How To Set A Wireless Smoke Detector

Ensuring your household safety is dependent upon knowing how to properly set a wireless smoke detector. These devices are integrated with intercommunication that allows one alarm, when detecting a danger, to set off all others in the same wireless configuration. Making sure all settings, batteries and connections are correct will protect you and your family. Your wireless communication devices can also include a carbon monoxide gas detector.

Create Wireless Communication Settings

Locate the multi-position switching on the back of each unit. A typical configuration will be an 8-switch set up. Create a random switch alignment so yours is unique to any nearby system, such as a neighbor’s. Do NOT use the default switch alignment pre-set on the devices. Create a unique ID by registering it on one device first. Repeat the same switch sequencing for all additional devices. You can set the switches using the tip of a pencil to move each to the required placement. Power each unit by placing the batteries in each (See Below). Once powered, each device will recognize the ID set. You CANNOT re-set the ID when the unit is powered. If changes need to be made, for example, you notice one device has not had the ID set properly, you must remove the batteries for at least 30 seconds, re-set the switches and then re-install the batteries. Press the test button on each, holding it down for a minimum of 5 seconds. If all the alarms do not sound, check with the enclosed troubleshooting instructions.

Alarm Sounds

In the event your wireless smoke detector system sounds an alarm with no smoke or fire present, check to make sure no test buttons have been activated. More than likely the system is being interfered with by a nearby wireless system with a communication ID that is either the same or similar to yours. In this case, repeat the process above, changing the ID for your wireless smoke detector communication.

Battery Installation

Most wireless smoke alarms are battery operated. Typical power requirements call for three “AA” batteries. Make sure to use high-quality “AA” batteries. Before installing a unit, remove the mounting plate to locate the battery placement. It can be either an open compartment or have a door shielding the batteries. Install each battery according to the battery polarity indicated at the bottom of the compartment. Most devices will resist improper placement so if it appears to be a difficult task, check to see that the alignment of the polarity is correct. The alarm will not connect to the mounting plate unless all batteries are installed.

Safety Installation

A popular feature for many wireless detection systems is a “tamper” resistant installation. This is a child-proof setting that prevents removal of the fixture. To activate the feature, break off the posts attached to the tamper resistant tabs that will engage the mounting bracket locks. You will hear the locks “snap” into place when you rotate the device. To remove the locking mechanism, press down on the tabs and rotate the device to clear the locks.