First Alert PC910 User Manual

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USER’S MANUAL
SUGGESTED AREAS FOR INSTALLING 
SMOKE ALARMS, CO ALARMS, AND COMBO UNITS
SMOKE ALARM WITH  SILENCE FEATURE
CO ALARMS
B
OTH, OR COMBINATION 
SMOKE/CO ALARMS
SMOKE ALARMS
K
EY:
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.
ON DEACTIVATE
COMBINATION CARBON MONOXIDE
Features:
Separate sensors to
• etect smoke and CO;
d
he two alarm systems
t
ork independently
w
Sealed-In Lithium
attery — Sealed-in
B
ithium power supply;
l
o battery replacement
n
equired over the 10
r
ear life of the alarm.
y
IMPORTANT! PLEASE READ CAREFULLY AND SAVE.
This user’s manual contains important information about your
Combination Carbon Monoxide & Smoke Alarm’s operation.
this manual—or a copy of it—with the end user.
M
P
ABLE OF CONTENTS
T
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
ire Safety Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
F Basic Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
nstallation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3
I
here to Install This Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
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here This Alarm Should NOT Be Installed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
W
ow to Install This Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
H
eekly Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
W Regular Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
f Your Smoke/CO Alarm Sounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-5
I
hat To Do First–Identify The Type Of Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
W
f the CO Alarm Sounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
I
f the Smoke Alarm Sounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
I
sing the Silence Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-5
U
hat You Need To Know About CO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
W
hat is CO? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
W
ymptoms of CO Poisoning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
S
otential Sources of CO in the Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
P
How Can I Protect My Family From CO Poisoning? . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Regulatory Information For Smoke/CO Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-7
Regulatory Information for CO Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
egulatory Information for Smoke Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
R Recommended Locations for Smoke Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 About Smoke Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
pecial Compliance Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
S General Limitations Of Smoke/CO Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-9 Troubleshooting Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-9
imited Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-9
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© 2014 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
®
ll BRK
A
equirements, including UL217 and are designed to detect particles
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ume combustible materials rapidly and spread quickly. Sources of
s
hese fires may include paper burning in a wastebasket, or a grease
t
ire in the kitchen.
f
molder for hours before bursting into flame. Sources of these fires may
s
nclude cigarettes burning in couches or bedding.
i
For maximum protection, use both types of Smoke Alarms on each level and in every bedroom of your home.
nd First Alert
a
f combustion. Smoke particles of varying number and size are roduced in all fires.
onization technology is generally more sensitive than photo-
I
lectric technology at detecting small particles, which tend to
e
e produced in greater amounts by flaming fires, which con-
b
hotoelectric technology is generally more sensitive than
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onization technology at detecting large particles, which tend to
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e produced in greater amounts by smoldering fires, which may
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& SMOKE ALARM
L STD 217
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CONFORMS TO
08-0407-007 K1 02/14 Printed in Mexico
ara el manual del usuario en español,
or favor visite www.firstalert.com.
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®
moke Alarms conform to regulatory
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AND
L STD 2034
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Model PC910
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 addi­tional information on carbon monoxide and your medical condition contact your physician.
NSTALLATION
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WHERE TO INSTALL THIS ALARM
inimum coverage for Smoke Alarms, as recommended by the
M
ational Fire Protection Association (NFPA), is one Smoke Alarm on
N
very floor, in every sleeping area, and in every bedroom (See
e
Regulatory Information For Smoke Alarms” for details on the NFPA
ecommendations).
r
or CO Alarms, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
F
ecommends that a CO Alarm should be centrally located outside of
r
ach separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms.
e
or added protection, install additional CO Alarms in each separate
F
edroom, and on every level of your home.
b
OTE: For added protection, install an additional Smoke/CO Alarm at
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east 15 feet (4.6 meters) away from the furnace or fuel burning heat
l
ource where possible. In smaller homes or in manufactured homes
s
here this distance cannot be maintained, install the Alarm as far away
w
s possible from the furnace or other fuel burning source. Installing the
a
larm closer than 15 feet (4.6 meters) will not harm the Alarm, but may
A
ncrease the frequency of unwanted alarms.
i
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
leeping areas, install a unit in each. If a hall is more than 40 feet
s
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).
ECOMMENDED PLACEMENT
R
When installing on the wall, the top edge of Smoke Alarms should
e placed between 4 inches (102 mm) and 12 inches (305 mm)
b
rom the wall/ceiling line.
f When installing on the ceiling, place the alarm as close to the
enter as possible.
c In either case, install at least 4 inches (102 mm) from where the
all and ceiling meet. See “Avoiding Dead Air Spaces” for more
w
nformation.
i
OTE: For any location, make sure no door or other obstruction could
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eep carbon monoxide or smoke from reaching the Alarm.
k
Installing Smoke/CO Alarms in Mobile Homes
or minimum security install one Smoke/CO Alarm as close to each
F
leeping area as possible. For more security, put one unit in each room.
s
any older mobile homes (especially those built before 1978) have little
M
r no insulation. If your mobile home is not well insulated, or if you are
o
nsure of the amount of insulation, it is important to install units on
u
nside walls only.
