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How to install a smoke alarm

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Project Overview

Learn how simple it can be to install a smoke alarm by yourself. We show you where to install your alarm and how to attach it to the ceiling. We also explain what to do when you’re screwing directly into plaster. Plus you will see how to make sure the alarm is working properly once it’s installed.

Continue to step-by-step instructions

Step by Step Instructions

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1 Mark up your drill points on the ceiling

2 Drill screw holes into the ceiling

3 Mount the alarm on the ceiling

Step 1. Mark up your drill points on the ceiling

To work properly, smoke alarms should be installed on the ceiling at least 300mm from the nearest wall. Measure and mark that distance on your ceiling and then lay the base of the smoke alarm up against the mark. Use the baseplate bracket as a template to mark up your drill points on the ceiling.

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Step 2. Drill screw holes into the ceiling

Next, drill your holes into the ceiling. Most ceilings are made of plaster covering a timber frame. If you have to drill straight into the plaster, you need to reinforce the drill holes with some plasterboard anchors before you drive in your screws.

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Step 3. Mount the alarm on the ceiling

Now, screw the baseplate onto the ceiling. Make sure you are standing safely on the floor before putting the battery into your smoke alarm. Then fix the alarm back into the bracket on the ceiling. While you are up there, press the test button on the alarm to make sure it’s working.

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