor and can lead to being less accurate. Install smoke alarms on inner walls away from openings like these.
Close to bathrooms
The steam and heat from bathrooms can also ruin a smoke detector’s sensors over time. Avoid installing smoke alarms near bathroom doors, or inside bathrooms.
Next to furnaces or fireplaces
Getting too close to a furnace or fireplace increase the odds of a false alarm, and can deteoriate smoke detectors more quickly.
How to install a smoke detector
Nest Protect smoke devices.
Smoke detector false alerts happen, although our top picks like Kidde use sensors designed to cut down on them. If you hear a smoke alarm, check for the source of the smoke before calling 911. A small grease fire in a pan, for example, can be easily extinguished. However, if there is heavy smoke or a fire you can’t control, evacuate the home right away and call 911.
A home safety plan is vital so that everyone at home knows what to do in case of an emergency. Have an exit plan in case of fire including where everyone should meet outside of the home, who’s in charge of pets or essentially medications and so on.
For more safety tips, check out where you should put a carbon monoxide detector, our guide to preparing for natural disasters and how to recover important documents after a fire or other natural disaster. For more information about home safety, check out the best places to put your home security cameras and the best cheap home security systems you can buy.
