5
6
1
3
4
Model PC910V
M08-0408-004 K1
05/13 Printed in Mexico
IMPORTANT! PLEASE READ CAREFULLY AND SAVE.
This user’s manual contains important information about your
Combination Carbon Monoxide & Smoke Alarm’s operation.
If you are installing this Alarm for use by others, you must leave
this manual—or a copy of it—with the end user.
10 YEAR COMBINATION CARBON MONOXIDE &
SMOKE ALARM WITH VOICE & LOCATION
Features:
•
Separate sensors to detect
smoke and CO; the two alarm
systems work independently
•
Voice with programmable
location
•
Separate audible and
visual signals to indicate
alarm levels of smoke or CO
•
Sealed-In Lithium Battery —
Sealed-in lithium power supply;
no battery replacement
required over the 10 year
life of the alarm.
USER’S MANUAL
UL STD 217
AND
UL STD 2034
CONFORMS TO
Para el manual del usuario en español,
por favor visite www.firstalert.com.
© 2013 BRK Brands, Inc. All rights reserved.
Distributed by BRK Brands, Inc.
3901 Liberty Street Road, Aurora, IL 60504-8122
Consumer Affairs: (800) 323-9005 • www.firstalert.com
INTRODUCTION
FIRE SAFETY TIPS
Follow safety rules and prevent hazardous situations: 1) Use smoking
materials properly. Never smoke in bed. 2) Keep matches or lighters
away from children; 3) Store flammable materials in proper containers;
4) Keep electrical appliances in good condition and don’t overload
electrical circuits; 5) Keep stoves, barbecue grills, fireplaces and
chimneys grease- and debris-free; 6) Never leave anything cooking
on the stove unattended; 7) Keep portable heaters and open flames,
like candles, away from flammable materials; 8) Don’t let rubbish
accumulate.
Keep alarms clean, and test them weekly. Replace alarms immediately
if they are not working properly. Smoke Alarms that do not work cannot
alert you to a fire. Keep at least one working fire extinguisher on every
floor, and an additional one in the kitchen. Have fire escape ladders or
other reliable means of escape from an upper floor in case stairs are
blocked.
BASIC SAFETY INFORMATION
• Dangers, Warnings, and Cautions alert you to important
operating instructions or to potentially hazardous situations.
Pay special attention to these items.
• This Smoke/CO Alarm is approved for use in single-family
residences. It is NOT designed for marine or RV use.
• This combination Smoke/Carbon Monoxide Alarm has two
separate alarms. The CO Alarm is not designed to detect fire
or any other gas. It will only indicate the presence of carbon
monoxide gas at the sensor. Carbon monoxide gas may be
present in other areas. The Smoke Alarm will only indicate
the presence of smoke that reaches the sensor. The Smoke
Alarm is not designed to sense gas, heat or flames.
• This unit will not operate without battery power. The
Smoke/CO Alarm cannot work until you activate the battery
power pack.
• NEVER ignore any alarm. See “If Your Smoke/CO Alarm
Sounds” for more information on how to respond to an
alarm. Failure to respond can result in injury or death.
• The Silence Features are for your convenience only and will
not correct a problem. See "Using the Silence Features" for
details. Always check your home for a potential problem
after any alarm. Failure to do so can result in injury or death.
• Test this Smoke/CO Alarm once a week. If the Alarm ever fails
to test correctly, have it replaced immediately! If the Alarm is
not working properly, it cannot alert you to a problem.
• This product is intended for use in ordinary indoor locations
of family living units. It is not designed to measure CO levels
in compliance with Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA) commercial or industrial standards.
Individuals with medical conditions that may make them
more sensitive to carbon monoxide may consider using
warning devices which provide audible and visual signals for
carbon monoxide concentrations under 30 ppm. For addi-
tional information on carbon monoxide and your medical
condition contact your physician.
All BRK
®
and First Alert
®
Smoke Alarms conform to regulatory
requirements, including UL217 and are designed to detect particles
of combustion. Smoke particles of varying number and size are
produced in all fires.
Ionization technology is generally more sensitive than photo-
electric technology at detecting small particles, which tend to
be produced in greater amounts by flaming fires, which con-
sume combustible materials rapidly and spread quickly. Sources of
these fires may include paper burning in a wastebasket, or a grease
fire in the kitchen.
Photoelectric technology is generally more sensitive than
ionization technology at detecting large particles, which tend to
be produced in greater amounts by smoldering fires, which may
smolder for hours before bursting into flame. Sources of these fires may
include cigarettes burning in couches or bedding.
