Where should a smoke detector be placed?

You’ve just purchased smoke detectors — do you know exactly where they should be installed? And are you aware of which environmental conditions in your home you must consider so that your smoke detector works properly? In many cases, smoke detectors are not installed correctly. As a result, many still do not receive timely alerts in emergencies. In this article, we explain where and when smoke detectors should be mounted — and where they should not be placed.

How to install a smoke detector?

Once you have purchased a smoke detector, it is important to know where to mount it. Equally important is being aware of the environmental factors in your home so that the detector functions reliably.

Ceiling

Place a smoke detector in the center of the ceiling, at least 30 cm away from walls. Also, it's important that the detector is 1–3 meters away from any potential smoke source (e.g. fireplace).

Wall

If mounting on the ceiling is not possible, mount the smoke detector on a wall. Install it 15 to 80 cm below the ceiling, preferably above doors or windows. Again, it should be 1–3 meters away from a potential smoke source.

Sloped ceiling

In rooms with a sloped ceiling, place the smoke detector on the higher side of the slope. The same 1–3 m distance from a potential smoke source applies, and it should be above the level of doors or windows.

Bedroom and living room

It is also recommended to install smoke detectors in rooms where you or your family spend more time — e.g. in the bedroom or living room.

Other rooms

In all other rooms, the detector should be placed at the highest point of the room, since smoke rises upward.

Where you should not install a smoke detector

The locations not suitable for smoke detector installation are as important as the correct placement. If any of the following environmental conditions are present in your home, you should relocate the detector:

moist or humid areas
dusty, dirty or greasy spaces
behind curtains or furniture
near fireplaces, air conditioners or fans
above sinks or over the stove

In kitchen areas, consider using a heat sensor instead of a smoke detector.

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