Aico EI146E, EI144E User Manual

230V~ SMOKE & HEAT ALARMS

Ei140e Series

Instruction Manual

with Alkaline Battery Backup

Read and retain carefully for as long as the product
is being used. It contains vital information on the
operation and installation of your Alarm. The manual
should be regarded as part of the product.

If you are just installing the unit, the manual MUST
be given to the householder. The manual is to be
given to any subsequent user.

P/N B20412 Rev0

© Ei Electronics 2021

1

Installer Section

Quick Installation Guide

ALARM SHOULD BE CEILING MOUNTED AT LEAST 300mm FROM
WALLS & OBSTRUCTIONS, IDEALLY CENTRALLY IN ROOM/AREA

WIRE TO TERMINALS ON THE MOUNTING PLATE AND FIX

MOUNTING PLATE TO CEILING USING THE FIXINGS PROVIDED

LOCATE CORRECT SITING POINT

1

SLIDE ALARM ONTO MOUNTING PLATE. A CLICK SHOULD

BE HEARD AS THE TAMPER-PROOF CATCH ENGAGES

SLIDE ON ALARM

3

PRESS AND HOLD THE TEST BUTTON ON THE ALARM. THE

ALARM AND ANY OTHER INTERCONNECTED UNITS SHOULD SOUND

TEST ALARMS

4

FIX & WIRE MOUNTING PLATE

2

1. Introduction

The Ei140e series is supplied with an Easi-Fit base that
allows very quick and simple installation of the Smoke
Alarm, combined with simple detector head removal
and replacement. The Easi-Fit base automatically
connects both mains power and battery as the detector
head slides on to the Easi-Fit base.

Up to 12 Smoke/Heat Alarms can be interconnected so
that when one senses fire all the units alarm.

Interconnection can be achieved by hardwire or through
an RF mounting plate, the Ei168RC.

All Alarms feature a combined test/hush button.

2

1.1 Overview

Test / Hush
Button

Top View

Red LED
Alarm Indicator

Green LED
Power Indicator

Alarm
Sounder

Ei146e Optical Alarm

Smoke Entry
Vents

Alarm
Removal
Latch

Ei144e Heat Alarm

Heat Sensor
(Thermistor)

Alarm
Removal
Latch

3

1.2 Technical Specications

Power Supply 230V AC, 50Hz

Power Consumption 0.25W (standby)

Max Current Draw 60mA

Battery Backup 9V Replaceable Alkaline battery

Alarm Sounder Piezoelectric Horn

Alarm Sound Level 85dB(A) at 3 meters (min)

Checks sensors, electronics,
interconnection (when applicable)

Test/Hush Button

and sounder.
If the unit is in alarm when
pressed, it silences the alarm for
10min

Green LED – Power supply

Visual indicators

Red LED – Self-test, alarm (if
coincides with horn sounding),
hush mode, memory or fault

Operational Life 10 years

Up to 12 units can be

Interconnection

interconnected via a hardwired or
wireless system (using optional
Ei168RC mounting plate)

Supplied with Easi-fit anti-tamper

Fixings

mounting plate with integral
terminal block and wiring cover,
includes screws and wall plugs

Operating & Storage
Temperature

Humidity Range

Plastic Material

Dimensions

-10°C to +40°C*

15% to 95% RH
(non-condensing)

(UL94V-0 flame retardant

HIPS
rated)

Ei146e: Product - Ø148mm x 50mm
Package - 155mm x 155mm x 62mm
Ei14 4e: Product: - Ø148mm x 61mm
Package:

Weight 350g (including packaging)

Warranty 5 years (limited)

KM522831, KM83678,

Approvals

EN14604:2005+AC 2008,
BS5446 -2:2003

* Temperature and Humidity conditions are for normal operation and

storage. The Alarms will function outside these ranges as required
by the specific product standards. Extended exposure to conditions
outside these ranges can reduce product life. For advice on
prolonged operation outside these range consult the manufacturer.

4

2. Installation

2.1 Important Safety Instructions
WARNING: Mains operated Alarms must be installed

and interconnected by a qualified electrician in
accordance with the local appropriate Regulations
for Electrical Installations. Failure to install this Alarm
correctly may expose the user to shock or fire hazards
and damage the product.

The Alarm is designed to be permanently mounted,
using its own built-in terminal block to connect it to the
mains. The mounting plate can be screwed directly to
the ceiling. Alternatively, it can be screwed to a standard
junction box (BS 4662 single gang accessory box). The
Alarm must not be exposed to dripping or splashing.

There are important markings on the underside of the
Alarm.

WARNING: An all-pole mains switch shall be
incorporated in the electrical installation of the building.

WARNING: Batteries (battery pack or batteries
installed) shall not be exposed to excessive heat such
as sunshine, fire or the like.

ATTENTION: Alternative Energy Sources - (Wind,
Solar, UPS etc.)