For maximum protection, use both types of Smoke Alarms on each
level and in every bedroom of your home.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Fire Safety Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Basic Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Step By Step Guide to Programming This Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
What You Will See and Hear With This Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3
Where to Install This Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3
Where This Alarm Should NOT Be Installed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
How to Install This Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
If Your Smoke/CO Alarm Sounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
What To Do First–Identify The Type Of Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
If the CO Alarm Sounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
If the Smoke Alarm Sounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Using the Silence Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-5
Weekly Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Regular Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
What You Need To Know About CO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-6
What is CO? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Symptoms of CO Poisoning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Potential Sources of CO in the Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
How Can I Protect My Family From CO Poisoning? . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Regulatory Information For Smoke/CO Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-7
Regulatory Information for CO Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Regulatory Information for Smoke Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-7
Recommended Locations for Smoke Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-7
About Smoke Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Special Compliance Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-8
General Limitations Of Smoke/CO Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Troubleshooting Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-10
Limited Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-10
STEP BY STEP GUIDE TO PROGRAMMING
THIS ALARM
For First Time and When Activating Alarm
WHAT YOU WILL SEE AND HEAR WITH THIS ALARM
Under Normal Operations
Voice:
Silent
Power LED:
Flashes Green once a minute
Horn:
Silent
When You Test the Alarm
Voice:
“Testing.” “Warning, evacuate smoke in [Location, example:
“Kitchen”]. Evacuate.”
Horn: 3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps, voice
Power LED:
Flashes Red
followed by
Voice: “Warning, evacuate carbon monoxide in [Location, example:
“Kitchen”]. Evacuate.”
Horn:
4 beeps, pause, 4 beeps, voice
LED:
Flashes Red
If Battery Becomes Low
Voice:
“Please see manual.” Repeated every 5 hours
Horn: chirps once a minute
Power LED:
Flashes Green approximately once a minute
Action:
1. Activate Alarm (If the battery
has not been activated,
perform Step 8 on page 3).
Alarm Will Say:
“Welcome, First Alert Carbon
Monoxide and Smoke Alarm.”
“No location programmed” if first
time
or “[Location, example:
“Kitchen”] location programmed”
after activating Alarm.
“To select location, press and
hold test button now.”
2. Press & Hold Test Button if
you would like to program the
location or change the location
of the Alarm. Release button
after Alarm responds.
“To save location, press and hold
test button after location is
heard.” Alarm will speak list of
locations (see below).
3. After you hear the location of
where you are placing the
Alarm, Press & Hold the Test
Button.
“[Location, example: “Kitchen”]
location saved.”
If no location is chosen: “No
location saved.”
Your Alarm has now been programmed for the location of your choice.
Available locations:
Basement
Hallway
Office
Child’s Bedroom
Kitchen
Utility Room
Dining Room
Living Room
Family Room
Master Bedroom
Guest Bedroom
No Location
If Alarm is Not Operating Properly
Voice: “Detector error in [Location, example “Kitchen”], please see
manual.” Repeated every 5 hours
Horn:
3 chirps every minute
LED:
Three Green flashes approximately once a minute
Alarm has reached its End of Life
Voice: “Detector error in [Location, example “Basement”], please
see
manual.” Repeated every 5 hours
Horn:
5 chirps every minute
LED:
Five Green flashes approximately once a minute
Alarm Levels of CO are Detected
Voice: “Warning, evacuate carbon monoxide in [Location, example:
“Kitchen”]. Evacuate.” “____ ppm.”
Horn:
4 beeps, pause, 4 beeps, voice*
LED:
Flashes Red
*NOTE: If unit goes into CO alarm, the regular 4 beeps-brief pause
cycle will repeat for four minutes. After four minutes, the pause will
increase to one minute.
Smoke is Detected
Voice:
“Warning, evacuate smoke in [Location, example: “Kitchen”].
Evacuate.”
Horn:
3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps, voice
LED: Flashes Red
Smoke Alarm is Silenced
Voice:
Silent.
Horn:
Off
LED: Flashes Red
CO Alarm is Silenced
Voice:
Silent.
Horn:
Off
LED: Flashes Red
INSTALLATION
WHERE TO INSTALL THIS ALARM
Minimum coverage for Smoke Alarms, as recommended by the
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), is one Smoke Alarm on
every floor, in every sleeping area, and in every bedroom (See
“Regulatory Information For Smoke Alarms” for details on the NFPA
recommendations).
