SMOKE DETEDCTORS

[tom baker]

Re: SMOKE DETEDCTORS

The CMP clearly meant for the smoke detectors to be on the AFCI circuit. There is a good article in the current issue of NEC Digest by Alan Marche of Square D that covers this.
I don't think AFCI requirements are going to be reduced.
Bjansen, The ROC's are out can you point us to an ROC that supports your comment?

 

[little george]

Re: SMOKE DETEDCTORS

What's the difference between a smoke detector and a smoke alarm? (Trick question)

 

[iwire]

Re: SMOKE DETEDCTORS

One makes noise one does not.

 

[ryan_618]

Re: SMOKE DETEDCTORS

Refer ro the ROC for section 760.21...you may be surprised (I certainly was)

 

[frretwell]

Re: SMOKE DETEDCTORS

if the smoke detector is on a deticated 10 amp. ckt.(14-2 home run ) dose that meat the requirements ?

 

[bphgravity]

Re: SMOKE DETEDCTORS

Originally posted by frretwell:
if the smoke detector is on a deticated 10 amp. ckt.(14-2 home run ) dose that meat the requirements ?

Im sure you mean 15-amp circuit.

 

[roger]

Re: SMOKE DETEDCTORS

Here is this same question disscussed.

Roger

 

[mjf]

Re: SMOKE DETEDCTORS

Originally posted by frretwell:
if the smoke detector is on a deticated 10 amp. ckt.(14-2 home run ) dose that meat the requirements ?

In my area the local codes do NOT allow smoke detectors on a dedicated circuit. Check with your local inspector for any local codes.

 

[haskindm]

Re: SMOKE DETEDCTORS

We had this discussion in my jurisdiction about whether or not the Smoke detectors should be on a AFCI protected circuit. After much discussion it was determined that it was more important to PREVENT a fire than to ANNOUNCE a fire. If AFCI works, then the smoke detectors should be on them. If they don't work, we shouldn't use them on any circuit. Since we are using them, we have to assume that they work. If I am not home, or even if I am home, I would much rather have the AFCI operate to prevent a fire from starting, than have a smoke detector announce the fact that my house is burning down!
We have one jurisdiction in our area that has not only required the smoke detectors not be protected by AFCI, they must be on a dedicated circuit with no other outlets. This is a very bad policy. If the smoke detector circuit becomes de-energized for any reason, the occupant will never know until either the battery goes dead and hopefully they will hear the beep warning them that this has happened, or they test the smoke detectors and they do not work. This is a prime example of people that don't understand the code or even basic electricity passing legislation that effects our industry.

 

[don_resqcapt19]

Re: SMOKE DETEDCTORS

haskindm,

If AFCI works, then the smoke detectors should be on them. If they don't work, we shouldn't use them on any circuit.

The only problem with that theory is the fire could have a non-electrical cause and in turn cause the AFCI to trip before there was enough smoke at the detector location to cause the smoke alarm to activate.
Don