This product is designed to be connected to a Pure or
True Sine Wave 230V AC supply.

If connecting to a power source that utilises an inverter,
e.g. PV solar panel, the Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)
must be less than 5%. If in doubt, please check with the
manufacturer of the inverter. This also applies to battery
powered UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) inverters.

ATTENTION: Light Dimmer Circuits – The Alarms must
not be powered from a light dimmer circuit.

ATTENTION: Do not install Alarms in new or renovated
buildings until all work is completed.

ATTENTION: The Alarm must not be connected when
the house wiring insulation is being checked with high
voltages. i.e. Do not use a high voltage insulation tester
on the Alarm.

ATTENTION: The Alarm must be continuously powered
24 hours a day so it is important that it is not on a circuit
that can be turned off by a switch.

ATTENTION: (UK) BS 5839-6:2019 gives the following
recommendations regarding the mains supply to be
used in a Grade D system. The power supply for the
Alarms should be derived from the public electricity
supply to the dwelling. The mains supply to the Alarms
should take the form of either:

(a) an independent circuit at the dwelling’s main distribution

board, in which case no other electrical equipment

5

should be connected to this circuit (other than the
supply to a dedicated social alarm control unit); or

(b) a separately electrically protected, regularly used

local lighting circuit.

(See BS 5839-6:2019 for further information).

2.2 Where to Locate the Alarm?

The advice here follows the guidance in British Standard
BS 5839-6:2019 in general (for further information refer
to the standard).

The main reason for fitting Smoke/Heat Alarms in
dwellings is to ensure that when there is a fire, sufficient
early warning is given so that everybody can escape
safely. This means that the Smoke/Heat Alarms should
ideally be located near all potential sources of fires and
that the alarm should be heard throughout the house –
particularly in the bedrooms.

It is also important that nuisance/false alarms are minimised
to ensure the Alarms are not disabled or ignored.

A single Smoke Alarm will give some protection if it is
properly installed, but most homes will require two or
more to ensure that a reliable early warning is given.
For recommended protection you should put individual
Smoke Alarms in all rooms where fire is most likely to
break out (apart from the kitchen and bathroom).

BS 5839-6:2019 gives guidance on:

- how many Alarms to install

- what type of Alarm to use

- where to position Alarms
The above points will depend on the type of dwelling to

be protected and the level of fire risk.

Fire Risk Assessment

The ‘Grade’ and ‘Category’ of system that should
be installed depends on the fire risk. It is therefore
recommended that a Fire Risk Assessment is
undertaken. The Risk Assessment would be based on a
combination of probabilities:

- fire occurring

- injury or death to occupant

- system operating correctly with a fire

- early detection and warning to occupants in the event
of a fire

The greater the risks, the more comprehensive and
reliable systems needs to be.

LD (Life protection in Dwellings) Systems define the level
of fire protection required for households, depending
on the fire risk and regulations. Aico/Ei Electronics
recommends that an LD1 system be installed for
optimum protection.

6

for dwellings where occupants may be at high risk (e.g. elderly)

for new or materially altered dwellings or existing dwellings

with poor structural fire precautions

UK Requirements

OPTIMUM PROTECTION

Optimum Protection LD1: As LD2, but also including

attics / lofts / other spaces in which a fire might start
(apart from toilets or bathroom).

Interconnect all Alarms

Basic Protection LD2: all circulation areas that form
part of an escaper route within the dwelling, and all high
fire risk areas / rooms e.g. kitchen, living rooms, garages
and all bedrooms (apart from toilets or bathroom).

Interconnect all Alarms

Heat Alarms located in:

(Heat Alarms must be within 5.3m of potential fire
sources)

each Kitchen

Multi-Sensor or Heat Alarms located in:

each Living room (i.e. most frequently used
daytime room)

Multi-Sensor or Smoke Alarms located:

on each storey
every 7.5 m of hallways and escape routes
within 3m of all bedroom doors

Multi-Sensor
Fire Alarm

(apart from toilets & bathrooms )

BASIC PROTECTION

OPTIMUM PROTECTION

ROI Requirements

for dwellings where occupants may be at high risk (e.g. elderly)

Optimum Protection LD1: As LD2, but in addition

Smoke or Heat Alarms should be located in all rooms
and other areas of the dwelling.
(apart from toilets or bathroom)

Interconnect all Alarms

BASIC PROTECTION

for new or materially altered dwellings or existing dwellings

with poor structural fire precautions

Basic Protection LD2: Smoke or Heat Alarms in all

rooms or areas that present a high fire risk to occupants.
(apart from toilets or bathroom)

Interconnect all Alarms

Multi-Sensor or Smoke Alarms located:

on each storey
every 7.5 m of hallways and escape routes
within 3m of all bedroom doors

(apart from toilets & bathrooms )

Heat Alarms located in:

each Kitchen
(Heat Alarms must be within 5.3m of potential fire
sources)

Multi-Sensor or Heat Alarms located in:

each Living room (i.e. most frequently used

daytime room)

