Let's talk smoke detectors, 32KD and others

[malmz]

Obviously, there is probabaly some sort of code related to RV smoke detectors and placement, on the 32KD it is right outside the lav door which puts it across from the microwave/convection oven with the motorized roof vent forward of that kind of in a triangle configuration.

100% of the time when we use the convection oven, open the door, the smoke detector goes off, the dog freaks out and does an imitation of Garfield stuck to the back window of an 84 Chrysler minivan (somebody explain that to the next gen). The fantastic fan can be open and on high, but the way the hot air comes out it still hits the smoke detector and sets it off. When using just the microwave function, it is less common.

Has anybody experience the same, and if so, other than taking the detector down every time, have you experimented with location solutions? Where can it be relocated and still be compliant? More towards the bedroom barn door? In the bedroom? I am sure it would detect true smoke placed anywhere high since the square footage is small in an RV.

After relocating I will need to cover some existing screw holes too.

 

[reidfo]

As far as I'm aware, there no codes for smoke detectors in RVs, or codes for anything else in RVs for that matter. Move it to where it works for you and still does its job.

 

[TitanMike]

While relocating the detector you might consider upgrading to one that is less susceptible to false alarms like the "cheapest ones" often do.

Look at Kidde photoelectric smoke detector which alarms from smoke, not just "ionized particles" that produce the most false alarms.

 

[malmz]

While relocating the detector you might consider upgrading to one that is less susceptible to false alarms like the "cheapest ones" often do.

Look at Kidde photoelectric smoke detector which alarms from smoke, not just "ionized particles" that produce the most false alarms.

That sounds like a great first step, I will look at that one and try it in the original location. If we still get false alarms move it away and put the original sans battery in the factory location to cover the screw holes. I did not realize there was different tech used in different detectors.

 

[Reverse_snowbird]

If you're going to replace it, look into a combination smoke/co detector with a long lasting battery.

 

[Chuck_S]

All depends on your priorities and uses. My travel trailer is obviously not a motor home but I simply remove the battery from the ceiling mounted smoke detector when frying bacon. No big deal and certainly not worth it to me to buy a "better" or more exotic unit to avoid this minor inconvenience.

Do what you need/want regarding the smoke detector. Should be on the ceiling or high on the wall but "code enforcement" won't be performing any no-knock raids to see where you put it. Hard to find a smoke detector that doesn't also detect carbon monoxide (CO) so why not fit one if you're replacing the current unit.

-- Chuck

 

[aircommuter]

Nearest the sleeping area is usually the best.

 

[D W]

If your RV is badged with an RVIA label stating NFPA 1192 Certified, then it is required to have a smoke detector. Smoke Detectors should be placed near sleeping quarters, not in the kitchen area. Same for CO detectors.

 

[MVD]

Obviously, there is probabaly some sort of code related to RV smoke detectors and placement, on the 32KD it is right outside the lav door which puts it across from the microwave/convection oven with the motorized roof vent forward of that kind of in a triangle configuration.

100% of the time when we use the convection oven, open the door, the smoke detector goes off, the dog freaks out and does an imitation of Garfield stuck to the back window of an 84 Chrysler minivan (somebody explain that to the next gen). The fantastic fan can be open and on high, but the way the hot air comes out it still hits the smoke detector and sets it off. When using just the microwave function, it is less common.

Has anybody experience the same, and if so, other than taking the detector down every time, have you experimented with location solutions? Where can it be relocated and still be compliant? More towards the bedroom barn door? In the bedroom? I am sure it would detect true smoke placed anywhere high since the square footage is small in an RV.

After relocating I will need to cover some existing screw holes too.

Having similar issue with smoke detector. Pull the battery when using kitchen. Like the idea of a less sensitive unit better than relocating to bedroom or further forward in the living area. Not sure if moving the detector meets any code requirements?

 

[DBM]

My Isata 3 smoke detector is mounted right above the kitchen area. It always went off with any type cooking. I just took the battery out and left the SD in place. I bought another SD and mounted it in the bedroom. Problem solved.

 

[Chuck_S]

Both my detectors aged out long ago but I didn't realize it until my LP detector failed to alert to a stove burner that was accidentally turned on without lighting it.

Ceiling Smoke/CO detector with the battery tray open for winter hibernation (and frying bacon). Easy to tell if the battery is in or out. Lowes/Home/Amazon.

Near-floor LP detector that dropped right into the hole FR made for the original. Direct replacement -- just match the wire colors. 3a inline fuse is behind the hole. This detector is hard wired to the trailer battery which is why the green LED is lit. Flush mount MTI Industries 30-442-P-WT Propane Gas Alarm. 20 minute install. Hardest part is getting up off the floor when done. Amazon has them.

-- Chuck