How to Replace Hardwired Smoke Detector - Safely Update Your Smoke Detectors with Kidde FireX
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- Опубликовано: 8 мар 2020
- How to Replace Hardwired Smoke Detector - Safely Update Your Smoke Detectors with Kidde FireX
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Kidde Smoke Detector (single unit): amzn.to/4bcK3yC
Kidde Smoke Detector (4-Pack): amzn.to/3UBjTA0
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If you need to replace your old smoke detector there’s no need to worry! It’s pretty easy to do even for beginners and I’ll show you how step by step in this video. I’m replacing my old units with the FireX detectors by Kidde. These are very common in a lot of homes and I have four of them in the house shown in the video.
Only simple tools are needed in addition to a basic circuit tester which will light up if there’s still power going through the electrical wiring.
Make sure you shut off power at your breaker box before you begin. After the new smoke detector is installed and the power is restored you should hear a beep. On the Kidde smoke detectors, the last step is to pull out the plastic tab to activate the backup battery. A green light shows that the detector is powered on!
In all I replaced four smoke detectors in this house and as you'll see in this video it’s not difficult to do. If this video was helpful please give me a thumbs up and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button to stay up to date on all my weekly videos!
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Хобби
Excellent video! After watching it a couple times, I changed out 2 VERY old detectors all by myself. Your close ups of the rewiring was especially helpful. Thank you!
You are a great instructor! Calm, straightforward, easy to understand and no extra unnecessary information. So helpful! Thanks very much for this video.
You’re welcome! I’m really glad you found my smoke detector installation video helpful! And I’m glad you noticed that I don’t add any non-related info. To me it’s not necessary. I know my viewer just want the information they’re looking for! Thanks for watching!
Thanks it is onformation
I love RUclips for DIY tasks like this. 😊
Thank you so much for this video! I am a new homeowner and was nervous about trying to replace my 14 year old smoke detectors myself but after watching this video I was able to do it without any problem.
I installed seven of these 120 volt Kidde units with batteries in my large house during a renovation in about 2006, and have replaced the odd one over the years when it acted up. The last batch bought from Canadian Tire have been giving us fits over the last month, with two middle-of-the-night alarms from the newer units.
Thank you! Almost midnight and the chirping began…you saved the night!
Yes!!!! Mine usually started at around 1 am!!! Tall ceilings so have to drag the 10’ ladder in from outside!! I got mad at them and yanked them all out!!! I seriously need to put new ones in. Great video.
Am totally not an electrician. But, thanks to this video I just replaced an AC/battery smoke/CO alarm. Great directions. Thanks.
Great video: clear, concise and precise. No waffle. Thanks a billion!
Short, concise and clear. Good work.
Videos like yours are basically raising me like my absentee father never did 😂 thanks, RUclips dad!
You’re welcome! I too learn a lot from RUclips! And glad my smoke detector tutorial was helpful! Thanks for watching!
Thank you! I installed a pair of similar units and your video is what I went by.
This video was so helpful! Thank you ! I was able to change my smoke detectors by watching your “to the point” directions
Thanks! Just finished doing the 3 (22 year old!) hardwired smoke detectors in my new home. This video helped a lot!
Excellent! I’m glad my smoke detector tutorial was helpful! Nice job! Thanks for watching!
Thank you so much for making me believe I could do this by myself! It worked!
Thank you! Now I feel confident to try this myself!
You’re welcome! Yeah it’s not really that difficult to change a smoke detector! Thanks for watching!
This video gave me a boost when it started by saying it's easy to do even for beginners. Thanks! The old and new smoke detectors shown here are exactly what I have. The step-by-step process was very helpful in that it simplified everything. Though I have to agree with the observation that the step to check if there's power in the wires were off. I simply used the non-contact voltage tester. Nevertheless I'm bookmarking this, for it's virtually impossible to recall what steps I took to accomplish this 10 years from now.
Thank you for being on RUclips. I am 66 years old (female) and I use RUclips quite frequently about installations/replace/repairs for different interior fixes and automobiles.... like replaces light bulbs in front lights and tail lights. I read manuals on how service advisors will inflate car repairs and maintenance especially mechanics ripping off women. I can't believe how many times I have challenged the GM and file claims to the Attorney Generals office for misleading or using reused parts instead of OEM parts. Sometimes you learn the hard way...sometimes it is best to research before hiring "handy-man" or taking their "trusted" words to get a better deal.
I was having a heck of a time trying to figure out how to get the wire separated from the detector. You said to squeeze the side tabs. That wasn't easy at first. I guess I wasn't squeezing hard enough. Thank you very much!