(BS 5839-6:2019)

Multi-Sensor
Fire Alarm

Optical
Smoke Alarm

7

Heat
Alarm

do not
fit Alarm

2.3 Which Alarm in what Room?

Selecting Alarm Type

Location

Hall, Corridors,
Escape routes

Kitchens / Garages

Living Rooms

Bedrooms

Shower /
Bathrooms

Ei14 6 e

Optical

Smoke Alarm

✔ ✗

✗ ✔ (iii)

✔ ✔ (ii)

✔ ✗

✗ ✗

Ei14 4 e

Heat

Alarm (i)

(i) A Heat Alarm should only be used in a room adjoining

an escape route, in conjunction with Multi-Sensor
Fire Alarms or Smoke Alarms on the escape routes.
All the Alarms should be interconnected to ensure
the early warning will be heard.

(ii) Some Fire authorities (concerned with the slow

response of Heat Alarms) advise that Multi-Sensor
Fire Alarms or Smoke Alarms should be fitted in
living rooms. This is acceptable according to BS
5839-6:2019 provided there are clearly not going to
be problems with nuisance alarms. Fit Heat Alarms
only if nuisance alarms are very likely and it is
acceptable that a warning will only be given by the
Heat Alarm when there is a very significant flaming
fire in the room. If the door(s) and windows are not
closed to contain the fire and heat, it is extremely
unlikely that the Heat Alarm would respond before
a Multi-Sensor Fire Alarm or Smoke Alarm sited
outside in the corridor.

(iii) In enclosed kitchens with doors closed.

8

Improved Audibility

300mm

300mm (min)

The effectiveness of a Category LD2 system can
be significantly enhanced if an additional Alarm
(interconnected) is installed in the master bedroom. This
will help ensure that a responsible person will quickly
be alerted to a fire and can arrange for an orderly
evacuation of children and other vulnerable occupants.

Grade D System

The mains powered Smoke and Heat Alarms with
battery back-up, covered by these instructions are
suitable for the requirements for a Grade D System.

A Grade D system is needed for:

- New or materially altered dwellings up to three-storeys,
with no floor over 200m2 in area.

- Existing dwellings with poor structural fire precautions,
up to three storeys, with no floor over 200m2 in area.

- Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) of one or
two-storeys, with no floor over 200m2 in area.

- Individual dwellings units of two or more rooms in
HMOs.

Check that a Grade D system is adequate for the
dwelling into which the system is being installed.

2.4 Where in the Room?

The locations must comply with applicable building
regulations.

Fi g.1

Ceiling Mounting

Hot smoke rises and spreads out, so a central ceiling
position is the preferred location. The air is “dead” and
does not move in corners, therefore Alarms must be
mounted away from corners. Fit the Alarm:

- At least 300mm away from walls. (see Figure 1).

- At least 300mm from any light fitting or decorative

object which might obstruct smoke / heat entering the
Alarm.

9

Wall mounting (Ei146e only)

300mm

300mm (min)

150mm

to 300mm

SMOKE ALARMS

<600mm

HEAT ALARMS

<150mm

APEX

xx

If ceiling mounting is impractical, only the Ei146e Optical
Smoke Alarm may be mounted on a wall, provided that:

a) the top of the detection element is between 150mm

and 300mm below the ceiling (see Figure 2);

b) the bottom of the detection element is above the level

of any door openings;

Wall mounting should only be considered where close
spaced beams or similar obstructions may preclude
ceiling mounting. It is considered to be the responsibility
of the installer/client to determine if the presence of
asbestos in the ceiling material would make ceiling
mounting ‘impractical’.

Fig.2

Sloping Ceiling

With a sloping or peaked ceiling install a Smoke Alarm
within 600mm of the peak (measured vertically) and a
Heat Alarm within 150mm.

If the height of the peak is less than 600mm in the case
of Smoke Alarms or 150mm in the case of Heat Alarms,
it is regarded as being flat. (see Figure 3).

10

Fig.3

2.5 Locations To Avoid

DON’T place Smoke or Heat Alarms in any of the
following areas:

• Bathrooms, shower rooms or other rooms where the
Alarm may be triggered by steam, condensation.

• Places where the normal temperature can exceed
40°C or be below -10°C (e.g. furnace rooms, directly
above ovens or kettles etc.) as the heat/steam could
cause nuisance alarms.

• Near a decorative object, door, light fitting, window
moulding etc., that may prevent heat or smoke from
entering the Alarm.

• Surfaces that are normally warmer or colder than the
rest of the room (e.g. attic hatches).
Temperature differences might stop heat or smoke
from reaching the Alarm.

• Next to or directly above heaters or air conditioning
vents, windows, wall vents etc. where air draughts
can change the direction of airflow and cause rapid
temperature fluctuations.

• In very high or awkward areas (e.g. over stairwells)
where it may be difficult to reach the Alarm (for testing,
hushing etc.).

