Thread: smoke detector installed next to light

Anyone see any concerns here other than with the fool who installed it this way. WHat problems canthis promote?

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That should not affect the way the smoke detector operates in any significant way.

Stupid? Sure, but it's not like it is a beam or something else blocking the path of the smoke.

All the manufacturer's I'm aware of recommend against the installation of smoke alarms closer than 12" to "fluorescent lights", and since CFs are increasingly being installed in place of incandescent bulbs...

The example below is from the manual for FirstAlert brand model SA87B / SA97B alarms, but all instructions have a similar list of locatons to avoid:

I agree it is a dumb location ...
Other than that, you could check your local Code. In Chicago, the smoke detector has to be located within 12" of the wall/ceiling intersection whether it is on the wall or on the ceiling

Markus,

Do you have a link to the Chicago requirements?

Thanks

Michael, in the City's infinite wisdom there is no public link to look up the Chicago Code. You have to buy the books from one City publisher. I will look up the Code sections tomorrow and post to you along with the various violation numbers.
Markus

Markus,

Looks like they are now on-line - subscription only, of course....

Chicago Codes

Yes, I forgot about the subscription deal. I prefer the book. Till tomorrow.

Michael, here's the Code info. If you decide to cite the Code, remember that each section pertains to different areas.

07 Code page 126; 13-64-120 to 160 pertains to new construction
07 Code page 829 13-196-100 to 160 pertains to minimum requirements for existing buildings.
Violation #'s 197019, 029, 039, 049, (059, 069, 079)

Looks to be the same color as the walls & ceiling. Did someone paint it ?

Jerome, it hit me last night. Did you check if the unit is battery operated? I suspect they hardwired it to the light. This could create additional problems with the installation.

Interresting concept. So......the unit is only AC powered when the light is on.

Kind of reminds me of high school electronics class. Had a freind asked me to help him since the radio he put in his school bus wouldn't work. Turns out it did work.............every time the turn signal blinked.

Originally Posted by Jim Zborowski

Turns out it did work.............every time the turn signal blinked.

Jim,

That would definitely be called an 'intermittent' problem.