Smoke alarms are very important part of fire safety in a home and should be replaced every 10 years.

Now with wireless smoke alarm interconnection couldn’t be easier. I have been suggesting these wireless interconnected smoke alarms to home buyers for a while now in older homes that did not have wired interconnected smoke alarms, but the 2012 IRC made it official and they can be used in new construction also.

Now when performing repairs or in new construction wireless interconnected smoke alarms will be able to be used to meet the requirements for interconnection.

There are also hardwired wireless interconnectable smoke alarms (with battery backup) that can expand your current coverage by simply replacing an interconnected alarm then take advantage of the wireless technology for additional smoke alarms.

http://www.kidde.com/Documents/kws%20data%20sheet.pdf

IRC Rules

R314.5 Interconnection. (Bold and underlined are mine)

Where more than one smoke alarm is required to be installed within an individual dwelling unit in accordance with Section R314.3, the alarm devices shall be interconnected in such a manner that the actuation of one alarm will activate all of the alarms in the individual unit. Physical interconnection of smoke alarms shall not be required where listed wireless alarms are installed and all alarms sound upon activation of one alarm.

Exception: Interconnection of smoke alarms in existing areas shall not be required where alterations or repairs do not result in removal of interior wall or ceiling finishes exposing the structure, unless there is an attic, crawl space or basement available which could provide access for interconnection without the removal of interior finishes.

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Nicolaus Copernicus

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