• In or near very dusty or dirty areas as dust build-up on
the optical smoke sensor can impair performance. It
can block the insect screen mesh and prevent smoke
from entering the sensor. Dust build up can also
increase the response time of the heat sensor.

• Locate the Alarm at least 1m from dimmer controlled
lights and wiring as some dimmers can cause
interference.

• Locate the Alarm at least 1.5m and route wiring
at least 1m away from fluorescent light fittings as
electrical “noise” and/or flickering may affect the
Alarm. Do not wire into the same circuit as fluorescent
lights or dimmers.

• In insect infested areas. Small insects getting into
the optical smoke sensor can cause intermittent false
alarms. Insects and contamination on the heat sensor
can increase its response time.

• In a damp or humid area.

Do not locate Heat Alarms directly above a sink or
cooker – Keep at least 1 m horizontal distance between
these items and the Alarm.

11

2.6 Mounting and Wiring

FOAM CEILING GASKET

INSERT SCREWDRIVER

TO LIFT AND REMOVE

WIRING COVER

Disconnect the AC mains supply from the circuit that is
going to be used.

WARNING: to prevent injury, this apparatus must be
securely attached to the ceiling or wall in accordance
with the installation instructions.

1. Select a location complying with the advice in the

previous sections.

2. Place the mounting plate exactly where you want

to mount the Alarm. With a pencil mark the location
of the two screw holes. Taking care to avoid any
electrical wiring in the ceiling/wall, drill holes using
a 5.0mm drill bit through the centre of the marked
locations. Push the plastic screw anchors provided
into the drilled holes.

3. Lift off the wiring cover using a flat head screwdriver

as shown in Figure 4.

The house wiring must be connected to the terminal block
on the mounting plate as follows:

L: Live - connect to the house wires coloured brown or
marked L.
N: Neutral - connect to the house wires coloured blue
or marked N.

Fig.4

WARNING: Wiring must be installed in compliance with
local regulations.

WARNING: Mixing (or poorly terminating) the Live and
Neutral connections when interconnecting Alarms may
damage all the Alarms - ensure that the same colour
wires are used throughout the premises for Live, Neutral
and Interconnect wires.

We strongly recommend that you check for the following
before connecting the Alarm:

• check for Live and Neutral using a two probe tester.

• check for Live using a neon tester.

• check that the Interconnect wire is NOT connected to

Live, Neutral or Earth. Do not use an Earth wire for the

Interconnect line.

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Note: The Alarm does not need to be earthed. However
the terminal marked is provided for the convenience
of the installer so that any copper Earth wire or cable
coloured green and yellow, can be safely terminated.

To interconnect Alarms connect all the IC terminals
together as shown in Figure 7 (see section 2.7 -

Interconnecting Alarms).

4. If the mains wires are recessed, bring the wires

through the rear hole in the mounting plate as shown
in Figure 5.

If the mains wires are being brought along the surface:

(a) position the mounting plate so the cable trunking is

as shown in Figure 5.

(b) the mounting plate has a removable section, take it

out to interface directly with 25mm conduit as shown
in Figure 6. If interfacing to 16mm conduit carefully
cut around the marked section, leaving the top intact
and replace the section. (If you are not using surface
wiring, the removable section must be left in place for
electrical safety reasons).

REMOVEABLE

TRUNKING DOOR FOR

Fig.5

There are two other positions which are also suitable for
the surface wiring to enter (and exit) the alarm, one next
to the removable section and another directly opposite.

Fig.6

5. Carefully align the mounting plate and screw into

place. Connect the wires to the terminal block.
With recessed wiring, ensure the rear gasket seals
around the edge of the hole in the ceiling or wall.
This is to prevent air draughts affecting the smoke/
heat entering the Alarm. If the hole is too large or
the Alarm does not seal it, it should be sealed with
silicone rubber or equivalent.

13

6. Replace the wiring cover.

7. Attach the battery to the battery snaps. Carefully line

up the Alarm on the mounting plate and slide on.

8. Press and hold the test/hush button for 10 seconds.

The horn will sound. On release of the test button
the local alarm will stop sounding immediately and
the interconnected Alarms will stop sounding a few
seconds later.

9. Connect the mains power to the Alarm circuit. Check

the green light is on.

10. Attach the ‘fuse board label” provided on or near the

distribution board and write in date installed and the
number of Alarms on the circuit.

11. Ensure the Alarm operates correctly – see section

3 - Maintaining your Alarm.

2.7 Interconnecting Alarms

With interconnected Alarms, when one device detects
fire, all will sound. All Alarms will sound but only Alarms
detecting the emergency event will be flashing their red
LED alarm indicator.

Heat Alarms must always be interconnected to
Smoke Alarms to ensure early warning. They are not
suitable as a fire safety device unless they are part of
a fire safety system i.e. when interconnected to one or
more Smoke Alarms.

