Universal Security Instruments MIC3510S Manual Download Page 11

Page: 11 / 15

Page 11

NOTE:

A qualified appliance technician is defined as “a company engaged in and respon-

sible for the installation, testing, servicing, or replacement of heating, ventilation, air condi-

tioning (HVAC) equipment, combustion appliances and equipment, gas fireplaces or other

combustion equipment .”

Because carbon monoxide may dissipate by the time a first responder or investigator arrives, it may be difficult to
locate the source of CO . USI Electric/Universal Security Instruments shall not be obligated to pay for or reimburse the
user of this alarm for any carbon monoxide investigation or service calls . Fire departments, HVAC contractors and most
utility companies will perform CO inspections . Some may charge for this service . It is advisable to inquire about any
applicable fees prior to having the service performed

POTENTIAL SOURCES OF CARBON MONOXIDE

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, invisible, odorless, tasteless, poisonous gas produced

when fossil fuels do not burn completely, or are exposed to heat, usually fire. This alarm is not

designed to detect any other gas . This alarm will only indicate the presence of CO or smoke

which reaches the sensor . Carbon monoxide and natural gas may be present in other areas .

Fossil fuels

such as wood, charcoal, coal, natural gas, oil, gasoline, propane and kerosene produce CO .

Household appliances

may be sources of CO and include the gas kitchen range, cook top,

gas clothes dryer, heater, furnace, water heater, wood-burning stove, certain pool heaters,

fireplaces and portable space heathers. When they are not properly maintained, are improp-

erly ventilated, or malfunction, CO levels can rise quickly .

Electrical appliances

typically do not produce CO .

Energy efficient homes.

CO is a real danger now that homes are more “air-tight”, with

added insulation, sealed windows, and other weatherproofing can trap CO inside.

Damaged or insufficient venting

such as; corroded or disconnected water heaters, vent

pipes, leaking chimneys, pipes or flues or cracked heat exchangers, blocked or clogged

chimney openings .

Vent pipe connections

improperly designed or becoming loose .

Improper use of appliances

by operating a barbeque grill, using charcoal, gas or wood pel-

lets, hibachi in an enclosed area such as a garage or screened porch .

Vehicles and portable generators

operating in a garage or any area too close to the living space .

Transient CO problems

also known as on-again/off-again CO problems, can be caused by

outdoor conditions and other special circumstances .

Excessive spillage

or reverse venting of fuel-burning appliances .

Outdoor ambient conditions

and temperature inversions which can trap exhaust and pollut-

ants close to the ground .

Wind direction

or wind velocity pushing heavy air in the vent pipes back in to the dwelling .

Negative air pressure

caused by simultaneous operation of multiple fuel burning appliances

competing for limited internal air .

HOW CAN I PROTECT MY FAMILY FROM CO POISONING?

This alarm is an excellent means of protection. It monitors the air and sounds a loud alarm before (CO) levels

become threatening to the average, healthy adult .
An 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. 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 .

This alarm will not operate until it is activated and properly installed. This alarm

should be tested immediately after installation and then tested weekly after that. If