How to Install a Battery-Operated Smoke Alarm

At Kidde, we recommend having smoke alarms on every level of your home, in every bedroom, and outside of each sleeping area. Be sure to check the laws where you live for specific requirements.

Choosing Locations for Your Smoke Alarms

First, choose locations for your smoke alarms. The ceiling is the best place since smoke rises and it allows the alarm to be centrally located in the room. If you put it on a wall instead, it's best to use an inside wall. For more information on placement, check out Placement of Smoke Alarms.

Installing the Smoke Alarm

Once you've decided where you want the alarm to go, here's how you get it in place:

Mounting Base

Smoke alarms come with a mounting base that has screw holes to allow you to fasten the base in your chosen location. Select a drill bit slightly smaller than the size of the included wall anchors to ensure a snug fit.

Marking and Drilling Holes

Use the base to help mark where the screw holes will go, then drill the holes in the marked placements.

Inserting Screw Anchors

Using a hammer, tap the plastic screw anchors provided into the drilled holes.

Attaching the Mounting Base

Drive the screws partially into the anchors and line up the mounting base with the screws.

Placing the Smoke Alarm

Place the smoke alarm into position and twist it in, using the screwdriver to tighten.

Inserting Batteries

Don't forget to put in the batteries!

Maintaining Your Smoke Alarms

Now that your smoke alarms are in place, be sure to properly maintain them:

• Test your alarms once a month.
• Change the batteries twice a year.
• Replace the alarms when they've reached their expiration date.
• Clean the alarms on a regular basis, making sure to go around the sides and the back of the unit.

Need Further Assistance?

If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to contact our customer care team.

They are available to help you with any concerns or inquiries you may have. Reach out to us for support, and we'll be happy to assist you!