You are AWESOME... this video was just what I needed to Shut my husband's mouth.... I got everything replaced the right way.....if it came with everything ...why not replaced everything.. all it takes is a little more time.. love your videos
Your video is clear and shows images that familiarize viewers with what they are handling, step by step. Your narration is calm and well-paced.
Glad you enjoyed my smoke detector tutorial! Yeah I like to show everything close up so viewers can see what I’m doing as if they’re looking through my eyes! Plus I try to capture every detail in case I have to refer back to my video in the future. Thanks for watching!
This was super helpful, thank you. Especially liked the close up view, so we can see clearly what you are doing.
I’m glad you enjoyed my smoke detector installation video! Yeah on all my videos I like to show things up close so my viewers can actually see what I’m doing. I’ve watched a lot of videos where the camera is too far away! I always try showing the details up close to make a more helpful video! Thanks for watching!
Was looking for how to unplug. Thank-you!
Great explanation/ guide. Thank you.
I'm 41 and feeling empowered now that I've changed my smoke detectors after watching your instruction video! My dad suggested I call a pro.....but I'm adventurous 😂 Thank you!!
Excellent! I know the feeling! I used to be scared to work on stuff around the house but at some point I thought if someone else can do it so can I. The worst thing that could happen is that I have to call someone if I can’t figure it out. Good work replacing your smoke detectors! Thanks for watching!
Very good instruction and demo of what and why things are done as they should. THANK YOU!
Thank you for this video! I just finished successfully installing a new smoke detector in my home with help from this video!😊
You’re welcome! I’m really glad you were able to install your own smoke detectors with my video! Nice job! Thanks for watching!
This was explained very well, thank you
Thank you best video on RUclips about these Kidde smoke alarms. Very detailed, exactly what I needed to know and even some stuff I didn't, but it all worked together so as to not confuse me. 👍🏼
You’re welcome! I’m really glad that my smoke detector installation tutorial helped!
I love noodles p
You are an amazing instructor.. keep such videos coming!!!
Excellent video. I do like short and to the point instruction. Well done.
Simple, easy...Thank you!
Thanks man! That was super helpful!
Thank you so much for this video! It was so easy to follow and helped me switch out some smoke alarms without my husband's help. High five!
You’re welcome! Glad you were able to change some of your smoke detectors yourself! Thanks for watching!
My Kidde smoke detector was stuck tight! After many tries, I used a hairdryer to warm the plastic housing and twisted counterclockwise. The smoke detector came off and replacement was easy!
GREAT VIDEO! thank you for step by step instruction 😀👍
I did it!! Thank you so much for such an easy diy video.
You’re welcome! I’m glad you were able to replace your smoke detector yourself! Good work! Thanks for watching!
Great tutorial. I was a bit anxious since the very old (1996) smoke alarms did not match up with the wire plugs with the new ones though they are both FireX, now I understand I need to switch out the wires.
Extremely helpful. Thank you.
You’re welcome! Glad my smoke detector installation video was helpful!
THANK YOU!!! Simple and very understandable!
Excellent video. Thank you !
Excellent video and directions!
Very informative. Thank you for sharing
Very nice and no confusion.
Great video and very helpful. Thank you
Thanks now I can take rig dabs in my room💙🖤your a legend
awesome instruction. Great work!
Such a great video... THANKS!
Great video! However, you made a quite crucial mistake when checking if power is still running through the wires.
For Kidde (FireX) detectors, Black = Live, White = Neutral, Red = Interconnect. You put the tester across the interconnect line and neutral line, meaning you won’t get any signal if the breaker was on or off.
Should it be black and white or black and red (cupper)?
@@marymenendez1430 black is live (positive), white is neutral (negative), so you would want to measure between black and white
This was a perfect how to. I had to rewire a smoke detector today. Thanks for the video!
You’re welcome! Nice work rewiring your smoke detector!
Very helpful! Thank you so much!
Thanks for the great instructions!
You’re welcome! I’m glad my smoke detector installation video was helpful! Thanks for watching!
Super easy video, super helpful thank you 🙏
Awesome video - All quality content and no chaff - Thanks!
You’re welcome! I’m glad my smoke detector installation video was helpful! And yeah I try to make my videos as short and concise as possible! No need for unrelated content to fill up time! Thanks for watching!
Yes, some people fill videos with cutsie stuff, trying to be comedian or entertaining; I just need the info. I’ll find my entertainment elsewhere thank you. Very good instructional video.
You explained that very well. Thank you
Thanks for showing me how to change my smoke alarm!
