What is a Duct Mounted Smoke Detector?

Tori Klein • December 13, 2021

When it involves discussing the ins and outs of duct-placed smoke detectors, it is probably best to start with what you need to not be using them for, instead of what you should.

Picture of a smoke detector with smoke around it.

For example, a duct-mounted smoke detector must not be utilized as a substitute for a location smoke alarm or an early caution discovery system. Neither needs to be taken into consideration as a replacement for a building's common fire discovery system. All that being said, you might be wondering why you would certainly utilize them for! To shed some light on the topic, let's begin by exploring what this essential fire security tool is as well as what it is designed to do.



What is an Air Duct Mounted Smoke Alarm?


Modern heating, ventilating, as well as cooling (HVAC) systems today operate by flowing air (warm or cold) via a series of air ducts throughout the framework. A duct smoke alarm is a tool or group of gadgets to detect the presence of smoke in the ductwork. When the tool detects smoke, the fan shuts down, preventing smoke from being dispersed by the air handling system to other areas of a structure.



When is Air Duct Mounted Smoke Detectors Required?


The actual nature of a cooling and heating system can be a contributing variable to injury or property damage brought on by the recirculation of fire and smoke through the air ducts. Its' main purpose is to flow the air throughout the building. When that air is filled with smoke, carbon monoxide, or other harmful fumes, having a very early detection system to reduce the circulation of the air is important. Air duct smoke detectors are normally required for larger commercial or industrial facilities with HVAC systems of 5-tons and bigger. For the most part, NFPA standards and also typically regional code enforcement require their addition in a detailed fire safety plan.


Points You Need To Know


  • Make certain your air duct smoke detector installer supplies all datasheets for maintenance and servicing upon setup.
  • Follow the supplier's recommended guidelines for testing, maintenance, and also regular upkeep.
  • Guarantee your installer is qualified to mount your air duct smoke alarm according to NFPA requirements.
  • Have your HVAC system examined yearly to guarantee it is still properly working.


Having an appropriately installed duct smoke detector system in place is a crucial tool for protecting against injury or property damages as a result of fire as well as smoke. However, it should be just one part of a detailed fire security prevention and also discovery plan. For more details on duct-placed smoke alarm setup, get in touch with the specialists at Best Owner Direct. Our specialist team of heating and cooling experts is dedicated to keeping the air you and your family members breathe-- safe and comfy. Call us today for all your HVAC needs.

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Best Owner Direct is your local, independent, family-owned and operated, residential and commercial HVAC service, repair and installation team. We're a trade ally of the Energy Trust of Oregon and our certified professionals offer services for all major brands. With over 20 years of experience, our team can handle all of your HVAC needs.


Free estimates available for installations. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule an appointment!

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