How To Install A Smoke Detector

A smoke detector is an essential home safety device that is required in most states. Installing a smoke detector in your home will help ensure the safety of your family.

Step 1 – Select the Locations

Select the locations in your home where you feel smoke detectors would be warranted. Typically, you should install one just outside of each bedroom and just outside of the kitchen. You can mount smoke detectors on the wall or ceiling. Keep in mind that the devices tend to detect smoke more rapidly when ceiling mounted.

Step 2 – Make the Cutout

Use the electrical cut-in box to draw an outline on the ceiling where you will be mounting the box. Use a small paperclip or a precision screwdriver to verify there are no studs in the way of the hole you will be cutting out. If necessary, adjust the positioning slightly. Use your keyhole or drywall saw to cut this portion of drywall out.

Step 3 – Cut the Power

Turn off power to the room at the main circuit panel.

Step 4 – Run the Wire

From within the attic, run the 12-by-2 electrical wiring from the main circuit panel to the cutout you made.

Step 5 – Install the Circuit Breaker

Connect the black wire to the hot side, the white wire to the neutral side and the solid copper wire to the ground on the circuit breaker. Leave the breaker out of the panel.

Step 6 – Install the Cut-in Box

Push the wire through the punch out. Place the electrical cut-in box in the hole. Tighten the screws until the flaps on either side come into contact with the drywall. When fully tightened, it should be flush with the drywall.

Step 7 – Install the Bracket

Mount the bracket supplied with the smoke detector to the electrical cut-in box.

Step 8 – Connect the Wiring

Connect the wiring which came with the smoke detector to the electrical wires you installed. It will have a connector on one end and wires on the other end. The red wire will connect to the white wire you installed. The black will connect to the black. The yellow wire provided with the smoke detector is for adding multiple smoke detectors. Use a wire nut to close this wire off.

Step 9 – Install the Smoke Detector

Connect the wire connector attached to your wires to the connector on the back of the smoke detector. Mount the smoke detector and twist it until it latches.

Step 10 – Install the Circuit Breaker

Mount the new circuit breaker to the panel and restore power to the panel. Turn on the new breaker.

Step 11 – Test the Smoke Detector

Press the test button on the smoke detector. If it is functioning properly, it should set of a tone.

Finally, detach the smoke detector from the ceiling and install the 9V backup battery.