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WHERE THIS ALARM SHOULD NOT BE INSTALLED
Do NOT locate this Smoke/CO Alarm:
In garages, furnace rooms, crawl spaces and unfinished attics.
void extremely dusty, dirty or greasy areas.
A 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/CO 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”.
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.
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.
PARTS OF THIS SMOKE/CO ALARM
1 Test/Silence Button 2 Power/Smoke Alarm and
CO Alarm LED
ounting bracket
1 M 2 Mounting slots
ools you will need: pencil, drill with 3/16” or 5mm drill bit,
T
Do not connect this unit to any other alarm or auxiliary device.
• It is a single-station unit that cannot be linked to other devices. Connecting anything else to this unit may prevent it from work­ing properly.
Do not install this unit over an electrical junction box. Air
urrents around junction boxes can prevent smoke from
c
eaching the sensing chamber and prevent the unit from
r
larming. Only AC powered units are intended for installation
a
ver junction boxes.
o
OTE: Be sure to mount the product in the orientation specified in
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he next steps as this provides the most stability for mounting the
t
roduct to the wall or ceiling.
p
OLLOW THESE SIMPLE STEPS:
F
. Turn alarm upside down so the circular
1
hape is located in the upper left corner of
s
he alarm.
t
. If mounting bracket is attached to alarm, lift
2
o separate it from the base.
t
. Hold the mounting bracket against the
3
eiling (or wall) so the arrow located on
c
he mounting plate is pointing to the left.
t
The circular shape will now be in upper
(
ight-hand corner). Trace around the
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nsides of the mounting slots.
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. Put the unit where it won’t get covered
4
ith dust when you drill the mounting
w
oles.
h
. Using a 3/16” (5 mm) drill bit, drill a hole through the center of the
5
val outlines you traced in step #3.
o
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. Line the mounting bracket up over the plastic screw anchors. Screw the mounting bracket to the ceiling or wall through the mounting slots using the two screws provided.
8. Activate the battery. Move the activation switch to “ON” 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. Hold alarm as shown in diagram. Place alarm on mounting bracket and slide to the right until locked 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 Smoke/CO Alarm. See “Weekly Testing.”
11. 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 DEACTIVATE mode.
NOTE: At end of life or low battery indication (chirp): unit must be put in to deactivation mode to deactivate remaining stored energy in battery. Unit will no longer function once put into this mode. Unit will resist re-mounting.
lathead screwdriver, hammer.
f
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. The built-in test switch accurately tests the unit’s operation as required by Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (UL). 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: Press and hold the Test/Silence
button 3-5 seconds until unit starts to alarm. During testing, you will see and hear the following sequence:
• The Horn will sound 3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps. The LED flashes
Red.
• Next the Horn will sound 4 beeps, pause, 4 beeps. 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.
EGULAR MAINTENANCE
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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”).
IF YOUR SMOKE/CO ALARM SOUNDS
WHAT TO DO FIRST–IDENTIFY THE TYPE OF ALARM
Type of Alarm
arbon Monoxide (CO)
C
moke Smoke LED: Flashes Red
S
IF THE CO ALARM SOUNDS
If you hear the CO alarm horn and the CO red light is flashing,
ctuation of your CO Alarm indicates the presence of carbon
A
onoxide (CO) which can kill you. In other words, when your CO
m
larm sounds, you must not ignore it!
A
F THE CO ALARM SIGNAL SOUNDS:
I
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:
___________________________________________________________
_
. Immediately move to fresh air—outdoors or by an open door or
3
indow. Do a head count to check that all persons are accounted
w
or. Do not re-enter the premises, or move away from the open door
f
r window until the emergency services responder has arrived, the
o
remises have been aired out, and your CO Alarm remains in its
p
ormal condition.
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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:
___________________________________________________________
_
OTE: A qualified appliance technician is defined as “a person, firm,
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orporation, or company that either in person or through a representa-
c
ive, is engaged in and responsible for the installation, testing, servicing,
t 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”
move everyone to a source of fresh air.
DO NOT deactivate the alarm!
IF THE SMOKE ALARM SOUNDS
ESPONDING TO AN ALARM
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• 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 auto­matically.
If the unit alarms get everyone out of the house immediately.
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.
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. Press 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.
When the Smoke 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.
What You See and Hear
O LED: Flashes Red
C
orn: 4 beeps, pause, 4 beeps,
H
ause
p
Horn: 3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps,
pause
When the CO Alarm is Silenced
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.
Continued...
4
SILENCING THE LOW BATTERY WARNING
This silence feature can temporarily quiet the low battery warning “chirp” for up to 8 hours. Press 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
his silence feature can temporarily quiet the End of Life warning
T
chirp” for up to 2 days. You can silence the End of Life warning “chirp”
y pressing the Test/Silence button. The horn will chirp, acknowledging
b
hat the End of Life silence feature has been activated.
t After approximately 2 days, the End of Life “chirp” will resume.
HAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CO
W
HAT IS CO?
