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Stay safe in your Columbia home with these smoke detector installation guidelines

January 27, 2025
Man installing smoke detector inside a home

Did you buy an older home only to realize that it lacks sufficient smoke detectors or doesn’t have them whatsoever? Even newer homes may not have enough or in the recommend spots. If you are getting ready to integrate these essential safety elements, abide by our smoke detector installation recommendations for Columbia homes and learn why monitored fire alarms are best. 

Where to place your Columbia smoke detectors

Since becoming widespread at the end of the 1970s, smoke detectors have saved countless lives. Despite the clear benefit, many properties either don’t have enough or the components they have don’t work. Curious how essential they really are? You should consider that the likelihood of perishing in a house fire is reduced by 60 percent when you have operational smoke alarms, as documented by the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA).

Adhere to these simple smoke detector installation tips when placing them in your Columbia home:

  • Place a fire alarm on each level of your residence, including your cellar.
  • Place them in and on the outside of each bedroom (and other sleeping areas).
  • Hardwired devices should only be connected by licensed electricians.
  • For the highest level of protection, bridge your smoke detectors so that if one is triggered, they all beep.
  • Install them on ceilings or near the top of walls but be sure to steer clear of dead air spots in corners or near the tip of a vaulted ceiling.
  • Keep them out of kitchens and a minimum of 10 feet from cooktops to circumvent false alarms.
  • Always follow the manufacturer’s installation guidelines.

The majority of smoke detectors last around 5 years but don’t assume they’re working. Test them monthly to ensure proper performance. 

Why are monitored smoke detectors the better choice?

Why not select smoke detectors that connect into your home’s security system for enhanced safety? Monitored components provide the following perks:

  • You and your monitoring team will receive instant updates whenever a fire strikes. The alert will be sent to your smartphone through your home security app.
  • Your fire alarm can trigger other smart sensors. To illustrate, you can shut your cooling and heating system down to minimize the proliferation of flames and release your smart locks to aid your departure.
  • Many modern smoke detectors use photoelectric sensors for superior safeguarding. They can sense rising heat levels before smoke even arrives.

Some devices are dual-purpose units that shield your loved ones by sensing both fire and carbon monoxide. You’ll appreciate the functionality and the benefit of having a skilled monitoring team looking out for you. Professional monitoring specialists can get emergency assistance to your house more rapidly.

Better protect your family with monitored smoke detector installation in Columbia from Vivint

Get your home’s occupants the protection they need with monitored smoke detectors in Columbia from Vivint. You’ll gain access to instant warnings, custom home automation, photoelectric sensing, and 24-hour assistance from trained agents. Order your detectors today as part of a comprehensive home security package. Dial (803) 921-0946 to learn more.