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Stay safeguarded in your Tuscaloosa home with these smoke detector installation tips

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

Did you purchase an older home only to discover that it doesn’t have enough smoke detectors or none at all? Even new residences may not have an adequate amount or in the right places. If you need to add these vital safety components, abide by our smoke detector installation guidelines for Tuscaloosa homes and discover why monitored alarms are preferred for your protection. 

Where to install your Tuscaloosa smoke detectors

Since achieving common use in the late 1970s, smoke detection equipment has saved a multitude of lives. In the face of the clear benefit, many homes either don’t have an adequate amount or the components they have aren’t functional. Still debating if you really need them? You should know that the likelihood of dying in a residential fire is cut by 60 percent when you have working smoke alarms, per the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA).

Adhere to these basic smoke detector installation tips when placing them in your Tuscaloosa home:

  • Place a smoke detector on every level of your home, including your basement.
  • Place them inside and on the outside of every bedroom (and other sleeping quarters).
  • Call a licensed electrician for hardwired devices.
  • For the best protection, connect your smoke detectors so that if one is tripped, they all sound.
  • Place them high on walls or on ceilings but be sure to avoid dead air spots at the corners or near the apex of a vaulted ceiling.
  • Avoid false alarms by keeping them out of kitchens and no less than 10 feet from stovetops.
  • Always follow the manufacturer’s installation guidelines.

The bulk of smoke detectors are functional for 5 years but don’t take them for granted. Test them every 30-60 days to confirm proper performance. 

Why are monitored smoke detectors a better idea?

Why not opt for smoke detectors that connect into your home security system for improved safety? Monitored components offer the following perks:

  • You and your monitoring specialists will obtain immediate updates whenever a crisis strikes. The warning will be dispatched to your smartphone via your home security app.
  • Your fire alarm can trigger other smart sensors. For example, you can shut your cooling and heating system down to minimize the progression of flames and open your smart locks to facilitate your evacuation.
  • Many of the latest smoke detectors utilize photoelectric sensors for improved protection. They can sense climbing heat levels before smoke is even present.

Some variations are combo units that shield your loved ones by sensing both fire and carbon monoxide. You’ll appreciate the functionality and the value of having an expert monitoring staff looking out for you. Dedicated monitoring agents can get emergency assistance to your door more rapidly.

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

Better protect your home and family with monitored smoke detectors in Tuscaloosa from Vivint. You’ll enjoy round-the-clock support, immediate alerts, photoelectric sensing, and custom automation. Order smoke detectors today as part of a comprehensive home security package. Dial (205) 964-9849 to learn more.