Just switched out all of my smoke detectors same as yours. A couple tips, when you pull off the old detectors back plate. Make a note of the symbols next to the existing mounting holes. There will be a symbol for a square, rectangular, circle. Use this to accurately identify their location on the new plate. Also, there’s no need to use an utility knife to open the keyholes. They are knock outs; use a blunt tool to simply punch out your desired keyhole.
Good God thank you! You are the only person to show how to get that dam thing off . I almost broke it and all I had to do was pinch those things and pull it off. It was a bit old so tight going but suprised at how easy it was . Everyone else took for granted that I just knew that part. I did not. Befor your video I was getting very frustrated
Very clear and informative video in every way. Clear demonstration with near perfect visual and audio instructions. Thank you. I am wondering how to replace an old wired smoke alarm with a new smoke, fire and Co detector since I am not there and the house in rented. Obviously, handyman are hard to come by and it's not easy. Perhaps the tenant could do it himself. Is kidde a good brank?. Lots of complaints on Amazon and about beeps going off or 10 year battery out in no time.
Seems nicely made
Great video with clear instruction! Thanks!
You’re welcome! I’m really glad that my smoke detector installation tutorial was helpful! Thanks for watching!
@@TheRenderQ I changed my old smoke detector to the new new successfully after watching your video. Thanks a lot again!
great video. i was able to replace my two smoke detectors. thank you.
You’re welcome! I’m really glad my smoke detector video was helpful! Thanks for watching!
I have looked videos but your one explained very well . Do I have to change the wires or I can keep the old one as it is
Very clear guide thanks
You’re welcome! I’m really glad that my smoke detector tutorial was helpful! Thanks for watching!
Thank you so much for this video! We focus on Wireless Smart Alarm Systems, hoping to provide safety protection for more people, smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms, Door Sensor,a small item may be able to help many families stay away from disasters.
Thank you so much!
Very useful and well presented
You’re welcome! Really glad my smoke detector installation video helped! Thanks for watching!
Thx. for the video. You make it sound so easy. How do i know how circuit breaker corresponds to the smoke alarm.
I noticed the red wire end on the new one does not have the wire exposed. Does that "bulb" on the end just pull off? Thanks for the video.
Thank you! I did it !!
You’re welcome! Excellent work changing out your smoke detector! Nice job!
Great video. Thank you.
You’re welcome! Glad my smoke detector tutorial helped! Thanks for watching!
Thank you!
Good video! The screw holes punch out perfectly. Just put the plate down (on something soft like carpet or a towel) and push with your screwdriver. They will pop out cleanly. Way faster than using a utility knife!
Thanks for the tip on punching out the screw holes! That’s what I would’ve thought to do but it didn’t work right away so I cut them out with a utility knife. Glad you enjoyed my video!
My house is older and has electrical wires. Should I just cap them off and seal?
I just purchased a Kidde combination smoke carbon monoxide alarm. I want to use it as my sole detector, do I HAVE to connect it to others?
Thank you
Nice content
Very good
HI, the links to the smoke detector aren't working. I needed to know which one to buy, which is the one you demonstrated. Thank you.
that snap in prongs on my new SD don't match that snap in prong from old the SD. What do you do ? ?
I have the same detector you installed , its 6 years old and chirping . I pushed the button next to the green light . It stopped for 3 days & started chirping again. Do I need to change it?
Thank You 💐
You’re welcome! Glad my smoke detector tutorial helped! Thanks for watching!
How will u replace the battery on the new one?
How do the LEDs on these behave? Do they remain lit all the time, flash periodically, or only flash for events & maintenance?
Thank you!
Here's what the LED's mean;
Constan green LED: indicates it's receiving AC power
Blinking red LED every 45 seconds: battery is working as it should
Rapid Blinking red LED: that device is the one that's been triggered into alarm.
not pronounced "Kiddey" , but "Kidda". Thanks for the cool video
Thanks
helpful ez instruction
Thank you! I need to do this with my 15 year old detectors and wasn't sure how - especially with the wiring part! Looks so easy, pretty sure I can handle it. Question - can you leave one disconnected? I have a meditation room I frequently burn incense in and do not want the dumb detector in there at all. lol And can you do a few at a time? My power for them has been turned off since Hurricane Irma and they are so spread out in my 2 story house, there is no way I could do them all at once with those stupid beeps going off lol. Was hoping I could do the 4 main ones first, then do the rest another time. (I have 7 total, 1 I want to keep disconnected) so was thinking about going thru and disconnecting them all first with power still off, then installing new ones in the kitchen, my art studio (3d printers), bedroom, and upstairs hallways, then turning power on?
