Why interconnected, hardwired alarms
Interconnection means a fire detected in the basement sounds the alarm in upstairs bedrooms too. Hardwired alarms with battery backup don't rely only on batteries, and many can be interconnected with wiring or wireless modules.
Smoke alarms don't last forever — manufacturers typically recommend replacement about every 10 years. Check the date on the back of each alarm.
What the work typically involves
Review placement
Identify every bedroom, sleeping-area hallway and level needing an alarm.
Plan wiring
Extend circuits and interconnect wiring or use listed wireless interconnects.
Install alarms
Mount alarms and connect to power and interconnect.
Test the system
Test each alarm and confirm all units sound together.
Common reasons homeowners call
- Alarms reaching their replacement date
- Chirping hardwired alarms
- Adding bedrooms or finishing a basement
- Home sale or insurance requirements
- Adding CO protection
Signs your smoke alarms need attention
- Alarms older than 10 years
- Yellowed alarm housings
- Chirping even after battery replacement
- Alarms that don't sound together
- No alarms in bedrooms
Safety considerations
Test monthly. Test smoke alarms monthly. Never remove or disconnect an alarm because of nuisance alarms — relocate or replace it instead.
What an electrician will check
- Placement in bedrooms, hallways and each level
- Interconnection
- Alarm age and type
- Circuit and connector compatibility
- Distance from kitchens and bathrooms to reduce nuisance alarms
Related electrical problems
Related residential services
Carbon Monoxide Detector Installation
Hardwired carbon monoxide alarms for homes with gas appliances, fireplaces, attached garages or generators.
Electrical Inspection
Whole-home electrical safety inspections for older homes, home purchases, renovations and insurance questions.
Surge Protection
Whole-house surge protectors at the panel plus point-of-use protection for electronics and appliances.
Electrical Remodeling
Electrical planning and wiring for kitchen, bathroom, basement and whole-home remodels.
Frequently asked questions
Most manufacturers recommend replacing smoke alarms about every 10 years. The manufacture date is printed on the alarm.
Common causes are a low backup battery, an alarm reaching end of life, or dust. If a new battery doesn't stop it, the alarm may need replacement.
Usually not. Interconnected alarms generally need to be compatible models from the same manufacturer.