Note: A maximum of 12 Alarms and accessory devices
can be interconnected in an Aico/Ei Electronics Alarm
system. If you wish to connect more than 12 Alarms,
contact the Aico Technical Department on 01691

664100.

WARNING: Do not hardwire interconnect mains
powered Alarms with low voltage or battery powered
Aico/Ei Electronics Alarms/devices or any other type
of Alarm produced by another manufacturer. Doing so
may damage the Alarms and could result in a shock or
fire hazard.

Systems using more than 3 or 4 Alarms must be very
carefully planned to ensure nuisance/false alarms are
not excessive. e.g. from cooking fumes or steam. The
following is suggested:

An Alarm Control Switch (model Ei1529RC) or
a Fire/CO Alarm Controller (model Ei450) should
be incorporated into the system and be readily
accessible to all occupants so that the source of an
alarm can be quickly identified.

14

Make electrical connections as shown in Figure 7.

Fig.7

In the UK it is recommended that the following coloured
cores are used (for example with triple flat 6243Y cable).

230V supply Brown
Neutral Grey - sleeved blue at terminations
Interconnect Black

The interconnect wire (minimum 0.75mm2 cable) must
be treated as if it was Live. It should be insulated and
sheathed.

A maximum of 250 metres of wire can be used (maximum
resistance between detectors 50 Ohms).

These Smoke/Heat Alarms should be interconnected
only within the confines of a single family living unit. If
they are connected between different units there may be
excessive nuisance/false alarms. Everybody may not be
aware that they are being tested or that it is a nuisance/
false alarm caused by cooking etc.

The Alarm can also be RF interconnected to other RF
Alarms and devices by fitting an Ei168RC mounting
plate. The Ei168RC will enable the Ei140e series
Alarms to communicate RF messages to other Ei
Electronics products such as the Ei450 RadioLINK
Alarm Controller where you can remotely locate, test
and hush your Ei140e Series Alarms using this wireless
controller.

For detailed user instructions on using the Ei168RC
with the Ei140e series, please consult the Ei168RC
instruction manual.

15

2.8 Removing the Alarm

WARNING: Disconnect mains before removal

Locate removal slot

Locate the arrow on the front face of the Alarm.

The slot is located directly above

Insert screwdriver

Insert a flat-bladed screwdriver horizontally

about 10mm into the centre of the removal slot

Slide Alarm off mounting plate

With the screwdriver still inserted, push the lower

half of the Alarm away from the screwdriver, in the

direction of the arrows on the cover

Remove Alarm

Hold the lower half of the Alarm and remove from
the mounting plate by lowering the Alarm towards

the floor

16

User Section

Check power

Test

Check that there is a constant green light

on the cover

Press the test/hush button for 10 seconds.

The Alarm will sound loudly

3. Maintaining your Alarm

3.1 Testing your Alarm

Frequent testing of all your Alarms is a requirement to
ensure they are functioning correctly. Guidelines and
best practices for testing are as follows:

1. After the system is installed.

2. Once monthly thereafter.

3. After prolonged absence from the dwelling (e.g. after
holiday period).

4. After repair or servicing of any of the systems
elements or household electrical works.

Inspecting and Testing procedure

(i) Check that the green LED power indicator is on

continuously. (If it is off, check circuit breakers, fuses
and wiring etc.)

(ii) Check that the red LED on the cover flashes once

every 40 seconds to indicate normal operation – If
the memory has been set indicating that the Alarm
has been activated in the last 24 hours, the red LED
will flash twice every 40 seconds. After 24 hours,
the memory will be cleared or if the Test button is
pressed.

(iii) Check also that there are no faults i.e. NO chirps (if

this is the case please see indicator summary table).

17

(iv) Check for any sign of contamination such as

cobwebs or dust and clean the Alarm as described
in the “cleaning” section if necessary.

(v) Press the test button for up to 10 seconds to ensure

the sensor chamber, electronics and sounder are
working. A red light on the cover will flash while horn
is sounding. The alarm will stop when the button is
released. Pressing the test button is the best way to
ensure the Alarm is operating correctly. This action
will also clear the memory.

(vi) Interconnected Alarms only - Test the first unit by

pressing the button for 10 seconds. All the units
should alarm within 10 seconds of the first horn
sounding. The red light, on the first unit only, will
flash about once a second. On releasing the button,
the local Alarm will stop sounding immediately and
the remote Alarms will stop sounding approximately
3 seconds later (if testing using RF interconnection
this could take slightly longer). This feature gives an
audible verification that the interconnection is OK.
Check all the other Alarms in the same way.

(vii) Check the functioning of the battery back-up directly

after installation and then at least yearly as follows:

- Turn off the mains power at the distribution board

and check that the green LED is extinguished.

- Press the test button and ensure the horn sounds

loudly for 10 seconds.

- Monitor the Alarm over a 3-minute period for any

fault chirps and red LED fault indicator flashes
(Refer to Fault Mode table on what to do if this
occurs).