For CO Alarms, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
recommends that a CO Alarm should be centrally located outside of
each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms.
For added protection, install additional CO Alarms in each separate
bedroom, and on every level of your home.
NOTE: For added protection, install an additional Smoke/CO Alarm at
least 15 feet (4.6 meters) away from the furnace or fuel burning heat
source where possible. In smaller homes or in manufactured homes
where this distance cannot be maintained, install the Alarm as far away
as possible from the furnace or other fuel burning source. Installing the
Alarm closer than 15 feet (4.6 meters) will not harm the Alarm, but may
increase the frequency of unwanted alarms.
In general, install combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms:
•
On every level of your home, including finished attics and basements.
•
Inside every bedroom, especially if people sleep with the door partly
or completely closed.
•
In the hall near every sleeping area. If your home has multiple
sleeping areas, install a unit in each. If a hall is more than 40 feet
(12 meters) long, install a unit at each end.
•
At the top of first-to-second floor stairs.
•
At the bottom of the basement stairs.
•
For additional coverage, install Alarms in all rooms, halls, and
storage areas, where temperatures normally remain between 40˚ F
and 100˚ F (4.4˚ C and 37.8˚ C).
Recommended Placement
•
When installing on the wall, the top edge of Smoke Alarms should
be placed between 4 inches (102 mm) and 12 inches (305 mm)
from the wall/ceiling line. When installing on the ceiling, place the
alarm as close to the center as possible.
•
In either case, install at least 4 inches (102 mm) from where the
wall and ceiling meet. See “Avoiding Dead Air Spaces” for more
information.
NOTE: For any location, make sure no door or other obstruction could
keep carbon monoxide or smoke from reaching the Alarm. Continued...
SUGGESTED AREAS FOR INSTALLING
SMOKE ALARMS, CO ALARMS, AND COMBO UNITS
SMOKE ALARM WITH
SILENCE FEATURE
CO ALARMS
BOTH, OR COMBINATION
SMOKE/CO ALARMS
SMOKE ALARMS
KEY:
Suggested locations are based on
NFPA recommendations (NFPA 72
for Smoke Alarms and NFPA 720 for
Carbon Monoxide Alarms). Always
refer to national and local codes
before beginning any installation.
In new construction AC and AC/DC smoke alarms MUST
be interconnected to meet NFPA recommendations.
AVOIDING DEAD AIR SPACES
“Dead air” spaces may prevent smoke from reaching the Smoke/CO
Alarm. To avoid dead air spaces, follow installation recommendations
below.
On ceilings,
install Smoke/CO Alarms as close to the center of the
ceiling as possible. If this is not possible, install the Smoke/CO Alarm
at least 4 inches (102 mm) from the wall or corner.
For wall mounting (if allowed by building codes), the top edge of
Smoke/CO Alarms should be placed between 4 inches (102 mm) and
12 inches (305 mm) from the wall/ceiling line, below typical “dead air”
spaces.
On a peaked, gabled, or cathedral ceiling,
install first Smoke/CO
Alarm within 3 feet (0.9 meters) of the peak of the ceiling, measured
horizontally. Additional Smoke/CO Alarms may be required depending
on the length, angle, etc. of the ceiling's slope. Refer to NFPA 72 for
details on requirements for sloped or peaked ceilings.
Installing Smoke/CO Alarms in Mobile Homes
For minimum security install one Smoke/CO Alarm as close to each
sleeping area as possible. For more security, put one unit in each room.
Many older mobile homes (especially those built before 1978) have little
or no insulation. If your mobile home is not well insulated, or if you are
unsure of the amount of insulation, it is important to install units on
inside walls only.
WHERE THIS ALARM SHOULD NOT BE INSTALLED
Do NOT locate this Smoke/CO Alarm:
•
In garages, furnace rooms, crawl spaces and unfinished attics.
Avoid extremely dusty, dirty or greasy areas.
•
Where combustion particles are produced. Combustion particles
form when something burns. Areas to avoid include poorly ventilated
kitchens, garages, and furnace rooms. Keep units at least 20 feet
(6 meters) from the sources of combustion particles (stove, furnace,
water heater, space heater) if possible. In areas where a 20-foot
(6 meter) distance is not possible – in modular, mobile, or smaller
homes, for example – it is recommended the Smoke Alarm be
placed as far from these fuel-burning sources as possible. The
placement recommendations are intended to keep these Alarms at
a reasonable distance from a fuel-burning source, and thus reduce
“unwanted” alarms. Unwanted alarms can occur if a Smoke Alarm
is placed directly next to a fuel-burning source. Ventilate these
areas as much as possible.
