Smoke Alarm Installation Tips To Make Sure It’s Done Right

A smoke alarm install job needs to be done correctly because your safety and the very lives of your family could depend on it.

Here is some advice for getting the job done right. 

Compliance With Australian Standards And Regulations

Smoke alarms need to comply with AS 3786:2014, which is a regulation that specifies the requirements for smoke alarms in households or other residential applications. If you're going to install a smoke alarm, you first need to make sure that it is certified to this specific standard. Other regulations mandate that smoke alarms need to be installed on every level of your dwelling, including in hallways leading to bedrooms and in bedrooms themselves.

Proper Placement Of Smoke Alarms

Critically, smoke alarms must be installed on the ceiling, not on the walls, as smoke rises and accumulates at the ceiling level first. Do not place the alarms near windows, doors, or air conditioning vents, where drafts can interfere with their ability to detect smoke quickly.

Interconnect Your Smoke Alarms

While you can install separate smoke alarms that operate on their own, it is better to have interconnected smoke alarms to enhance safety. This will ensure that when one alarm detects smoke, all the alarms in the dwelling will sound simultaneously.

Don't Forego Regular Maintenance And Testing

Once the smoke alarm is installed, it should be tested immediately and then thereafter on a monthly basis by pressing the test button. If the smoke alarm does not sound, it should either have its battery replaced or the entire unit should be replaced. Also, replace the batteries in the smoke alarm once a year, whether they have been used or not, as batteries may deteriorate over time.

Make sure as well that you adhere to the limited lifespan of the smoke alarm as specified by the manufacturer. The general rule of thumb is that smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years, as their sensors can degrade over time, reducing their effectiveness.

Consider The Power Source

Smoke alarms can either be powered by replaceable batteries, sealed lithium batteries with a 10-year lifespan or can be connected to the home's main power supply. If your smoke alarms are powered by the mains, then it is important that they have battery backups installed to ensure that they can operate even during power outages.

If you’re looking for professional smoke alarm install assistance, contact the professionals at HUX Electrical today.