Smoke detectors are simple and inexpensive safety essentials that can save lives. Correct installation is important to get the most out of the detectors. Read on to learn more about proper smoke detector placement in the home.

Smoke detectors should be placed on the ceiling whenever possible. If the ceiling isn’t an option, install the unit high on the wall within 12 inches of the ceiling. Keep devices away from windows, doors, and air vents, as drafts can affect their function.

Smoke Detector Placement in the Bedrooms

Because family members are less alert when sleeping, it’s essential to have working smoke detectors in each bedroom. If a fire breaks out in a sleeping area, a smoke detector in the bedroom provides an immediate alert. Install detecting devices in the hallway outside of the bedrooms, too.

Correct Placement in the Kitchen

Kitchen fires can easily grow out of control and end in disaster, yet the kitchen smoke detector is often disabled due to false alarms. Make sure you have a working detector in your kitchen. To reduce the chance of false alarms, install the unit 10 to 12 feet away from any cooking appliance.

Other Areas for Smoke Detector Placement

Check your home to verify you have smoke detectors on every level of your home. Install one in the garage, attic, and at least one in the basement. For warning of fires that begin on other floors, it’s also good to have a smoke detector on the ceiling at the bottom of the stairs.

Maintaining Your Alarms

When remodeling, take care to keep paint and sawdust off of smoke detectors. Verify they are working by testing each device once a month. Batteries should be replaced twice every year. A helpful way to remember this is to change the batteries when Daylight Savings Time begins and ends.

Properly installed smoke detectors will help ensure you and your family receive an early alert in case of fire.

Assure Home Inspection offers home inspections to Chicagoland and Chicago’s south and west Suburbs. Contact us to request our services.