We have recently completed significant renovations to an...

<< Back to: Electrical Wiring FAQ (Part 1 of 2)

Question by Confused New Homeowner
Submitted on 10/15/2003
Related FAQ: Electrical Wiring FAQ (Part 1 of 2)
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We have recently completed significant renovations to an older home (late '50s). Part of the renovation involved installing smoke detectors on each floor (connected to each other), directly wired to the electrical system in the house. After the contractor left, we discovered that using certain outlets caused one or more of the detectors to sound an alarm. The contractor (not an electrician) was unable to explain why, and nor were the help desk personnel at the smoke detector company. We have also noticed that at times it seems more sensitive than others (e.g.: during electrical storms). We assume that it must have to do with the wiring, but don't know how. Is there an easy explanation, or will we have to call in an electrician (or both)?

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<< Back to: Electrical Wiring FAQ (Part 1 of 2)

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Answer by twig
Submitted on 1/5/2004
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the smoke alarms should be wired to a separate circuit with a battery back up system. you may need an electrician for this

Answer by D.Tiwari
Submitted on 2/12/2004
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The smoke alarm may have been connected in series to the outlets in question. When the outlets are used the smoke alarm NOW gets energized through the closed path created by currents flowing thru the appliance connected to the outlets. This will trigger on the smoke alarm. As to false triggering during electrical storms, considering the above conditions are true, the smoke alarm will not be at a truly ground potential since it gets "grounded" through the appliance connected to the outlets in question. Fluctuations of the more easily induced currents picked up during electrical storms will create false triggering.

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