•
Within 5 feet (1.5 meters) of any cooking appliance. In air streams
near kitchens. Air currents can draw cooking smoke into the smoke
sensor and cause unwanted alarms.
•
In extremely humid areas. This Alarm should be at least 10 feet
(3 meters) from a shower, sauna, humidifier, vaporizer, dishwasher,
laundry room, utility room, or other source of high humidity.
•
In direct sunlight.
•
In turbulent air, like near ceiling fans or open windows. Blowing air
may prevent CO or smoke from reaching the sensors.
•
In areas where temperature is colder than 40˚ F (4.4˚C) or hotter
than 100˚ F (37.8˚C). These areas include non-airconditioned crawl
spaces, unfinished attics, uninsulated or poorly insulated ceilings,
porches, and garages.
•
In insect infested areas. Insects can clog the openings to the
sensing chamber.
•
Less than 12 inches (305 mm) away from fluorescent lights.
Electrical “noise” can interfere with the sensor.
•
In “dead air” spaces. See “Avoiding Dead Air Spaces”.
2
INSTALLATION, Continued
HOW TO INSTALL THIS ALARM
This combination Smoke/CO Alarm was designed to be mounted on
the ceiling or wall. It is not a tabletop device. You must install this
device on the ceiling or wall as outlined below. Read “Where To Install
This Alarm” before starting.
Tools you will need: pencil, drill with 3/16” or 5mm drill bit,
flathead screwdriver, hammer.
• Do not install this unit over an electrical junction box. Air
currents around junction boxes can prevent smoke from
reaching the sensing chamber and prevent the unit from
alarming. Only AC powered units are intended for installation
over junction boxes.
NOTE: Be sure to mount the product in the orientation specified in
the next steps as this provides the most stability for mounting the
product to the wall or ceiling.
FOLLOW THESE SIMPLE STEPS:
1. Turn alarm upside down so the circular
shape is located in the upper left corner of
the alarm.
2. Slide mounting bracket to the left and lift to
separate it from the base.
3. Hold the mounting bracket against the ceiling
(or wall) so the arrow located on the mounting
plate is pointing to the left. (The circular shape
will now be in upper right-hand corner). Trace
around the insides of the mounting slots.
4. Put the unit where it won’t get covered with
dust when you drill the mounting holes.
5. Using a 3/16” (5 mm) drill bit, drill a hole through the center of the
oval outlines you traced in step #3.
6. Insert the plastic screw anchors (in the plastic bag with screws) into
the holes. Tap the screw anchors gently with a hammer, if necessary,
until they are flush with the ceiling or wall.
7. Attach the mounting bracket to the ceiling or wall.
8. Activate the battery. Move the activation switch to
center position against tab stop. Unit will not mount
on mounting bracket unless activated. Once unit is
activated, it cannot be turned off.
NOTE: After you activate the battery, the power indicator light may
flash. (If the unit alarms, the light will blink rapidly, and the horn will
repeatedly sound 3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps.)
9. Attach the Smoke/CO Alarm to the
mounting bracket. Line up the arrow
on the back of the unit to the arrow on
the mounting bracket. When the units
are lined up, slide the alarm to the right
until it snaps into place.
NOTE: Once the Smoke/CO Alarm is
snapped onto the mounting bracket,
you can rotate the Smoke/CO Alarm to
adjust the alignment.
10. Test the Alarm. See “Weekly Testing.”
1
Test/Silence Button
2
Power/Smoke and CO Alarm LED
3
Speaker
PARTS OF THIS SMOKE/CO ALARM
1
Mounting bracket
2
Mounting slots
IF YOUR SMOKE/CO ALARM SOUNDS
WHAT TO DO FIRST–IDENTIFY THE TYPE OF ALARM
OFF - ON - DISCHARGE
Type of Alarm
Carbon Monoxide (CO)
What You See and Hear
Voice:
“Warning, evacuate carbon
monoxide in [Location,
example: “Kitchen”].
Evacuate.” “____ ppm.”
Horn: 4 beeps, pause, 4 beeps,
voice
LED: Flashes Red
Smoke
Voice: “Warning, evacuate smoke
in [Location, example:
“Kitchen”]. Evacuate.”
