How Much Does Smoke Detector Installation Cost in 2025?
Installing a smoke detector costs an average of $115
Smoke detector installation costs $70 and $150 for most homeowners, and the average cost is $115.
There are two main types of smoke detectors: Ionized and optical.
Hardwired smoke detectors are more expensive than battery-powered ones but offer enhanced safety features.
Contractors (or licensed electricians) charge about $50 to $100 per hour to install a smoke detector, and professional installation is recommended for safe and effective results.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
Keeping your home and loved ones safe is a top priority, and installing smoke detectors is a crucial step. On average, professional smoke detector installation costs $115, with most homeowners spending between $70 and $150.
Your total cost will depend on the type of detector you choose—ionization, photoelectric, or dual-sensor—and whether you opt for hardwired or battery-powered units with extra features. By budgeting appropriately and hiring a professional, you can ensure your smoke detectors are installed correctly for optimal safety.
Smoke Detector Installation Cost Factors
Several factors must be considered when budgeting for smoke detector installation, including the detector type, power source, panel costs, and features.
Type
There are two main types of smoke detectors: ionization and photoelectric. Ionized detectors, costing between $5 and $25, are best at detecting fast-flaming fires. They sense small particles from rapidly burning materials.
Photoelectric detectors, priced between $10 and $30, are better at detecting slow, smoldering fires.They use a light beam to detect larger smoke particles from these types of fires.
For comprehensive protection, consider installing both types or choose a dual-sensor detector that combines both technologies.
The National Fire Protection Association recommends that homes have both ionization and photoelectric smoke detectors. Dual-sensor (combination of ionized and photoelectric) smoke detectors cost between $40 and $150+.
| Smoke Detector Type | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Ionized | $5–$25 |
| Optical | $10–$30 |
| Dual-sensor | $40–$150+ |
Hardwired vs. Battery Powered
Hardwired smoke detectors cost slightly more than battery-operated ones, starting at $15 for a basic ionization unit. Installation ranges from $50 to $100 per hour because they need to be connected to your home's electrical system, so it's best to hire a local electrician.
One major advantage of hardwired detectors is that they're interconnected—if one alarm goes off, all the alarms in your home will sound, alerting you no matter where you are. Plus, they have backup batteries to keep you protected during power outages.
Commercial Systems
A complete commercial fire alarm system costs between $1 and $7 per square foot. The range varies widely because commercial systems are highly customized and don't have fixed prices.
Talk to a fire alarm professional for an accurate price quote for a commercial installation. A specialist in commercial installations can recommend specific products and designs.
Extra Features
The cost of smoke detectors rises when you add extra features like smart technology, ranging from $50 to $150 or more. These additional features can enhance safety by providing clearer warnings and integrating with your smart home systems.
Smart Smoke Detectors
Smart smoke detectors can be expensive, ranging from $50 to $150, but can be immensely helpful in the event of a fire.
With traditional smoke alarms, you must be in your home to hear or see the alert. With a smart smoke detector, an alert goes to your phone or smart device. If you’re away from home, but there are people or pets in the house, you can quickly call 911 and head home to ensure the firefighter team helps everyone make it out safely.
Smart smoke detectors are just one way to make your home “smarter.” Though it can vary widely, a smart home system costs an average of $900.
Does Installing Smoke Detectors Increase Home Value?
While installing carbon monoxide and smoke detectors won’t significantly increase your home value, they are attractive features that can help the house sell faster. Buyers often look for homes with these important safety features for peace of mind and compliance with local regulations.
Having these detectors installed makes your home move-in ready without buyers having to complete the installation themselves after moving in. Many home insurance providers also offer policy discounts, offering potential buyers savings on future plans.
Budgeting for Smoke Detector Installation
Smoke detectors are essential for your home's safety, but the costs can add up. Here are some tips to keep your installation budget-friendly:
Choose combination carbon monoxide and smoke detectors to reduce the number of devices you need.
Opt for battery-powered detectors to save on materials and labor costs.
Look for sales or discounts at your local hardware store.
Get quotes from multiple smoke detector installation pros in your area to find the best deal.
Schedule smoke detector installation alongside other projects, like fire sprinkler installation, to save on labor fees.
How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data
No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
While both are crucial safety devices, they serve different purposes. Smoke detectors alert you to the presence of fire by sensing smoke particles in the air. Carbon monoxide detectors monitor for dangerous levels of carbon monoxide—a colorless, odorless gas from incomplete combustion. To fully protect your home, it's important to install both types, as each detects different hazards.
Yes, you can install a smoke detector on a wall. Just make sure it's placed high enough—preferably within 12 inches of the ceiling—since smoke rises. This ensures the detector senses smoke quickly. Also, place it where you can easily access it for battery changes and maintenance, but avoid areas with drafts or dead air spaces that might affect its operation.
Most smoke detectors, whether hardwired or battery-powered, have a lifespan of about 10 years. After that, they should be replaced to ensure optimal performance and safety for your household. Remember to test your smoke detectors monthly and replace the batteries at least once a year or when they start chirping.
Hardwired smoke detectors offer some advantages over battery-powered models. They're interconnected, so if one alarm goes off, they all do—providing a faster warning. They also have dual power sources: your home's electricity and a backup battery during power outages. While they cost more upfront and require professional installation, their enhanced reliability can be worth the investment.
Local guidelines and building codes demand precise smoke detector installation for maximum home safety. Homeowners must install one smoke detector on every floor, within each sleeping area, and in critical spaces such as kitchens and living rooms; many codes require a detector for every 500 feet of travel space. These strict standards ensure rapid alerting and promote the interconnected operation of devices to safeguard every part of the home.
Maintaining fully functioning smoke alarms is absolutely critical for protecting lives in your home. The National Fire Protection Association confirms that homes equipped with properly maintained smoke alarms experience a death rate that is half that of homes with malfunctioning units. Ensuring that your alarms are tested regularly, promptly repaired, and replaced when needed not only preserves early warning capabilities but also upholds the highest standards of home safety.
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