Smoke and CO alarm circuits playbook
Goal
Install smoke and CO alarm circuits with proper power, interconnection, and protection.
Inputs you must know before you start
- Required alarm locations and types.
- Circuit plan and panel capacity.
- Interconnection method and listing requirements.
- AFCI requirements for the project.
The path (in order)
- Identify required alarm locations and devices.
- Provide required power source and backup.
- Install interconnection wiring per listing.
- Apply AFCI requirements where required.
- Test alarms and document circuit labeling.
This is
A checklist for compliant alarm circuit installation in dwelling units.
This is not
A commercial fire alarm system design.
Inspection-ready checklist
- Alarm locations verified.
- Power and backup provided.
- Interconnection tested.
- AFCI compliance confirmed.
- Circuits labeled.
Worked example
A dwelling uses hardwired interconnected smoke/CO alarms with AFCI-protected circuits. Alarms are tested and the circuit is labeled at the panel.
Cross references
- Primary: 210.12, 760.41
- Secondary: 110.3(B)