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Stay safeguarded in your Chicago home with these smoke detector installation recommendations

January 27, 2025
Man installing smoke detector on ceiling of home

Did you buy an older home only to realize that it doesn’t have enough smoke detectors or is missing them altogether? Even more recently built dwellings might not have a sufficient amount or in the right locations. If you are planning to integrate these vital safety devices, follow our smoke detector installation guidelines for Chicago homes and learn why monitored fire alarms are best. 

Where to put your Chicago smoke detectors

Since becoming common at the end of the 1970s, smoke detectors have saved countless lives. Even with the clear benefit, many homes either don’t have an adequate number or the devices they have are non-functional. Curious how important they really are? Consider that the probability of perishing in a house fire is reduced by 60 percent when your property has working smoke alarms, according to the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA).

Follow these basic smoke detector installation recommendations when adding them to your Chicago home:

  • Install a smoke alarm on each floor of your home, including your cellar.
  • Place them in and on the outside of all bedrooms (and other sleeping quarters).
  • Hardwired units should only be installed by qualified electricians.
  • For the highest level of protection, connect your smoke detectors so that if one is triggered, they all sound.
  • Install them on ceilings or high on walls while steering clear of dead air spots at the corners or near the apex of a vaulted ceiling.
  • Keep them away from kitchens and no less than 10 feet from cooktops to prevent false alarms.
  • Always adhere to the manufacturer’s installation guidelines.

The majority of smoke detectors are functional for 5 years but don’t just assume they work. Test them every 30-60 days to verify proper function. 

Why are monitored smoke detectors a better idea?

Why not choose smoke detectors that incorporate into your home security system for improved safety? Monitored fire alarms give you the following benefits:

  • If an urgent event occurs, you and your monitoring specialists will receive a notification. The warning will be dispatched to your mobile device through your home security app.
  • Your smoke detector can initiate other smart sensors. To illustrate, you can power your HVAC system down to minimize the proliferation of flames and unlatch your smart locks to assist your departure.
  • Many contemporary smoke detectors feature photoelectric sensors for better protection. They can detect elevating heat levels before the arrival of smoke.

Some variations are combination units that shield your family by sensing both carbon monoxide and fire. You’ll appreciate this added functionality and the benefit of having an expert monitoring team looking out for you. Professional monitoring specialists can get emergency assistance to your home quicker.

Go a safer route with monitored smoke detector installation in Chicago from Vivint

Provide your loved ones the protection they should have with monitored smoke detectors in Chicago from Vivint. You’ll benefit from instant warnings, custom home automation, photoelectric sensing, and 24-7 support from trained professionals. Order your detectors today as part of a comprehensive home security package. Call (312) 626-4802 to get started.