How to Install Smoke Detectors on the Wall or Ceiling

eHow may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Learn more about our affiliate and product review process here.

Things You'll Need

  • Smoke detector kit

  • Electric drill

  • 1/4-inch drill bit

  • Driver bit

  • Pencil

Smoke detectors are an essential safety feature.

Smoke detectors are an essential safety feature to have in any home. For optimum safety, you should install smoke detectors in every room and in every hallway. There is a plethora of models to choose from, and most are under $10, as of 2010. After you purchase a smoke detector, installation is the next step. All smoke detectors install in a similar fashion. Even the inexperienced can install a smoke detector in less than half an hour.

Advertisement

Step 1

Determine a location for the smoke detector. Most are installed on the ceiling in the middle of the room. But you can install a smoke detector above the doorway on the wall.

Video of the Day

Step 2

Hold the base of the smoke detector on the spot chosen for the installation. Make marks on the ceiling or wall with a pencil where the screw holes are located on the detector's base.

Advertisement

Step 3

Drill a hole on each pencil mark using an electric drill with a 1/4-inch drill bit. Ensure the holes are drilled at a 90-degree angle to the surface of the wall or ceiling.

Step 4

Insert the anchors that came with the smoke detector into the holes that you drilled. Ensure the anchors are flush with surface of the wall or ceiling.

Advertisement

Step 5

Place the smoke detector base up to the surface and line up the holes in the ceiling or wall with the holes in the base. Insert the screws through the base and into the wall anchors. Tighten the screws using an electric drill with a driver bit.

Step 6

Attach the smoke detector head to the base by placing it in the center of the base and twisting it until it locks in place.

Advertisement

Video of the Day

Report an Issue

screenshot of the current page

Screenshot loading...