How much to charge to replace smoke detectors?

Author: Prof. Nat Pfeffer MD  |  Last update: Wednesday, January 28, 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 install 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.

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.

How long does it take to replace a smoke detector?

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.

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.

How often should you replace your smoke alarms?

Who to call to replace smoke detectors?

Only qualified electricians should install hardwired smoke alarms.

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 you replace a smoke detector by 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.

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 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.

How much does it cost to replace a wired smoke detector?

Installing a smoke alarm costs between $70 to $150 on average, nationwide. According to Fixr, most people prefer installing a hardwired smoke detector, which typically costs around $112.

Is it hard to change a hardwired smoke detector?

To be installed correctly, hardwired smoke detectors require more than just the common sense needed to install battery-operated smoke detectors. To ensure they function seamlessly and avoid potential dangers, these units need to be replaced and installed by a licensed electrician.

Why is a hard wired smoke detector beeping?

These devices, typically mounted on ceilings or walls, are prone to gathering dust over time. This dust can infiltrate the sensing chamber in your detector, causing it to make a beeping sound as a malfunction alert. Excessive dust buildup can trigger false alarms, causing the system to go off randomly.

How much to replace smoke detectors on Reddit?

They cost like 50 - 60 bucks each at any big box store. Even hard wired are the same price. I'm an Electrician just so you know. It would take 10-15 minutes tops.

What is the code for smoke detector installation?

For many years NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, has required as a minimum that smoke alarms be installed inside every sleep room (even for existing homes) in addition to requiring them outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home. (Additional smoke alarms are required for larger homes.)

Should smoke detectors be mounted high or low?

Smoke alarms should be mounted on the ceiling at least 4 inches from a wall or on a wall with the top of the alarm not less than 4 inches, or more than 12 inches, below the ceiling.

Do hard wired smoke detectors need to be replaced every 10 years?

The US National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) have issued NFPA Standard 72, National Fire Alarm and Signalling Code, which states that all smoke alarms (including alarms that use 10 year batteries, and those that are hard wired) should be replaced when they are ten years old, or sooner if they don't respond ...

How do you know when a smoke detector needs to be replaced?

5 Telltale Signs That Your Smoke Alarms Need Replacement
  1. Your Smoke Alarm Shows Yellowish Discoloration. ...
  2. The Smoke Alarm Chirps Frequently. ...
  3. It Does Not Respond to Testing. ...
  4. It Goes Off Anyhow. ...
  5. It Has Faulty Parts. ...
  6. Call Davis & Green Today.

Are hardwired smoke detectors better?

Reliability: Hardwired smoke detectors are renowned for their reliability. They are directly connected to your home's electrical system, ensuring a constant power source. It means they are less likely to fail due to dead batteries, providing continuous fire protection throughout.

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 long does it take to install a smoke detector?

Hard-wired systems are a more complex installation and may take a full day, depending on the number of alarms and existing wire condition of the property. Upgrading a hard-wired system takes much less time than installing one.

How to stop smoke detector from chirping without battery?

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.

How much does it cost to replace 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.

Why did my fire alarm randomly go off in the middle of the night?

Why did my fire alarm randomly go off in the middle of the night? This is likely due to one of the common causes like low battery, dirt buildup, humidity, or insects interfering with the sensor. Test the alarm and clean it thoroughly to try and resolve the issue. Make sure batteries are fresh and secure.

Can I replace my own hardwired smoke detector?

You can install a hardwired smoke detector yourself, but only if you have a good familiarity with home electrical work and an understanding of electrical circuits before attempting this project.

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