- Turn the mains supply at the distribution board back

on.

Switching off Mains for long periods

If the premises are regularly being left without mains
power for long periods the Smoke/Heat Alarms should
be removed from their mounting plates to prevent the
batteries becoming fully depleted. (This is sometimes
done with holiday homes which are only occupied in the
Summer).

The Alarms must be re-attached to the mounting plates
when the premises are re-occupied.

WARNING: DO NOT TEST WITH FLAME

This can set fire to the Alarm and damage the house.

We do not recommend testing with smoke or heat as
the results can be misleading unless effective apparatus
is used.

18

3.2 Changing the battery back up

NOTE: Constant exposure to high or low temperatures

or high humidity may reduce the life of the battery.

1. Switch off mains power to Alarm (green light on cover

should go out).

2. Remove unit as shown in “ALARM REMOVAL”

section on page 16.

3. Locate battery slot in base of Alarm as shown below.

4. Unclip battery from battery snap connectors.

5. Connect new battery by clipping back on to battery

snap connectors. Use only 9V Alkaline batteries
Duracell MN1604, Energizer 522. Other batteries can
cause problems.

We recommend that the “replace by date” on the
battery should still have at least 2 years to go. Older
batteries will give beeps prematurely.

6. Slide unit back on to the base. A click should be

heard as the Alarm engages. (The unit cannot be
replaced on the base unless a battery is installed).

7. Press and hold the test button - horn should sound

loudly.

Reinstate mains power to Alarm (green light on cover
should come on).

3.3 Cleaning your Alarm

Clean your Alarm regularly. In dusty areas it may be
necessary to clean the Alarm more frequently.

Vacuum

Vacuum around the side vents to clean

19

Vacuum

Vacuum around the side vents to clean

Wipe

Clean the Alarm with a clean damp cloth

and dry thoroughly

Use the narrow nozzle attachment of your vacuum
cleaner to remove dust, insects and cobwebs from the
sides and cover slots where the airflow enters. Clean
the outside cover by occasionally wiping with a clean
damp cloth then dry thoroughly with a lint free cloth. Do
not use any cleaning agents, bleaches, detergents or
polishes, including those in aerosol cans.

WARNING: Do not paint your Alarm.

Other than the cleaning and changing the battery back
up described above, no other customer servicing of this
product is required. Repairs, when needed, must be
performed by the manufacturer.

All Alarms are prone to dust and insect ingress which
can cause nuisance/false alarms or failure to alarm.

In certain circumstances even with regular cleaning,
contamination can build up in the smoke sensing chamber
causing the Alarm to sound or fail. Contamination is
beyond our control, it is totally unpredictable and is
considered normal wear and tear.

For this reason, contamination is not covered by the
guarantee.

20

NEVER

4. What to do in case of alarm

WARNING: If your Alarm sounds and you are unsure of
the cause, it should be assumed that the alarm is due
to an actual fire and the dwelling should be evacuated
immediately.

1. Check room doors for heat

or smoke. Do not open a
hot door. Use an alternate
escape route. Close doors
behind you as you leave.

2. If smoke is heavy, crawl out,

staying close to floor. Take
short breaths, if possible,
through a wet cloth or hold
your breath. More people
die from smoke inhalation
than from flames.

3. Get out as fast as you can.

Do not stop for packing.
Have a prearranged meeting
place outside for all family
members. Check everybody
is there.

4. Call the Fire Brigade

immediately on a mobile
phone or from a neighbour’s
house. Make sure to call
the Brigade for all fires no
matter how small - fires can
suddenly spread. Also call
the Brigade even if the alarm
is automatically transmitted
to a remote manned centre

- the link may have failed.

5. NEVER re-enter a burning

house.

21

5. Indicators

Mode

Power up

Slide onto
mounting plate

Detecting re

Activated
via interconnect

Pressing Test/hush
Button on Alarm
detecting re

If there is a fault, in addition to the Red LED ash, the Alarm will chirp once

= AC power on

= LED ashing= Alarm

x 10mins

Standby

Testing
(Monthly)

Press and hold
test/hush button

Action Green LED

(power)

Red LED

(alarm)

Sound

Normal mode

In alarm mode

= Chirp

x 1

1

1

1

If the replace by date on the label at the side of the Alarm has passed, replace
the Alarm

1

x 1

Green LED

(power)

Red LED

(alarm)

What to doWhat it

means

Reconnect AC

mains power

AC mains o

Chirps

Fault modes indicators

Low battery

backup

every 40 sec

Alternating every 20 sec

Replace
Battery

every
40 sec

x 1

every

0.5 sec

x 1

every

0.5 sec

0-24h

x 2

every
40 sec

x 1

every
10 sec

What you hear / see

every
40 sec

x1

every
40 sec

x1

every
20 sec

x1

+

x1

x1

x1

Low battery

backup +

sensor fault

Sensor

fault

Replace

Alarm

Replace

Alarm

x1

Memory mode

Fault

Low battery
Backup

On release of
test/hush button

Faulty Sensor

Press and hold
test/hush button

Action Green LED

(power)

Red LED

(alarm)

Sound

Fault mode indicators when pressing test/hush button

x 1x 1

5.1 Indicator summary tables

22

5.2 Troubleshooting

1. YOUR ALARM DOES NOT SOUND WHEN YOU

PRESS THE TEST/HUSH BUTTON

(1) Check the Alarm is secured on the mounting

plate.