W
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
hese symptoms are related to CO POISONING and should be
T
iscussed with ALL household members.
d
ild Exposure: Slight headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue (“flu-like”
M
ymptoms).
s 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.
his CO Alarm measures exposure to CO over time. It alarms if CO
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evels are extremely high in a short period of time, or if CO levels reach
l
certain minimum over a long period of time. The CO Alarm generally
a
ounds an alarm before the onset of symptoms in average, healthy
s
dults. Why is this important? Because you need to be warned of a
a
otential CO problem while you can still react in time. In many reported
p
ases of CO exposure, victims may be aware that they are not feeling
c
ell, but become disoriented and can no longer react well enough to
w 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
arbon monoxide is an odorless, invisible gas, which often makes it
C
ifficult to locate the source of CO after an alarm. These are a few of
d
he factors that can make it difficult to locate sources of CO:
t
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.
POTENTIAL SOURCES OF CO IN THE HOME
Fuel-burning appliances like:
portable heater, gas or wood burning fireplace, gas kitchen range or cook­top, gas clothes dryer.
amaged or insufficient venting:
D
orroded or disconnected water heater
c
ent pipe, leaking chimney pipe or flue,
v
r cracked heat exchanger, blocked or
o
logged chimney opening.
c
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.
he following conditions can result in transient CO situations:
T
. Excessive spillage or reverse venting of fuel appliances caused by
1
utdoor conditions such as:
o
• 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 limit-
ed fresh air.
• Vent pipe connections vibrating loose from clothes dryers, fur-
naces, 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.
5 61 2 3
EGULATORY INFORMATION FOR
R 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).
L2034 Required Alarm Points*:
U
If the alarm is exposed to 400 ppm of CO, IT MUST ALARM
• ETWEEN 4 and 15 MINUTES.
B
• 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
• ETWEEN
B
0 and 240 MINUTES.
6
* Approximately 10% COHb exposure at levels of 10% to 95% Relative Humidity (RH).
he unit is designed not to alarm when exposed to a constant level
T
f 30 ppm for 30 days.
o
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
• verage, healthy adults, but after 4 hours the same level may cause
a
eadaches.
h
• An exposure to 400 ppm of CO may cause headaches in average,
healthy adults after 35 minutes, but can cause death after 2 hours.
tandards: Underwriters Laboratories Inc. Single and Multiple Station
S
arbon monoxide alarms UL2034.
c 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
f ability to react to the dangers of Carbon Monoxide exposure.” This
o
O Alarm monitors the air at the Alarm, and is designed to alarm before
C
O levels become life threatening. This allows you precious time to
C
eave the house and correct the problem. This is only possible if Alarms
l
re located, installed, and maintained as described in this manual.
a 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.
udible Alarm: 85 dB minimum at 10 feet (3 meters).
A
REGULATORY INFORMATION FOR SMOKE ALARMS
RECOMMENDED LOCATIONS FOR SMOKE ALARMS
nstalling Smoke Alarms in Single-Family Residences
I
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.
More specifically, install Smoke Alarms:
• On every level of your home, including finished attics and basements.
Inside every bedroom, especially if people sleep with the door partly
• r completely closed.
o In the hall near every sleeping area. If your home has multiple
• leeping areas, install a unit in each. If a hall is more than 40 feet
s
ong (12 meters), install a unit at each end.
l At the top of the first-to-second floor stairway, and at the bottom of
he basement stairway.
t
Specific requirements for Smoke Alarm installation vary from state to state and from region to region. Check with your local Fire Department for current requirements in your area. It is recommended AC or AC/DC
units be interconnected for added protection.
AGENCY PLACEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS
Standards: Underwriters Laboratories Inc. Single and Multiple Station Smoke Alarms 217.
NFPA 72 Chapter 29
“For your information, the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, NFPA 72, reads as follows:”
29.5.1* Required Detection.
29.5.1.1* Where required by other governing laws, codes, or standards
for a specific type of occupancy, approved single and multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed as follows:
(1)*In all sleeping rooms and guest rooms (2)*Outside of each separate dwelling unit sleeping area, within 21 ft
(6.4 m) of any door to a sleeping room, with the distance measured
along a path of travel (3) On every level of a dwelling unit, including basements (4) On every level of a residential board and care occupancy (small
facility), including basements and excluding crawl spaces and
unfinished attics (5)*In the living area(s) of a guest suite (6) In the living area(s) of a residential board and care occupancy (small
facility) (Reprinted with permission from NFPA 72
Signaling Code Copyright © 2010 National Fire Protection Association, Quincy, MA 02269. This reprinted material is not the complete and official position of the National Fire Protection Association, on the referenced subject which is represented only by the standard in its entirety), (National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code®and NFPA 72®are registered trademarks of the National Fire Protection Association, Inc., Quincy, MA 02269).
California State Fire Marshal (CSFM)
Early warning detection is best achieved by the installation of fire detection equipment in all rooms and areas of the household as follows: A Smoke Alarm installed in each separate sleeping area (in the vicinity, but outside bedrooms), and Heat or Smoke Alarms in the living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, hallways, finished attics, furnace rooms, closets, utility and storage rooms, basements, and attached garages.
®
, National Fire Alarm and
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