Horn: 3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps,
voice
LED
: Flashes Red
IF THE CO ALARM SOUNDS
Actuation of your CO Alarm indicates the presence of carbon
monoxide (CO) which can kill you. In other words, when your CO
Alarm sounds, you must not ignore it!
IF THE CO ALARM SIGNAL SOUNDS:
1. Press the Test/Silence button.
2. Call your emergency services, fire department or 911. Write down
the number of your local emergency service here:
____________________________________________________________
3. Immediately move to fresh air—outdoors or by an open door or
window. Do a head count to check that all persons are accounted
for. Do not re-enter the premises, or move away from the open door
or window until the emergency services responder has arrived, the
premises have been aired out, and your CO Alarm remains in its
normal condition.
4. After following steps 1-3, if your CO Alarm reactivates within a
24-hour period, repeat steps 1-3 and call a qualified appliance
technician to investigate for sources of CO from fuel-burning
equipment and appliances, and inspect for proper operation of this
equipment. If problems are identified during this inspection have the
equipment serviced immediately. Note any combustion equipment
not inspected by the technician, and consult the manufacturers’
instructions, or contact the manufacturers directly, for more
information about CO safety and this equipment. Make sure that
motor vehicles are not, and have not, been operating in an attached
garage or adjacent to the residence. Write down the number of a
qualified appliance technician here:
____________________________________________________________
NOTE:
A qualified appliance technician is defined as “a person, firm,
corporation, or company that either in person or through a representa-
tive, is engaged in and responsible for the installation, testing, servicing,
or replacement of heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) equipment,
combustion appliances and equipment, and/or gas fireplaces or other
decorative combustion equipment.”
“ALARM-MOVE TO FRESH AIR”
If you hear the CO alarm horn and the CO red light is flashing,
move everyone to a source of fresh air.
DO NOT deactivate the Alarm!
AFTER AN ALARM
After the emergency responders arrive, the premises aired out, and
your CO Alarm remains in its normal condition, you can check what
the highest carbon monoxide level sensed was:
Action:
1. Press & Hold Test Button
Alarm Will Say:
“Highest carbon monoxide level
was ___ ppm. Please see manual.”
“To clear highest carbon monoxide
level, press and hold test button
now.”
2. Press & Hold Test Button, if you
would like to clear the highest
level sensed.
If you would like to keep the
highest level in memory, do
not press anything.
“Highest carbon monoxide level
cleared.”
Alarm will say nothing.
WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF FIRE
• Don’t panic; stay calm. Follow your family escape plan.
• Get out of the house as quickly as possible. Don’t stop to get
dressed or collect anything.
• Feel doors with the back of your hand before opening them. If a
door is cool, open it slowly. Don’t open a hot door. Keep doors
and windows closed, unless you must escape through them.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a cloth (preferably damp).
Take short, shallow breaths.
• Meet at your planned meeting place outside your home, and do
a head count to make sure everybody got out safely.
• Call the Fire Department as soon as possible from outside.
Give your address, then your name.
• Never go back inside a burning building for any reason.
• Contact your Fire Department for ideas on making your home
safer.
Alarms have various limitations. See "General Limitations of
Smoke/CO Alarms" for details.
SILENCING THE LOW BATTERY WARNING
This silence feature can temporarily quiet the low battery warning
“chirp” for up to 8 hours. You can silence the low battery warning
“chirp” by pressing the Test/Silence button on the alarm cover.
Once the low battery warning “chirp” silence feature is activated, the
unit continues to flash the Green light once a minute for 8 hours. After
8 hours, the low battery “chirp” will resume. Replace the Alarm as
soon as possible; this unit will not operate without battery power!
To deactivate this feature:
Press the Test/Silence button again. The
unit will go into Test Mode and the low battery warning will resume
(LED flashes and unit sounds “chirp” once a minute).
SILENCING THE END OF LIFE SIGNAL
This silence feature can temporarily quiet the End of Life warning
“chirp” for up to 2 days. You can silence the End of Life warning “chirp”
by pressing the Test/Silence button. The horn will chirp, acknowledging
that the End of Life silence feature has been activated.
After approximately 2 days, the End of Life “chirp” will resume.
WEEKLY TESTING
• NEVER use an open flame of any kind to test this unit. You
might accidentally damage or set fire to the unit or to your
home. NEVER use vehicle exhaust! Exhaust may cause
permanent damage and voids your warranty.
• DO NOT stand close to the Alarm when the horn is sounding.
Exposure at close range may be harmful to your hearing.
