Split level homes smoke detector requirements

[Doctor Electric]

I have a 3 story house but it has a den that is probably two steps down from the kitchen with the different ceiling height than the kitchen am I required to have a separate smoke detector for the drop-down area or is my one per floor on this okay. Any thoughts on this would be appreciated guys thanks

 

[infinity]

Generally a smoke alarm is required on each level. For the split-level homes around here that would be 4 levels (basement level, den level, living room level, bedroom hallway level) and 4 alarms, plus the ones in the bedrooms.

 

[gadfly56]

Generally a smoke alarm is required on each level. For the split-level homes around here that would be 4 levels (basement level , den level, living room level, bedroom hallway level) and 4 alarms alarms, plus the ones in the bedrooms.

I agree.

 

[retirede]

Generally a smoke alarm is required on each level. For the split-level homes around here that would be 4 levels (basement level , den level, living room level, bedroom hallway level) and 4 alarms alarms, plus the ones in the bedrooms.

But if a room is only two steps down from adjacent, does that make it another level? I think that’s what he’s asking. What constitutes a new level? I have no idea.

Is a sunken living room its own level?

 

[infinity]

But if a room is only two steps down from adjacent, does that make it another level? I think that’s what he’s asking. What constitutes a new level? I have no idea.

Is a sunken living room its own level?

A sunken living room typically has a ceiling that is the same height as the adjacent rooms. Split levels tend to have changes in both the floor levels (via steps) and the ceiling so IMO the two are not the same.

 

[retirede]

A sunken living room typically has a ceiling that is the same height as the adjacent rooms. Split levels tend to have changes in both the floor levels (via steps) and the ceiling so IMO the two are not the same.

I would agree…but we still haven’t answered the original question.

 

[Doctor Electric]

it is a different ceiling height thats what makes me question it whats the rule that constitutes another floor, another smoke/co detector?

 

[LarryFine]

As smoke tends to rise, I would think a detector on the upper (kitchen) ceiling would suffice, unless the two areas are effectively separated by a narrowing, like an archway.

Also, smoke detectors are normally not installed IN kitchens.

 

[infinity]

I don't think that "level" is defined. IMO a different ceiling height and floor level equals different levels. The OP stated two stairs and different ceiling heights. Change the two stairs to ten stairs then what do you have? Two, ten no different.

 

[Rick 0920]

I've had similar discussions about bedrooms with tray ceilings and vaulted ceilings. I have always put the smoke detector in the tray or vaulted ceiling at the highest point of the ceiling away from corners and air vents. I have also seen the job pass inspection when the smoke detector is installed in the lower portion. I don't know the answer to this one but I've never been turned down for too much fire protection, only not enough. IMO, if it's questionable, throw one in there.

 

[Doctor Electric]

Ok. Your right when in doubt throw it out

 

[kwired]

A sunken living room typically has a ceiling that is the same height as the adjacent rooms. Split levels tend to have changes in both the floor levels (via steps) and the ceiling so IMO the two are not the same.

What about a room with same floor level as adjacent rooms but has a vaulted ceiling?

JMO and don't know what rules are for this, but smoke has tendency to rise and is likely to find it's way to those higher ceiling areas regardless of floor elevation.

 

[gadfly56]

What about a room with same floor level as adjacent rooms but has a vaulted ceiling?

JMO and don't know what rules are for this, but smoke has tendency to rise and is likely to find it's way to those higher ceiling areas regardless of floor elevation.

I would agree, but you need to consider carefully. If the lower ceiling area is significant, approaching 900 square feet, you may want to add a smoke alarm in both locations.

My parents' home is a split level, with the living room elevated about 4 steps. However, it has a cathedral ceiling that is the same height as the second story floor, where the steps to the upper floor go up from the living room, so it doesn't need a separate smoke detector. If there were an arch forming a smoke barrier between them, it would be a different issue.