In older mobile homes that are not well insulated compared to pres-
ent standards, extreme heat or cold can be transferred from the
outside to the inside through poorly insulated walls and roof. This
may create a thermal barrier which can prevent the smoke from
reaching an alarm mounted on the ceiling. In such units, install the
smoke alarm on an inside wall with the top edge of the alarm at a
minimum of 4” (10cm) and a maximum of 12” (30.5cm) below the
ceiling (see figure 1).
If you are not sure about the insulation in your mobile home, or if
you notice that the outer walls and ceiling are either hot or cold,
install the alarm on an inside wall. For minimum protection, install
at least one alarm close to the bedrooms. For additional protection,
see SINGLE FLOOR PLAN in figure 2.
WARNING: TEST YOUR SMOKE ALARM OPERATION AFTER RV
OR MOBILE HOME VEHICLE HAS BEEN IN STORAGE, BEFORE
EACH TRIP AND AT LEAST ONCE A WEEK DURING USE.
2. LOCATIONS TO AVOID
• In the garage. Products of combustion are present when you
start your automobile.
• Less than 4” (10cm) from the peak of an “A” frame type ceiling.
• In an area where the temperature may fall below 40ºF or rise
above 100ºF, such as garages and unfinished attics.
• In dusty areas. Dust particles may cause nuisance alarm or failure
to alarm.
• In very humid areas (greater than 85% R.H.). Moisture or steam
can cause nuisance alarms.
• In insect-infested areas.
• Smoke alarms should not be installed within 3 ft (.9m) of the fol-
lowing: the door to a kitchen, the door to a bathroom containing
a tub or shower, forced air supply ducts used for heating or cool-
ing, ceiling or whole house ventilating fans, or other high air flow
areas.
• Kitchens. Normal cooking may cause nuisance alarms. If a kitchen
alarm is desired, it should have an alarm silence feature or be a
photoelectric type.
• Near fluorescent lights. Electronic “noise” may cause nuisance
alarms.
• Smoke alarms are not to be used with detector guards unless the
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