When testing, step away when horn starts sounding.
It is important to test this unit every week to make sure it is working
properly. Using the test button is the recommended way to test this
Smoke/CO Alarm.
You can test this Smoke/CO Alarm by pressing and holding the
Test/Silence button on the Alarm cover until Alarm Voice says “Testing”
(typically 3-5 seconds).
During testing, you will see and hear the following sequence:
• The Alarm Voice will say “Testing.” The Horn will sound 3 beeps,
pause, 3 beeps. The Alarm Voice will say “Warning, evacuate
smoke in [Location, example: “Kitchen”]. Evacuate.” The Power
LED flashes Red.
• Next the Horn will sound 4 beeps, pause, 4 beeps. The Alarm
Voice
will say “Warning, evacuate carbon monoxide in [Location,
example: “Kitchen”]. Evacuate.” The LED flashes Red.
If the unit does not alarm, make sure it has been activated correctly,
and test again. If the unit still does not alarm, replace it immediately.
USING THE SILENCE FEATURES
Never deactivate the unit to quiet an unwanted alarm. Deactivating
the alarm disables the unit and removes your protection.
The Silence Feature is intended to temporarily silence the horn while
you identify and correct the problem. Do not use the Silence Feature in
emergency situations. It will not correct a CO problem or extinguish a
fire.
The Silence Feature can temporarily quiet an unwanted alarm for several
minutes. You can silence this Smoke/CO Alarm by pressing the
Test/Silence button on the alarm cover for at least 3-5 seconds.
After the Test/Silence button is released, the Red LED blinks during the
silence mode.
Continued...
When the Smoke Alarm is
Silenced
When the CO Alarm is Silenced
The Smoke Alarm will remain
silent for up to 15 minutes, then
return to normal operation.
If the smoke has not cleared–or
continues to increase–the device
will go back into alarm.
The CO Alarm will remain silent
for up to 4 minutes.
After 4 minutes, if CO levels
remain potentially dangerous the
horn will start sounding again.
IF THE SMOKE ALARM SOUNDS
RESPONDING TO AN ALARM
•
If the unit alarms and you are not testing the unit, it is warning
you of a potentially dangerous situation that requires your
immediate attention. NEVER ignore any alarm. Ignoring the
alarm may result in injury or death.
•
Never remove the batteries from a battery operated Smoke/CO
Alarm to stop an unwanted alarm (caused by cooking smoke,
etc.). Removing batteries disables the alarm so it cannot sense
smoke, and removes your protection. Instead open a window
or fan the smoke away from the unit. The alarm will reset auto-
matically.
•
If the unit alarms get everyone out of the house immediately.
REGULAR MAINTENANCE
This unit has been designed to be as maintenance-free as possible, but
there are a few simple things you must do to keep it working properly.
•
Test it at least once a week.
•
Clean the Smoke/CO Alarm at least once a month; gently vacuum
the outside of the Smoke/CO Alarm using your household vacuum’s
soft brush attachment. A can of clean compressed air (sold at
computer or office supply stores) may also be used. Follow
manufacturer instructions for use. Test the Smoke/CO Alarm. Never
use water, cleaners or solvents since they may damage the unit.
•
If the Smoke/CO Alarm becomes contaminated by excessive dirt,
dust and/or grime, and cannot be cleaned to avoid unwanted
alarms, replace the unit immediately.
•
Relocate the unit if it sounds frequent unwanted alarms. See
“Where This Alarm Should Not Be Installed” for details.
Actual battery service life depends on the Smoke/CO Alarm and the
environment in which it is installed. Regardless of the manufacturer’s
suggested battery life, you MUST replace the Alarm immediately once
the unit starts “chirping” (the “low battery warning”).
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CO
WHAT IS CO?
CO is an invisible, odorless, tasteless gas produced when fossil fuels
do not burn completely, or are exposed to heat (usually fire). Electrical
appliances typically do not produce CO.
These fuels include:
Wood, coal, charcoal, oil, natural gas, gasoline,
kerosene, and propane.
Common appliances are often sources of CO. If they are not properly
maintained, are improperly ventilated, or malfunction, CO levels can
rise quickly. CO is a real danger now that homes are more energy
efficient. “Air-tight” homes with added insulation, sealed windows,
and other weatherproofing can “trap” CO inside.
SYMPTOMS OF CO POISONING
These symptoms are related to CO POISONING and should be
discussed with ALL household members.
