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Stay protected in your Missoula home with these smoke detector installation guidelines

January 27, 2025
Man placing a smoke detector inside a home

Did you purchase an older property only to discover that it lacks sufficient smoke detectors or doesn’t use them at all? Even new dwellings may not have enough or in the proper spots. If you are getting ready to integrate these crucial safety components, abide by our smoke detector installation tips for Missoula homes and see why monitored detectors are ideal for your protection. 

Where to place your Missoula smoke detectors

Since becoming widespread in the late 1970s, smoke detection devices have saved countless lives. Despite the obvious benefit, many residences either don’t have an adequate amount or the components they have aren’t functional. Wondering if you really should have them? You should know that the chance of dying in a house fire is cut by 60 percent when your home has operational fire alarms, per the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA).

Follow these straightforward smoke detector installation guidelines when installing them in your Missoula home:

  • Install a fire alarm on each floor of your dwelling, including your lower level.
  • Place them inside and on the outside of every bedroom (and other sleeping quarters).
  • Hardwired models should only be installed by licensed electricians.
  • For the best protection, link your smoke detectors so that if one is triggered, they all go off.
  • Put them on ceilings or near the top of walls but be sure to avoid dead air spots in corners or near the peak of a vaulted ceiling.
  • Keep them out of kitchens and at least 10 feet from stovetops to circumvent false alarms.
  • Always adhere to the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

The bulk of smoke detectors are operational for 5 years but don’t assume they’re working. Test them monthly to verify proper function. 

Why are monitored smoke detectors the better choice?

Why not opt for smoke detectors that integrate into your home’s security system for greater safety? Monitored fire alarms offer the following perks:

  • Whenever a crisis occurs, you and your monitoring agents will get an alert. The communication will be sent to your mobile device via your home security app.
  • Your smoke detector can activate other smart sensors. For example, you can power your heating and cooling system down to decrease the progression of flames and release your smart locks to assist your evacuation.
  • Many modern smoke detectors utilize photoelectric sensors for superior safeguarding. They can sense rising heat levels before smoke is even present.

Some models are dual-purpose units that shield your loved ones by detecting both fire and carbon monoxide. You’ll appreciate this multifunctional approach and the advantage of having an expert monitoring team looking out for you. Dedicated monitoring specialists can get emergency services to your house quicker.

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

Give your home’s occupants the protection they should have with monitored smoke detectors in Missoula from Vivint. You’ll benefit from immediate notifications, custom home automation, photoelectric sensing, and 24-7 assistance from trained specialists. Order yours today as part of a complete home security package. Contact us at (406) 926-0627 to get started.