ECN Forum Forums Code Related Discussion Building Codes for Electricians Smoke Detectors

Whether arc-fault protection is required depends on which NEC you're using. Here in Va., we're still on the '99 code, which requires arc-fault protection on only the receptacles, not all outlets like the '02 code requires.

I imagine that any wired interconnecting scheme would require pre-wiring at least as complicated as running 3-conductor cable, might not be UL-approved, and/or may require a difficult approval procedure.

I just finished roughing a house with 14 detectors (over 7K sq.ft.), and fed them their own circuit, using 14-3 from the first detector on. Being on another circuit didn't come up at inspection. They will of course be battery-backup units.

If anyone is interested, I do have access to a wireless detector-interconnect system. I believe it's a power-line-carrier link (similar to X-10, but not X-10). The individual detectors do not have to share the same circuit.

Larry

[This message has been edited by Larry Fine (edited 04-24-2005).]

The NFPA is somewhat ambitious in writing codes to cover all & sundry....even though very few are actually adopted anywhere. Despite this, they are usually a good source of guidance- you won't often go wrong!

That said, requirements for smoke detectors are typically found in the local building code (for new construction). The UBC, BOCA, and other common building codes all address this issue.

Another source that may be relevant is the local "housing" code, especially in the case of apartments, motels, and the like. Government subsidised housing contracts also typically mandate them.

Lesson: Knowing just the NEC is not enough.

Though not applicable except for in Federal Empoyee Housing or Federally Assisted Housing, the Federal Fire Safety Act of 1992 requires them. See 41 CFR part 101-6.