Mild Exposure: Slight headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue (“flu-like”
symptoms).
Medium Exposure: Throbbing headache, drowsiness, confusion, fast
heart rate.
Extreme Exposure: Convulsions, unconsciousness, heart and lung
failure. Exposure to Carbon Monoxide can cause brain damage, death.
This CO Alarm measures exposure to CO over time. It alarms if CO
levels are extremely high in a short period of time, or if CO levels reach
a certain minimum over a long period of time. The CO Alarm generally
sounds an alarm before the onset of symptoms in average, healthy
adults. Why is this important? Because you need to be warned of a
potential CO problem while you can still react in time. In many reported
cases of CO exposure, victims may be aware that they are not feeling
well, but become disoriented and can no longer react well enough to
exit the building or get help. Also, young children and pets may be the
first affected. The average healthy adult might not feel any symptoms
when the CO Alarm sounds. However, people with cardiac or respiratory
problems, infants, unborn babies, pregnant mothers, or elderly people
can be more quickly and severely affected by CO. If you experience
even mild symptoms of CO poisoning, consult your doctor immediately!
FINDING THE SOURCE OF CO AFTER AN ALARM
Carbon monoxide is an odorless, invisible gas, which often makes it
difficult to locate the source of CO after an alarm. These are a few of
the factors that can make it difficult to locate sources of CO:
• House well ventilated before the investigator arrives.
• Problem caused by “backdrafting.”
• Transient CO problem caused by special circumstances.
Because CO may dissipate by the time an investigator arrives, it may
be difficult to locate the source of CO. BRK Brands, Inc. shall not be
obligated to pay for any carbon monoxide investigation or service
call.
TO PERMANENTLY DEACTIVATE THE SMOKE/CO
ALARM
After 10 years of operation or Low Battery
warning, deactivate the Alarm: Insert a tool
below edge where shown and break tab.
Then slide activation switch to discharge mode.
NOTE: At end of life or low battery indication (chirp): unit must be
put in to deactivation mode to discharge remaining stored energy
in battery. Unit will no longer function once put into this mode.
Unit will resist re-mounting.
POTENTIAL SOURCES OF CO IN THE HOME
Fuel-burning appliances like:
portable heater, gas or wood burning
fireplace, gas kitchen range or cook-
top, gas clothes dryer.
Damaged or insufficient venting:
corroded or disconnected water heater
vent pipe, leaking chimney pipe or flue,
or cracked heat exchanger, blocked or
clogged chimney opening.
Improper use of appliance/device:
operating a barbecue grill or vehicle
in an enclosed area (like a garage or
screened porch).
Transient CO Problems: “transient” or on-again-off-again CO problems
can be caused by outdoor conditions and other special circumstances.
The following conditions can result in transient CO situations:
1. Excessive spillage or reverse venting of fuel appliances caused by
outdoor conditions such as:
• Wind direction and/or velocity, including high, gusty winds.
Heavy air in the vent pipes (cold/humid air with extended
periods between cycles).
• Negative pressure differential resulting from the use of exhaust
fans.
• Several appliances running at the same time competing for
limited fresh air.
• Vent pipe connections vibrating loose from clothes dryers,
furnaces, or water heaters.
• Obstructions in or unconventional vent pipe designs which can
amplify the above situations.
2. Extended operation of unvented fuel burning devices (range, oven,
fireplace).
3. Temperature inversions, which can trap exhaust close to the
ground.
4. Car idling in an open or closed attached garage, or near a home.
These conditions are dangerous because they can trap exhaust in your
home. Since these conditions can come and go, they are also hard to
recreate during a CO investigation.
HOW CAN I PROTECT MY FAMILY FROM
CO POISONING?
A CO Alarm is an excellent means of protection. It monitors the air
and sounds a loud alarm before Carbon Monoxide levels become
threatening for average, healthy adults.
A CO Alarm is not a substitute for proper maintenance of home
appliances.
To help prevent CO problems and reduce the risk of CO poisoning:
• Clean chimneys and flues yearly. Keep them free of debris,
leaves, and nests for proper air flow. Also, have a professional
check for rust and corrosion, cracks, or separations. These
conditions can prevent proper air movement and cause
backdrafting. Never “cap” or cover a chimney in any way
that would block air flow.
• Test and maintain all fuel-burning equipment annually. Many
local gas or oil companies and HVAC companies offer appliance
inspections for a nominal fee.
• Make regular visual inspections of all fuel-burning appliances.
