How to Install a Smoke Detector Without Drilling (6 Steps)
Content
- 6 Step Guide to Installing a Smoke Detector Without Drilling
- How many smoke detectors do you need?
- Where to put them?
- A Few Other Methods You Can Try
- F.A.Q.
In this article, you will learn how to install a smoke detector without drilling holes.
Sometimes you find yourself in a situation where you cannot find an electric drill. In this case, you will need an alternative way to install the smoke detector. Here is a simple and easy method you can try at home to install a smoke alarm without a drill.
In general, to install a smoke detector without a drill:
- Buy a suitable smoke detector.
- Buy a pack of heavy duty Velcro brand stickers.
- Attach one coin to the ceiling.
- Get another coin and attach it to the smoke detector.
- Now connect two coins together to fix the smoke detector to the ceiling.
- Check the smoke detector.
You will find more detailed steps in the guide below.
6 Step Guide to Installing a Smoke Detector Without Drilling
In this section, I will explain the smoke detector installation process in detail. You don't need any tools for this process. All you need is a fire alarm and a set of Velcro coins.
Quick-Tip: This method is simple and will not damage your ceiling. Therefore, it is most suitable for those who live in a rented house or apartment.
Step 1 - Buy the Right Smoke Detector
First of all, buy the right smoke detector for your home. There are many different types of smoke detectors on the market. Here I will show you the most popular ones.
Ionized smoke detectors
This type of fire alarm uses a small amount of radioactive materials. These materials can ionize air molecules into negative and positive air molecules. It will then create a small electrical current.
When smoke combines with this ionized air, it reduces the electrical current and triggers a smoke alarm. This is a simple but very effective smoke detection method. As a rule, ionization detectors are much cheaper than other smoke detectors.
Photoelectric smoke detectors
This type of smoke detector is equipped with a photosensitive element and can detect any light source. When smoke enters the smoke alarm, the light begins to scatter. Due to this change, smoke alarms will be disabled.
Ionized and photoelectric smoke detectors
These smoke detectors come with dual sensors; ionization sensor and photoelectric sensor. Hence, they are the best protection for the home. However, due to their nature, these detectors are expensive.
Quick-Tip: In addition to the above three types, two more models can be found on the market; intelligent multicriteria and voice smoke detectors.
I highly recommend doing your research before purchasing a smoke detector for your home. This will help you choose the best smoke detector.
Step 2 – Buy a strong stick with Velcro on coins
Then buy a pack of Velcro brand heavy duty coin wands. If you are not familiar with this sticky coin, here is a simple explanation.
These coins are made up of two parts; hook and loop. Each of these coins has one side with glue and the other side with a hook. When we go through steps 3 and 4, you will get a better idea of them.
Quick-Tip: The side with the glue is known as the loop and the other side is known as the hook.
Step 3 - Attach the coin to the ceiling
Now select a suitable spot on the ceiling for the smoke detector. Be sure to select a location where smoke can quickly reach the detector. With a shorter response time, the damage will be minimal.
Then take a Velcro coin and remove the cover that protects the adhesive side. Attach the coin to the ceiling.
Step 4 - Attach the Coin to the Smoke Detector
Then take another coin and remove the cover.
Attach it to a smoke detector. Don't forget to connect the coin to the middle of the smoke detector.
Step 5 - Hook two coins
If you follow steps 3 and 4 correctly, both sides with the hook (both coins) should be visible. You can easily connect two coins with these hooks. Place the hook that holds the smoke detector on the other hook located on the ceiling.
By doing this, you automatically connect the smoke detector to the ceiling.
Step 6 - Check the smoke alarm
Finally, test the smoke detector with the test button. If you don't know how to test your smoke detector, follow these steps.
- Locate the test button on the smoke detector. It should be on the side or bottom.
- Press and hold the button for a few seconds. The alarm will start.
- Some smoke detectors turn off the alarm after a few seconds. And some don't. If so, press the test button again.
The 6 step guide above is the quickest and easiest way to install a smoke detector without drilling holes.
How many smoke detectors do you need?
The number of smoke detectors depends entirely on the layout of your home. However, if in doubt, remember that a fire can start at any moment. Thus, the more smoke detectors, the higher your protection.
Where to put them?
If you plan to provide a minimum level of protection for your home, you should have at least one smoke detector. But for those looking for maximum protection, install a smoke detector in every room of your house (except the bathroom).
A Few Other Methods You Can Try
In addition to the above method, there are three methods for installing a smoke detector without drilling.
- Use mounting tape
- Use a magnetic holder
- Use a mounting plate
F.A.Q.
Where should a smoke detector not be placed?
Some places in your home are not suitable for placing a smoke detector. Here is the list.
-Bathrooms
- next to the fans
– Sliding glass doors
- Windows
– Ceiling corners
– Near ventilation, register and feed grates
– In the furnace and next to water heaters
– Near dishwashers
What should be the distance between smoke detectors?
This is the question most people ask. But they never get a clear answer. According to the National Fire Protection Association, a smoke alarm can cover a radius of 21 feet, which is approximately 1385 square feet. In addition, the maximum distance between two smoke detectors must be 30 feet. (1)
However, if you have a hallway that is longer than 30 feet, you should install two smoke detectors at both ends of the hallway.
Where to place a smoke detector in the bedroom?
If you are concerned about protecting your family, install one smoke detector in the bedroom and one outside. So you can hear the alarm even when you are sleeping. (2)
Can smoke detectors be mounted on a wall?
Yes, you can place the smoke detector on the wall. However, before doing this, read the instructions. Most smoke detectors are suitable for wall and ceiling mounting. But some do not have the same qualities. So read the instructions first.
If you are placing the smoke detector on a wall, be sure to mount it higher. Otherwise, you may accidentally damage the smoke detector. Or your kids can achieve it.
Quick-Tip: Wall mounting a smoke detector in the kitchen is not a good idea. The alarm clock may go off accidentally due to steam or for another reason.
Take a look at some of our articles below.
- How to drill out a broken bolt
- Rope sling with durability
- How to connect smoke detectors in parallel
Recommendations
(1) National Fire Protection Association - https://www.igi-global.com/dictionary/nfpa-the-national-fire-protection-association/100689
(2) family protection - https://blogs.cdc.gov/publichealthmatters/2014/09/
3-easy-steps-to-protect-your-family/
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