How to Disconnect a Smoke Detector in the House
Although it is possible to keep the vents clean on a smoke detector, it sometimes is necessary to disconnect the smoke detector for thorough cleaning or possible replacement. Disconnecting smoke detectors in your home often involves some electrical work. This is because many smoke detectors today connect to the house wiring. This provides two separate sources of power for the smoke detector for better peace of mind. When changing smoke detectors, it might also be necessary to remove the existing smoke detector wires completely. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Turn the circuit breaker to the smoke detectors to the “Off” position. Most smoke detectors have a green light-emitting diode (LED) light that turns red or completely off when you disconnect the power.
-
2
Place a stepladder or stool under the smoke detector. Grasp the side of the smoke detector and twist it counterclockwise. This releases the smoke detector from the mounting plate.
-
-
3
Lower the smoke detector until you see the wire connector on the top of the unit. Some connectors have push tabs on the side, while most are the simple snap-in type.
-
4
Grab the side of the wire connector with your fingers and pull it away from the smoke detector. Once you disconnect the smoke detector, take the battery out of the unit. There is a battery door that either slides open or releases with a finger push.
-
5
Twist the wire caps joining the smoke detector adapter wires to the house wires counterclockwise. The adapter wires are the wires connecting to the wire connector you removed from the smoke detector. Once you remove the adapter wires from the house wires, twist the wire caps over the ends of the house wires.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Some smoke detectors are not wired into your home and simply twist off the mounting plate.
Follow directions on your new smoke detectors for wiring them to your home.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Polka Dot/Getty Images
