UTC Fire & Security Americas Corporation Inc 801-IXT User Manual

Smoke and heat detector locations

Selecting a suitable location is critical to the operation of smoke alarms. Figure 5 shows some typical
floorplans with recommended smoke and heat detector locations. Use these location guidelines to optimize
performance and reduce the chance of false alarms:

•

Before mounting alarms, program (learn) them into memory and do a sensor test from the alarm’s
intended location to ensure good RF communication to the panel.

•

Locate the alarm in environmentally controlled areas where the temperature range is between 40 and
100°F (5 and 38°C) and the humidity is between 0 and 90% noncondensing.

•

Locate alarms away from ventilation sources that can prevent smoke from reaching the alarm.

•

Locate ceiling mounted alarms in the center of the room or hallway, at least 4 in. (10 cm) away from
any walls or partitions.

•

Locate wall mounted alarms so the top of the alarm is 4 to 12 in. (10 to 31 cm) below the ceiling.

•

In rooms with sloped, peaked, or gabled ceilings, locate alarms 3 ft. (0.9 m) down or away from the
highest point of the ceiling.

•

When mounting to suspended ceiling tile, the tile must be secured with the appropriate fasteners to
prevent tile removal.

Note:

Do not mount the alarm to the metal runners of suspended ceiling grids. The metal runners can draw the magnet’s field
away from the alarm’s reed switch and cause a false tamper alarm.

Figure 5. Smoke detector locations

Living room

Bedroom

Living room

Dining
room

Kitchen

Bedroom

TV room

Dining
room

Kitchen

Bedroom

Living room

Basement

Dining

room

Basement

Living

room

Hall

Bedroom

Recreation room

Hall

Bedroom

Required smoke detector

Heat detector

Optional smoke detector