Smoke Detector Installation Costs

Last Updated on December 29, 2023
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

Feeling at home also means feeling safe. A smoke detector contributes to this feeling. In the event of a fire, dangerous substances such as carbon monoxide are released, with the possibility of paralyzing, especially at night and if you do not smell or see anything. So, it’s a good idea to protect yourself and your family by installing smoke detectors. These will give you the time you need to put out the fire or leave the home.

How much does smoke detector installation cost?

Smoke detector installation costs will be affected by various factors such as the type of smoke detector, the way it is powered, and where it is located. For instance, ionization smoke detectors are cheaper than photoelectric smoke detectors. Also, battery-powered smoke detectors are more affordable than hardwired options. The costs will get higher if you place the smoke detector in a place where the installer needs to go up and down a ladder for the installation.

However, you should be prepared to pay around $55 for a smoke detector and almost $45 per unit for its installation, bringing the total to $100 per unit.

What is a smoke detector?

A smoke detector is a device with a sensor that has the role of generating an alarm signal if it detects traces of smoke. Thus, the signal is transmitted as part of a so-called “fire detection, warning, and signaling signal” to a control panel (commercial centers, residential, industrial buildings, etc.), or it can be converted into a light and audio signal at the local level. They can be connected both to the alarm center and to a smartphone, a PC, or a tablet, as it is most convenient for you.

Types of smoke detectors

Battery-powered smoke detectors

Battery-powered smoke alarms cannot be connected to the home’s electrical system. Instead, they work on batteries. The good part is that they do not require a complicated installation. The only problem is that they become inactive if the batteries run out. Since batteries account for approximately 25% of smoke detector failures, this is a potential risk you should be aware of.

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Wired smoke detectors

Wired smoke detectors are equipped with wires that connect them to the home’s electrical system. Most come with a backup battery to prevent the device from becoming inactive when the power goes out. Wired smoke detectors are an extremely safe option, as the chances of them becoming inactive are very small, but they require a little more installation knowledge than battery-operated sensors.

Multifunctional smoke detectors

Some smoke detectors do more than detect the early stage of a fire. Many of these include carbon monoxide detection – giving you double protection in one device. Multifunctional alarms can be powered by batteries, connected by cable, or intelligent, so the prices vary depending on the type and characteristics of each one.

Smart smoke detectors

Smart smoke and fire detectors are the piece de resistance at the moment. They communicate through applications and send alerts if an alarm sounds. Intelligent alarms communicate with each other so that you know exactly where the fire is coming from when an alarm is triggered. The only disadvantage is that smart devices are more expensive, but at the same time offer high security.

Photoelectric smoke detectors

Photoelectric sensors are better at detecting fires that produce a lot of smoke. These sensors use light to detect smoke, and then they will trigger the alarm.

Ionization smoke detectors

Ionization sensors are designed to recognize fast-burning fires, flames, and small amounts of smoke produced. They are equipped with two metal plates and a small amount of radioactive material to ionize the air. When the smoke passes through the device, the ionization is interrupted and the alarm is triggered.

Dual smoke detectors

Dual sensors include both photoelectric sensors and ionization sensors. These are considered to be the safest fire alarms because they detect both smoke, incipient fires, and fire as well.

What are the basic principles of smoke detector installation?

It is common for a smoke detector to be installed in the kitchen, but this can often be counterproductive as it will frequently be activated by smoke when you are cooking. It is best to install a smoke detector somewhere outside the kitchen, preferably between the kitchen and dining room, on the ceiling and centered, so that it can work properly.

How often should I replace a smoke detector?

Smoke detectors must be replaced every 10 years! Specialists are of the opinion that maintenance is important in the overall functionality of the device.

What maintenance does a smoke detector require?

Fire detection systems require proper maintenance to ensure proper operation. Optical smoke detectors require more care than the rest, as the dual-optical chamber must be kept clean at all times.

It is important to clean your smoke detectors thoroughly as they can be damaged by the accumulation of dust, moisture, and dirt over time. If they become excessively dirty, the alarm may be triggered unnecessarily. Battery maintenance is also another important factor. To check batteries, test buttons are often included on devices to make it easier to verify the condition of the battery.

Important things to consider

Do not place smoke detectors near a door, window, or air conditioner. The air currents in these areas can disperse the smoke, without triggering the detector, except when it is too late to evacuate the house.

Do not install smoke detectors in a bathroom or kitchen. Steam from the shower or oven will cause false alarms.