Minimum Smoke Detector Requirements for New Homes

Ionic Smoke Alarms

• There are two different types of smoke detectors to choose from. Ionic smoke detectors are the most common because they react quickly to flaming fires and to smoke and are less expensive than photoelectric smoke detectors.

Photoelectric Smoke Alarms

• Photoelectric detectors are slightly more expensive and are more likely to react to fires that are smoldering than to fires and smoke that come about as a result of cooking. If you are purchasing more than one new alarm, your best bet is to purchase a combination of each type.

Required Number Of Smoke Alarms

• According to the National Fire Prevention Association and most building and housing codes, all new and existing homes are required to have a working smoke detector on each floor, as well as one outside of each bedroom. For new homes in particular, alarms that are hardwired must be interconnected, and smoke detectors are also required near living areas if they are placed on floors that do not contain bedrooms.

Placement

• The NFPA states that due to the fact that deadly gasses and smoke rise, it is important to place smoke alarms no more than 4 inches from the ceiling and at the highest point on the wall. Because hot air rises quickly, smoke detectors that are placed too low may not detect fire, smoke or gasses on time.

Smoke Alarm Maintenance

• It is a good idea to test your smoke detectors once a month by pushing the "test" button. If the test function doesn't work properly, you should replace your alarm right away. Always make sure that the batteries in your smoke detectors are current and keep in mind that the requirements for new homes state that all hardwired smoke detectors must also be connected to the electrical supply of the home as a back-up in case of battery failure.