What is typically the required height for mounting smoke detectors?

The mounting height for smoke detectors is typically required to be at least 12 inches from the ceiling to ensure optimal performance in detecting smoke. This height allows for the effective recognition of smoke particles, as smoke rises and gathers near the ceiling. The 12-inch distance helps to position the smoke detector within the area where smoke is likely to accumulate first, improving the chances of early detection in case of a fire. Additionally, mounting smoke detectors at this height also takes into account variations in ceiling height and room configurations, enabling greater reliability across different environments.