How much do people charge to replace smoke detectors?

Author: Ms. Kaya Emmerich Sr.  |  Last update: Monday, February 9, 2026

The national average cost for installing a smoke detector is between $70 and $150, with most people paying around $112 to install a dual hardwired detector. At the low end of the spectrum, you pay around $44 for a battery-operated ionization detector.

How much should I charge to replace a smoke detector?

Smoke detector installation costs $70 to $150 for most homeowners, and the average cost is $115. A pro can give you more specifics based on the number of smoke detectors you need, their quality, and where they're at in your home.

Will the fire department replace smoke detectors for free?

How to Get Your Smoke Detectors Inspected Here's something else you may not know: Your local fire department will probably come out to your house to inspect your smoke detectors. Some will even change the batteries or replace faulty smoke detectors for you, at no additional charge.

Do I need an electrician to replace hardwired smoke detectors?

Can I install a hardwired smoke detector myself? While it is technically possible, it is not recommended. Working with your home's electrical system can be dangerous and complex, best left to a qualified electrician.

Who to call to replace smoke detectors?

Only qualified electricians should install hardwired smoke alarms.

How Much Does It Cost To Replace Smoke Detectors? - SecurityFirstCorp.com

Can a handyman replace smoke detectors?

Handyman are trained in smoke detector installation and repair and know local fire and building codes to ensure the job is done correctly. Don't risk your safety with DIY smoke detector services.

Can you replace a smoke detector yourself?

Yes, you can replace your fire alarm yourself if your existing alarm has an easi-fit base, which means there is no need to remove or re-wire the baseplate. Replacing fire alarms is an easy process that is safe to carry out by yourself.

How often should wired smoke detectors be replaced?

Maintain your alarms

Because alarm sensors wear out, replace each alarm at least every 10 years. Also, alarms have labels showing when they were made. If you don't see a label, the alarm is old and must be replaced. Dust and cobwebs make it harder for alarms to detect smoke.

Who changes out smoke detectors?

If you have a battery-operated smoke detector, your local fire department can change the batteries or help you replace the detector—just make sure you call the non-emergency number. In any case, do not let this project go unresolved, as it could turn into a huge safety issue.

Can I change the smoke alarm myself?

Safety. Trying to replace your smoke alarm yourself can be dangerous. Electricians have the necessary tools and equipment to safely replace your smoke alarm. They also know what to do in the event that something goes wrong.

Is a beeping smoke detector an emergency?

What Does a Beeping Fire Alarm Mean? Unless there is some kind of smoke or fire emergency, a smoke alarm beeping every 30 seconds signifies that it is low battery. Sometimes though, other environmental factors can cause the alarm to beep more than normal.

What is the best smoke detector?

We continue to recommend the Google Nest Protect as the best choice for most people. It sends speedy alerts of smoke or carbon monoxide to your phone. A voice warning precedes the siren, so you can stop it from sounding if you know it's a false alarm (burnt toast again?).

How many lives do smoke detectors save a year?

Working smoke alarms save lives. More than 2,200 people die each year because of unintentional home fires. Almost two-thirds of these fire deaths occur in homes with no smoke alarms or with smoke alarms that don't work. A smoke alarm's warning can cut the risk of dying from a fire in your home by almost half.

How much to install wired smoke alarms?

£30 - £80 per alarm for the installation of a battery-powered fire alarm. £50 - £150 per smoke alarm for the installation of a mains-powered fire alarm. £80 - £100 per alarm for the installation of a battery-powered smart smoke alarm. £100 - £250 per alarm for the installation of a mains-powered smart smoke alarm.

Why are fire alarms so expensive?

Factors Influencing the Cost

More advanced systems, such as integrated fire alarms that include smoke, heat, and carbon monoxide detection, typically have a higher price tag due to their comprehensive protection.

What is the average lifespan of a smoke detector?

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, most alarms have a life span of 8-10 years. After this time, the entire unit should be replaced. Most alarms have the date of manufacture inside the unit. If you cannot find the date, replace it.

How much to charge to install a smoke detector?

The national average cost for installing a smoke detector is between $70 and $150, with most people paying around $112 to install a dual hardwired detector. At the low end of the spectrum, you pay around $44 for a battery-operated ionization detector.

Do I need an electrician to replace a smoke detector?

If you find it's about time to replace your smoke alarm, you are probably asking yourself “Do I need an electrician to replace hardwired smoke detectors?” The answer is yes, as handling electrical circuits can be risky without proper knowledge.

Who can fit new smoke alarms?

If you choose to have a mains-powered alarm, make sure it's installed by a qualified electrician. It's also possible to fit extra automatic 'fire suppression' systems at home – that's things like sprinklers.

Will the local fire department change my smoke alarm batteries?

Can the Fire Department come out and change the batteries on my smoke detector? Yes, if the smoke alarm is too high for the resident to reach and they are disabled or elderly and are not able to climb on a ladder to replace the batteries. This does not apply for rental properties.

How many smoke alarms do I need in a 3 bedroom house?

According to the United States Department of Homeland Security, and the California Building Code, at least one smoke detector needs to be placed in each of the following areas of your home: On Every Floor Level. In Every Bedroom. In Every Hallway Outside of a Bedroom.

How do you know if a hard wired smoke detector is bad?

If your smoke detectors are yellowing, chirping non-stop, or going off unexpectedly, it's time to call in our electrical pros from Integrity Home Solutions. We can inspect and replace hardwired smoke detectors or install them if you don't have them in place already. Don't take a chance on your family's safety.

Can a handyman install a smoke detector?

Whether you choose to go with a hard-wired system or an interconnected system, your smoke detector installation should be completed by a qualified electrician. A professional will ensure that the job is done right the first time in accordance with state and local regulations and standards.

How to stop a smoke detector from chirping?

Even after the battery has died, the detector maintains a residual charge that will keep the chirp going for at least seven days. To get the device to stop chirping once the battery has been removed, you must drain this residual charge by holding the test button for 15 seconds.

Should 20 year old smoke detectors be replaced?

Every 10 years based on the date of manufacture on the back label (7–10 years for combination CO/smoke alarm) If the alarm sounds an end-of-life signal (see back of alarm for description of signal)

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