From This Old House.
In this video, Master electrician Heath Eastman helps a homeowner upgrade outdated battery-operated smoke detectors to a safer hardwired, interconnected system.
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Smoke alarms are one of the most important safety devices in any home. While older battery-powered detectors can still provide protection, many homes today are upgrading to hardwired, interconnected smoke alarm systems that provide faster, more reliable warnings.
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Where to find it?
Codes vary by location. Check with your local fire department to learn the local requirements, including questions about which detectors to purchase and where to install them.
Smoke Detectors Installed
Combo Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarms = BRK SMC0110V-AC [https://bit.ly/4rNOuHP] – Heath installed at least one on every floor, and one installed within 10 feet of each bedroom door.
Smoke Detectors = BRK SM110V-AC [https://bit.ly/47imaGo] – Heath installed smoke detectors inside the bedrooms, at the base of each stairway, and made sure one was installed within 1,200 square feet of living space for each floor level.
Cut Holes for Detectors
Tape Measure [https://homedepot.sjv.io/LKWkyj]
Nonconductive Fiberglass 4 ft. Ladder [https://homedepot.sjv.io/xL1BGv]
Safety Glasses [https://homedepot.sjv.io/4GXnQM]
Hearing Protection [https://homedepot.sjv.io/baWkLm]
Insulation Supports [https://homedepot.sjv.io/PO5oDQ] – Heath used as a feeler bit to make sure the area above the ceiling was free of obstructions before drilling.
Drill [https://homedepot.sjv.io/xLRyQk]
3-¾" Hole Saw [https://homedepot.sjv.io/o4rA9m]
Arbor Bit with Pilot Drill Bit [https://homedepot.sjv.io/6y4vZG]
Dust Bowl for Hole Saw [https://homedepot.sjv.io/RGezVb]
Plastic 1-Gang 3-¾" Round Old Work Bracket Box [https://homedepot.sjv.io/QjkB13]
Screwdrivers [https://homedepot.sjv.io/N9maJ7]
Wire Detectors
Fiberglass Fish Stick [https://homedepot.sjv.io/9LKN3W]
Electrical Tape [https://homedepot.sjv.io/OePXJQ]
14/2 NM-B Wire [https://homedepot.sjv.io/rEEQ1y] – to run from power source to the first detector
14/3 NM-B Copper Building Wire [https://homedepot.sjv.io/e1mDGr] – to run wire between all detectors
Universal Wire Stripping Tool [https://homedepot.sjv.io/K0QVAn]
Linesman Pliers [https://homedepot.sjv.io/kOx5Kd]
Diagonal Cutting Pliers [https://homedepot.sjv.io/GKLayL]
Tan/Red Wire Connectors [https://amzn.to/4qJj8To]
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How to Replace Battery Smoke Detectors | Ask This Old House
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