(2) Wait 15 seconds after connecting the power

before button testing.

(3) Hold button down firmly for at least 10 seconds.

(4) If the Alarm does not sound, then your Alarm

must be returned for repair or replacement – see
section 8.1 - Getting your Alarm serviced.

2. YOUR SMOKE ALARM SOUNDS FOR NO

APPARENT REASON

(1) If, after evacuating and observing the dwelling,

there is no sign of smoke, heat or noise to indicate
that there is a fire, check the house carefully in
case there is a small fire smoldering somewhere.

(2) Check for smoke, fumes, steam, very hot air etc.

(3) Locate the Alarm that sounds and has a flashing

red LED.

(4) If you have thoroughly investigated and are sure

that it is just a nuisance alarm, simply press the
Test/Hush button briefly to silence the Alarm for 10
minutes. This will also silence any interconnected
Alarms for the same period. When the Alarm is
in “Hush” mode the red LED will continue to flash
while it detects the presence of smoke or heat.
The Alarm will reset to normal functionality at the
end of the 10 minutes. If additional silenced time is
required, simply push the Test/Hush button again.

(5) If you experience frequent nuisance/false alarms,

it may be necessary to re-locate the Alarm away
from the source of the fumes or if it continues to
sound without smoke or heat being present and
cleaning the Alarm does not solve the problem, it
needs to be replaced.

3. INTERCONNECTED ALARMS DO NOT ALL

SOUND

(1) Hold test/hush button for at least 10 seconds to

ensure that the signal is transmitted to all the
interconnected Alarms.

(2) If this is not the case and you have a hardwired

interconnection, we recommend you consult a
qualified electrician.

(3) If the Alarm is fitted with an RF mounting plate for

wireless interconnection, check that all RF devices
are powered and are house-coded correctly.

23

4. PRESSING THE TEST/HUSH BUTTON DOES NOT

SILENCE THE ALARM

Always make sure that you are pressing the Test/
Hush button on the Alarm that sounds with the red
LED flashing.

5. YOUR ALARM CHIRPS/BEEPS/FLASHES

The Alarm automatically monitors the battery, sensor
and electronics periodically to ensure that all are
satisfactory. If a fault has been found, the Alarm
alerts the occupier to this via short chirps and red
LED flashes.

(1) If the battery is depleted, the Alarm will chirp and

flash the red LED at the same time once every 40
seconds. Replace the battery following the steps
indicated in section 3.2 - Changing the battery
back up.

(2) If the Alarm has found a fault with the sensor /

thermistor, it will chirp and flash the red LED but
NOT at the same time. In this case, the Alarm
must be returned for repair or replacement, see
Section 8 - Service and Guarantee.

(3) If both a low battery and a sensor/thermistor fault

exist at the same time, the Alarm will alternate a
chirp and flash of the red LED with a single chirp.
In this case, the Alarm must be returned for repair
or replacement, see section 8 - Service and
Guarantee.

24

6. Important Safeguards

When a fire system is installed, basic safety precautions
should always be followed, including those listed below:

• Please read all instructions.

• IMPORTANT: Experience has shown that children

may not be woken by fire alarm tones. It is important
that children are never left alone in a house. Families
should have a fire escape plan that is rehearsed, so
that everyone knows how to escape when fire occurs.
The immediate priority when fire occurs is to ensure
that any sleeping children are woken from sleep and
are immediately taken to a place of safety outside the
property, along with all other occupants. The fire and
rescue service should always be called without delay,
no matter how small the fire.

• Use the Testing of the Alarm as a means to familiarise

your family with the alarm sound and to practice fire
drills regularly with all family members. Rehearse
emergency escape plans so everyone at home
knows what to do in case the Alarm sounds. Further
information can be obtained from your local fire
prevention officer.

• To maintain sensitivity to Fire, do not paint or cover

the Alarm in any manner and; do not allow cobwebs,
dust or grease to accumulate.

• If the Alarm has been damaged in any way or does

not function properly, do not attempt a repair. Return
the Alarm - see section 8 - Service and Guarantee.

• This appliance is only intended for premises having a

residential type environment.

• Fire Alarms are not a substitute for insurance. The

supplier or manufacturer is not your insurer.

• Do not dispose of your Alarm in a fire.

25

7. Limitations of Fire Alarms

Smoke / Heat Alarms have significantly helped to
reduce the number of fire fatalities in countries where
they are widely installed.