You can replace your smoke detectors one at a time. Depending on how much time you have you don’t have to do them all at once. I replaced half of mine one day and finished rest the next day. It won’t matter how many you do at a time. If your smoke detectors are beeping then try replacing the battery on one to see if it will stop beeping. If the power has been off for awhile your batteries are probably drained. You can also disconnect the smoke alarm from the clip on wiring harness but not something I recommend because you need to stay protected. For your meditation room you can also disconnect it from the clip on wiring harness and leave it off but again I don’t recommend it for safety reasons. Hope this helps!
I have not replaced my detector yet, but did take it down. Why after two weeks did the hole in the wall begin chirping?
Awesome
Thank you my dear. My lazy ex-husband didn't indicate on the fuse box which breakers connect to the smoke detectors but I know they'll be 15 amps. I'll have to test them and mark them accordingly for next time.
Mine breakers were labeled very poorly by the builder of my house. But it took me quite a few tries running upstairs and out to the garage to figure out which ones I needed to turn off. But once you figure out your breakers definitely label them for the future!
Yes, if you want it so YOU can use it I’ve found it’s just easier in the long run to do it myself. Ex always got so mad doing things he would start throwing tools around- I’m thinking it was his way of making me kick him out and do it myself. It worked! In more ways than one.
@@quenemoend Much easier to do it yourself. I've learned how to do so many things. My lazy ex flipped out once when he had to paint a room with no furniture in it, literally 4 walls. After that I did all the painting. Soooooo much happier without him!
Thank you.
You’re welcome! I’m glad my smoke detector installation video was helpful! Thanks for watching!
I bought the same smoke detector and tried to install it, but it didn’t work, because there was no red wire connection. The old BRK one that I got rid off didn’t have the red wire connected and it still worked, but it was beeping because it’s old. How can I make it work? Thx
Most of the Kidde units come with a variety of adapters to plug and play the new unit.
I see you used the circuit tester only on the red and white wires but not the black?
Don’t you have to touch one of the wires to metal (ground)?
Great video man.keep it up !!
but how do you stop from chirping, even if your smoke alarm is new ??
I made a video earlier this week about how to change a battery when the smoke detector is beeping. However since your detector is new I have to ask if you pulled out the plastic battery tab that prevents the detector from draining the battery before it’s purchased? If the tab is still in the detector essentially thinks there’s no battery in it.
@@TheRenderQ Yes, I have seen that...but the Kidde i have has no battery and it's directly connected to the wires.
Why change the wiring harness when there's nothing within the wiring to wear out? It would seem there would be a greater likelihood of damaging the existing wiring configuration by changing something that doesn't actually require changing. Any discussion on this?
There’s really no reason to change the wiring harness on the smoke detector if the old and new one is exactly the same. Partly I was showing this for demonstration purposes but also partly because the existing detectors are really old and I just decided to put all new connectors on there. If the existing connector is usable then the replacement of the smoke detector is super easy! Thanks for watching!
Great video but I was just wondering before I open the packaging for my new ones, what if the wire colours in your replacement one don't match what's coming out of the ceiling? How do you know which ones to connect to which ones?
Usually red is live and black is zero. If you are not sure, you can use voltmeter to check. If the number is negative, swich around.
@@user-ec7rh9dk5i Thank you :)
@@user-ec7rh9dk5i The Black and white go to black and white but my old one has a Green that looks like a ground.
Is the Red wire live or a ground? I also have a yellow wire coming out of the ceiling.
The wires in my ceiling are connected to a transformer and it has red, white, black and yellow wires. Where do I connect the yellow wire? The old kid a smoke detector had a yellow wire along with a white and black wires.
@@leroythemaster4268 Then you may need to check your local electric code. I am not electrician
Is it necessary to replace the wiring harness. My house was built in 2007 and the smoke detectors were installed at that time.
Thanks for your question! With the smoke detectors I replaced I didn’t necessarily have to replace the wiring harness because I bought the same brand and the wiring harness was the same. But if you buy a different brand than what you have in your house you will definitely have to change the wiring harness. Even same brands may update their wiring connectors so chances are pretty high you will need to replace the harness. Hope this helps!
There are adapters for the more popular models/brands - for example FireEx/Kidde to First Choice and vice versa.
just wish to say, if you have a high ceiling how do you change the battery,
Sorry I won’t be much help for you! I’m not sure why they install things like smoke detectors in a high place where you can’t reach it with a normal ladder! I have a rent house with one light that is 2 stories high. It is not easy even with the pole that’s supposed to help. In your case you need a very tall ladder. If I had one like yours I’d probably consider having it moved if possible to a spot more convenient.
This just saved me so much money. Mom was gonna hire a $120/hr electrician.
Excellent! It’s a great feeling to be able to do a repair yourself and save money! Nice work! Thanks for watching!