How to Install a Smoke Alarm in a Suspended Ceiling

Installing a smoke detector is one of the most important safety features you can install in your home or office. The simple battery operated device is inexpensive and efficient as long as the the battery is checked at least once a year. They are easy to install and as long as you can turn a screw driver, you should be able to install smoke detectors even in a suspended ceiling. Here is a simple trick for doing so.

Screw driver
Toggle bolts
Smoke detector (battery operated)
Drill

Instructions

- 1
  Take the small screws enclosed in the packaging for your new smoke detector. Use these to compare to the size of a toggle bolt you will want to replace them with. Your toggle bolt should be at least two inches long and the same width and type of thread as the enclosed screws.
- 2
  Remove the ceiling tile where you want to install the smoke detector from the ceiling. Hold the back of the mounting bracket against the front of the tile and mark where the screw holes should be. Drill them out with your electric drill and a drill bit the same size as the screw width.
- 3
  Place the back of the mounting bracket against the tile and screw the toggle bolt into the pre-drilled holes. Twist the toggle in place on the back side of the ceiling tile, making sure that the toggle opening is facing the tile. Tighten it until the mounting bracket is secure against the tile.
- 4
  Mount the rest of the smoke detector with the battery installed on the mounting bracket. This is done by lining up the tabs on the smoke detector with the gaps on the mounting bracket. Twist the smoke detector clockwise to make sure it locks into position.
- 5
  Test the device by holding the test button for 5 seconds to see if the alarm sounds. If all is well, replace the ceiling tile in the suspended ceiling.

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