Wisconsin Code Requirements (SPS 328)
Required Smoke Detector Locations
Inside Each Bedroom
Every room used for sleeping must have a smoke alarm
Outside Sleeping Areas
Hallway or landing near bedrooms
Every Level
Including basement, even if unfinished
Top of Stairways
Smoke rises - detect it early
Hardwired vs Battery Detectors
Hardwired (Recommended)
- Interconnected - all alarms sound together
- Battery backup for power outages
- Required for new construction
- No dead battery failures
Cost: $75-$150/detector installed
Battery-Powered
- Acceptable in existing homes
- Easy self-installation
- Not interconnected (unless wireless)
- Requires battery maintenance
Cost: $20-$50/detector (DIY)
Carbon Monoxide Detector Requirements
Wisconsin Act 158
Wisconsin requires carbon monoxide detectors in residential buildings with:
- • Fuel-burning appliances (furnace, water heater, fireplace, stove)
- • Attached garages
CO detectors must be within 15 feet of each sleeping area. Combination smoke/CO detectors satisfy both requirements with a single device.
Proper Placement Guidelines
DO:
- Mount on ceiling or high on wall (within 12" of ceiling)
- Keep at least 4" from wall-ceiling junction
- Place in center of room when possible
- Test monthly by pressing test button
DON'T:
- Near kitchens (false alarms from cooking)
- Near bathrooms (steam triggers false alarms)
- Near HVAC vents or windows
- In garages, attics, or unheated spaces
Replacement & Maintenance
10
Years max life for smoke alarms
Monthly
Test alarm function
Yearly
Replace batteries (non-sealed)
Check the manufacture date on the back of each alarm. Replace immediately if chirping persists after battery replacement or if the unit doesn't respond to testing.
Upgrade to Hardwired Protection
Interconnected smoke detectors provide critical extra seconds of warning time. Couillard Electric installs code-compliant hardwired smoke and CO detection systems throughout Sheboygan, Ozaukee, and Washington Counties.