What is the typical spacing requirement for conventional smoke detectors?

The typical spacing requirement for conventional smoke detectors is generally accepted to be about 30 feet. This guideline is established to ensure that smoke detectors can effectively sense smoke particles before they can reach a dangerous level in the environment. Spacing them at this distance is a balance between adequate coverage of the area and preventing false alarms due to environmental factors.

When smoke detectors are placed too far apart, there is a risk that they will not detect smoke in time to provide an adequate warning. Conversely, placing them too close together can lead to unnecessary alarms, especially in environments with dust or other particles that can trigger false positives. The 30-foot spacing allows for a comprehensive coverage area while minimizing the chances of being disrupted by non-emergency conditions.

In practice, installers might consider factors such as the specific characteristics of the environment, ceiling heights, and the presence of obstructions when determining the exact placement of smoke detectors, but the guideline of 30 feet serves as a prudent starting point for conventional setups.