Project Overview: Deploying Interconnected Detection for Optimal Protection

In this residence, we implemented a network of smoke/CO combo detectors alongside a recessed LED light, creating a layered safety net that complies with CEC mandates for whole-home coverage. The installation began with load calculations to dedicate a 120V circuit for the alarms, using 14/3 NM-B cable where the red conductor carries a 9V DC signal for interconnection, enabling all units to activate their 85 dB piezo sounders and test/hush functions simultaneously upon sensing smoke particles or CO levels exceeding 70 ppm. The recessed light, a 4-inch IC-rated LED with 800 lumens output, was wired on a separate switched circuit to prevent harmonic interference, with its driver/transformer mounted in the junction box for heat dissipation.

Technically, detectors were positioned using laser levels for precise spacing (no more than 9 meters apart per CEC 32-100), with bases screwed into joists at 16-inch centers using #8 fasteners for stability. Wiring connections involved stripping 5/8 inch insulation, twisting conductors (black/hot, white/neutral, green/ground, red/interconnect) with pliers for secure nutting (torqued to 20 in-lbs), and verifying loop integrity via multimeter (continuity <0.5 ohms, insulation >100 MΩ). The light's bezel was trimmed for flush fit, with thermal sensors cutting power at 90°C to avoid fire risks. Commissioning included aerosol smoke simulation and CO test gas application, confirming alarm latency under 30 seconds and automatic silence after 4 minutes, while light efficacy was measured at 100 lm/W for energy rebates.