However independent authorities have stated that these
systems may be ineffective in some fire situations.
There are a number of reasons for this:

- The Alarms will not work if the mains power supply

is off or disconnected and the backup battery is
depleted. Test regularly to ensure the power supply is
functioning as required.

- The Alarms will not detect fire if sufficient heat/smoke

does not reach the Alarms. Heat/smoke may be
prevented from reaching the Alarm if the fire is too
far away, for example, if the fire is on another floor,
behind a closed door, in a chimney, in a wall cavity,
or if the prevailing air drafts carry the heat/smoke
away. Installing Heat Alarms and Smoke Alarms
on both sides of closed doors and throughout the
house or premises as recommended in this leaflet will
significantly improve the probability of early detection.

- The Alarms may not be heard. An Alarm may not

wake a person who has taken drugs or alcohol.

- The Alarms may not detect every type of fire to give

sufficient early warning.

- The Alarms don’t last indefinitely. The manufacturer

recommends regular testing and replacement after,
at most, 10 years, as a precaution.

26

8. Service and Guarantee

8.1 Getting your Alarm serviced

If, within the guarantee period, your Alarm fails to
work after you have carefully read all the instructions,
checked the unit has been installed correctly, and is
receiving AC power (green LED on), then contact us.

If you are advised to return your Alarm, please ensure
that the Alarm is placed in a padded box, not attached
to the mounting plate (as the Alarm can give beeps
or alarm if the Test/Hush button is pressed during
shipping), with the proof of purchase and a note stating
the nature of the fault.

8.2 Guarantee

Ei Electronics guarantees this Alarm for five years from
the date of purchase against any defects that are due
to faulty materials or workmanship. If this Alarm should
become defective within the guarantee period, we shall
at our discretion repair or replace the faulty unit.

This guarantee only applies to normal conditions of use
and service, and does not include damage resulting from
accident, neglect, misuse, unauthorised dismantling,
or contamination howsoever caused. This guarantee
excludes incidental and consequential damage.

This guarantee does not apply to any product that has
been modified in any way by a third party or has been
fitted with a third party element.

Do not interfere with the Alarm or attempt to tamper with
it. This will invalidate the guarantee but more importantly
may expose the user to shock or fire hazards.

This guarantee is in addition to your statutory rights as
a consumer.

27

The crossed out wheelie bin symbol that is on your

Block E1

Ei Electronics, Shannon, Co. Clare, Ireland

Nominal activation conditions/ sensitivity,
response delay (response time) and
performance under fire condition

Operational reliability Pass

Tolerance to voltage supply Pass

Response delay and temperature resistance Pass

Vibration resistance Pass

Humidity resistance Pass

Corrosion resistance Pass

Electrical stability

The Declaration of Performance No. 21-0002 may be consulted
at www.eielectronics.com/compliance

EN14604:2005 + AC:2008

Smoke Alarm Devices:

Heat Alarm Devices:

Ei Electronics, Shannon, Co. Clare, Ireland

Nominal activation conditions/ sensitivity,
response delay (response time) and
performance under fire condition

Pass

Operational reliability Pass

Tolerance to voltage supply Pass

Response delay and temperature resistance Pass

Vibration resistance Pass

Humidity resistance Pass

Corrosion resistance Pass

Electrical stability

The Declaration of Performance No. 21-0002 may be consulted
at www.eielectronics.com/compliance

Pass

21

DoP No.21-0002

EN14604:2005 + AC:2008

Smoke Alarm Devices:

Ei146e

Heat Alarm Devices:

Ei144e

Fire Safety

2797

product indicates that this product should not be disposed
of via the normal household waste stream. Proper
disposal will prevent possible harm to the environment or
to human health. When disposing of this product please
separate it from other waste streams to ensure that it can
be recycled in an environmentally sound manner. For
more details on collection and proper disposal, please
contact your local government office or the retailer where
you purchased this product.

28

Ei Electronics, Shannon, Co. Clare, Ireland

Nominal activation conditions/ sensitivity,
response delay (response time) and
performance under fire condition

Pass

Operational reliability Pass

Tolerance to voltage supply Pass

Response delay and temperature resistance Pass

Vibration resistance Pass

Humidity resistance Pass

Corrosion resistance Pass

Electrical stability

The Declaration of Performance No. 21-0002 may be consulted
at www.eielectronics.com/compliance

Pass

21

DoP No.21-0002

EN14604:2005 + AC:2008

Smoke Alarm Devices:

Ei146e

Heat Alarm Devices:

Ei144e

Fire Safety

0086

29

Contact Us

Aico Ltd

Mile End Business Park, Maesbury Rd, Oswestry,

Shropshire SY10 8NR, U.K.

Tel: [phone]

www.aico.co.uk

Ei Electronics

Shannon, V14 H020, Co Clare, Ireland.

Tel: [phone]

www.eielectronics.com

30