Remove your smoke detector and mounting bracket from the packaging. Open the battery compartment on the smoke detector and insert the battery. Depending on the model, your smoke detector may use 9V, AA or AAA batteries. Most smoke detectors come with batteries. Purchase the correct batteries if your unit did not come with any.
Press and hold the "Test" or "Reset" button on your smoke detector for at least five seconds. If you hear the alarm go off, your smoke detector is ready to go.
Remove the screws that came with your smoke detector. Select the location where you want to install the smoke detector. Select a spot that is at least 3 feet away from air vents, air conditioners and heaters. The location should also be at least 3 feet away from bathrooms and the kitchen.
Place the mounting bracket on the ceiling. Insert one screw into one of the holes and drill it into the ceiling. Use a screwdriver if you do not have a drill. Insert another screw into the other hole and drill it into the ceiling. If the mounting bracket has more than two holes, attach the additional screws. Mounting the bracket may vary slightly with different smoke detectors, so refer to your device's user manual.
Mount the bracket on a high wall if you do not want to mount it to your ceiling. Measure a distance no closer than 4 inches nor farther than 12 inches from the ceiling. Mark the spot you measured and install the mounting bracket.
Attach the smoke detector to the mounting bracket. Refer to your user guide if you are not sure how to do so.