$60
Battery smoke alarm
Installation or replacement, mounting and operational test.
Home safety help in Irvine
Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms installed and tested.
Smoke detector installation and replacement in Irvine, plus carbon monoxide detectors and combination alarms. Update existing hardwired units or add battery-powered alarms where permitted.
Replace smoke alarms every 10 years
Smoke-only and smoke/CO combination alarms
Installation, replacement and testing
10years
Smoke alarms expire
Replace the entire smoke alarm every 10 years.
The sensing components become less reliable with age. Orange County Fire Authority recommends replacing the complete smoke alarm every 10 years—even if pressing the test button still produces a sound.
Check the manufacture or replacement date printed on the back of the alarm. Carbon monoxide and combination alarms can have different rated lifespans, so follow the end-of-life date and replacement instructions printed on the specific device.
Clear pricing
Smoke and carbon monoxide detector installation prices.
Current listed prices include labor and materials. For multiple alarms, text the quantity and whether the existing units are battery-powered or hardwired for a complete quote.
$65
Hardwired smoke alarm
Replacement at an existing hardwired location, with testing and interconnect check when applicable.
$85
Battery smoke/CO alarm
Combination alarm installation or replacement, mounting and operational test.
$95
Hardwired smoke/CO alarm
Combination alarm replacement at an existing hardwired location, with testing and interconnect check when applicable.
Prices apply to a standard compatible alarm and normal installation conditions. No new wiring is included.
Irvine placement guide
Which rooms need smoke or carbon monoxide alarms?
The two alarm types detect different hazards. A combination unit can cover both functions in the right location, but it does not remove the need for full coverage throughout the home.
Smoke alarm locations
- Inside every room used for sleeping
- Outside each separate sleeping area, near the bedrooms
- On every story of the home, including basements
- At least 3 feet horizontally from a bathroom door containing a tub or shower, unless that would prevent required placement
Carbon monoxide alarm locations
- Outside each separate sleeping area, near the bedrooms
- On every occupiable level, including basements
- Inside a bedroom when a fuel-burning appliance is in that bedroom or its attached bathroom
- Required coverage applies to homes with fuel-burning appliances, a fireplace, or an attached garage that communicates with the home
This planning summary follows the City of Irvine's current Smoke Detector & Carbon Monoxide Alarm Retrofit/Verification Requirements. Final placement follows the device manufacturer's instructions and any requirements that apply to the specific home or permitted project.
If a carbon monoxide alarm sounds
Move everyone and all pets outside immediately and call 9-1-1, following Orange County Fire Authority guidance.
Choosing the right alarm
Battery, hardwired or combination?
The best replacement usually matches the existing power and interconnection setup while meeting the coverage needed in that location.
Battery-powered
Useful for many permitted retrofit situations and homes without an existing hardwired alarm at that location. Battery use depends on the home's conditions and applicable rules.
Existing hardwired
Replaces an alarm already connected to household power. The new unit is connected, mounted and tested, including interconnection when applicable.
Smoke/CO combination
One device detects both smoke and carbon monoxide. Combination alarms work well where a location must provide both types of coverage.
Common questions
Smoke and CO alarm replacement in Irvine.
How often should smoke alarms be replaced?
Orange County Fire Authority recommends replacing the entire smoke alarm every 10 years and testing alarms monthly. A successful button test does not extend the sensing chamber's service life. Check the manufacture or replacement date on the back of the alarm.
Can you replace hardwired smoke alarms?
Yes. I replace alarms at existing hardwired locations and test operation and interconnection when applicable. New wiring is not included.
Can a combination smoke/CO alarm replace every smoke alarm?
Not necessarily. A combination alarm can satisfy both functions at an appropriate location, but the home still needs complete smoke and carbon monoxide coverage in all required locations.
Should all the alarms in a home be replaced together?
If the alarms are the same age or part of an interconnected system, replacing them together can simplify compatibility and keep replacement dates consistent. The existing models, dates and wiring should be checked first.
Do you install customer-supplied alarms?
Yes. Send the model before the appointment so compatibility with the existing power source, connector and interconnection setup can be reviewed.
Need smoke or CO alarms replaced?
Tell me how many alarms you have and whether they are battery-powered or hardwired.