Check appliances for excessive rust and scaling. Also check the
flame on the burner and pilot lights. The flame should be blue.
A yellow flame means fuel is not being burned completely and
CO may be present. Keep the blower door on the furnace
closed. Use vents or fans when they are available on all fuel-
burning appliances. Make sure appliances are vented to the
outside. Do not grill or barbecue indoors, or in garages or on
screen porches.
• Check for exhaust backflow from CO sources. Check the draft
hood on an operating furnace for a backdraft. Look for cracks
on furnace heat exchangers.
• Check the house or garage on the other side of shared wall.
• Keep windows and doors open slightly. If you suspect that CO is
escaping into your home, open a window or a door. Opening
windows and doors can significantly decrease CO levels.
In addition, familiarize yourself with all enclosed materials. Read
this manual in its entirety, and make sure you understand what to
do if your CO Alarm sounds.
REGULATORY INFORMATION FOR
SMOKE/CO ALARMS
REGULATORY INFORMATION FOR CO ALARMS
WHAT LEVELS OF CO CAUSE AN ALARM?
Underwriters Laboratories Inc. Standard UL2034 requires residential
CO Alarms to sound when exposed to levels of CO and exposure times
as described below. They are measured in parts per million (ppm) of
CO over time (in minutes).
UL2034 Required Alarm Points*:
• If the alarm is exposed to 400 ppm of CO, IT MUST ALARM
BETWEEN 4 and 15 MINUTES.
• If the alarm is exposed to 150 ppm of CO, IT MUST ALARM
BETWEEN 10 and 50 MINUTES.
• If the alarm is exposed to 70 ppm if CO, IT MUST ALARM
BETWEEN 60 and 240 MINUTES.
* Approximately 10% COHb exposure at levels of 10% to 95% Relative
Humidity (RH).
The unit is designed not to alarm when exposed to a constant level of
30 ppm for 30 days.
CO Alarms are designed to alarm before there is an immediate life
threat. Since you cannot see or smell CO, never assume it’s not present.
•
An exposure to 100 ppm of CO for 20 minutes may not affect
average, healthy adults, but after 4 hours the same level may cause
headaches.
•
An exposure to 400 ppm of CO may cause headaches in average,
healthy adults after 35 minutes, but can cause death after 2 hours.
Standards: Underwriters Laboratories Inc. Single and Multiple Station
carbon monoxide alarms UL2034.
According to Underwriters Laboratories Inc. UL2034, Section 1-1.2:
“Carbon monoxide alarms covered by these requirements are intended
to respond to the presence of carbon monoxide from sources such as,
but not limited to, exhaust from internal-combustion engines, abnormal
operation of fuel-fired appliances, and fireplaces. CO Alarms are intended
to alarm at carbon monoxide levels below those that could cause a loss
of ability to react to the dangers of Carbon Monoxide exposure.” This
CO Alarm monitors the air at the Alarm, and is designed to alarm before
CO levels become life threatening. This allows you precious time to
leave the house and correct the problem. This is only possible if Alarms
are located, installed, and maintained as described in this manual.
Gas Detection at Typical Temperature and Humidity Ranges: The
CO Alarm is not formulated to detect CO levels below 30 ppm typically.
UL tested for false alarm resistance to Methane (500 ppm), Butane (300
ppm), Heptane (500 ppm), Ethyl Acetate (200 ppm), Isopropyl Alcohol
(200 ppm) and Carbon Dioxide (5000 ppm). Values measure gas and
vapor concentrations in parts per million.
Audible Alarm: 85 dB minimum at 10 feet (3 meters).
REGULATORY INFORMATION FOR SMOKE ALARMS
RECOMMENDED LOCATIONS FOR SMOKE ALARMS
Installing Smoke Alarms in Single-Family Residences
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), recommends one
Smoke Alarm on every floor, in every sleeping area, and in every
bedroom. In new construction, the Smoke Alarms must be AC powered
and interconnected. See “Agency Placement Recommendations” for
details. For additional coverage, it is recommended that you install a
Smoke Alarm in all rooms, halls, storage areas, finished attics, and
basements, where temperatures normally remain between 40˚ F (4.4˚ C)
and 100˚ F (37.8˚ C). Make sure no door or other obstruction could
keep smoke from reaching the Smoke Alarms.
Continued...
For Reprogramming
When it is necessary to reprogram the Alarm after the unit has been
activated and is in normal operation: Tap the Test button 5 times to
reset the Alarm to again access the programming menu.
