How to Add a Smoke Detector
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How should I wire a new smoke detector to the existing smoke detectors? Wiring for a New Smoke Detector. |
Wiring for a New Smoke Detector
Electrical Question: How should I wire a new smoke detector to the existing smoke detectors?
My electrical wiring project involves Adding to the Wiring for a New Smoke Detector in the Attached Garage of a Old Home.
- I have a 35 year old home that was completely redone 5 years ago. The contractors installed a wired/linked smoke detector system according to local building codes at that time. The home is a ranch style and is very long. One end is the attached garage and the opposite end is the bedroom section. There is approximately 70 feet of living space between the two areas. I want to add a smoke detector in the garage since fires often start there and there is no detector located there. If a fire started in the garage, it would take a long time for the detectors in the house to begin alarming. Anyway, if I want to add a detector, should I just tap into one of the existing detectors and run a single 14/3 wire to the new detector? Or do I have to do some kind of loop with the new detector wire? Thank you for your help.
This electrical wiring question came from Spencer, a Homeowner in Fairfax, Virginia.
Additional Comments: I like it and I signed up for the electrical tips….thank you.
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical wiring question Spencer.
How to Add a New Smoke Detector
Application: Wiring a New Smoke Detector.
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced – Best performed by a Licensed Electrical Contractor, or Certified Electrician.
Electrical Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch Hand Tools, Voltage Tester, and appropriate Safety Gear.
Estimated Time: Depends on the personal level experience, ability to work with tools, install electrical circuit wiring, and the available access to the project area.
Electrical Safety: Identify the electrical power source to the Smoke Detector, turn it OFF and Tag with a Note before working with the electrical wiring.
Electrical Wiring Parts and Materials: Electrical parts and materials for the Smoke Detector should be approved for the specific project and compliant with local and national electrical codes.
Electrical Codes and Inspections: Installing or changing home electrical wiring should be done according to local and national electrical codes as adopted in Fairfax, Virginia. A permit and inspections may also be required.
Wiring for a New Smoke Detector
Installing a smoke detector in the garage is a smart idea, just be sure to keep it clean and keep insects and spiders away to prevent false alarms in the middle of the night.
Add Wiring for a New Smoke Detector
Yes Spenser, from one of the existing smoke detectors install a single 14/3 wire to the new smoke detector location. Most wired smoke detectors with battery backup are fully compatible where the wiring connections are made color to color. The red wire is typically the alarm signal wire.
See More about Wiring Smoke Detectors
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