First Alert SA320 User Manual

Download

Page 1

SER’S MANUAL

SMOKE ALARMS

attery Powered

Photo & Ion Smoke Alarm

odel SA320

ith Silence

IMPORTANT! PLEASE READ CAREFULLY AND SAVE.

his user’s manual contains important information about your Smoke

larm’s operation. If you are installing this Smoke Alarm for use by

others, you must leave this manual—or a copy of it—with the end user.

Printed in Mexico

08-0224-003

Q 1

1/10

LISTED TO

UL 217

STANDARD

odel SA320

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ntroduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

I Fire Safety Tips

efore You Install This Smoke Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

How To Install This Smoke Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

Optional Locking Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Understanding the Indicator Lights

Weekly Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Regular Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

If This Smoke Alarm Sounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

What To Do In Case Of Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Using the Silence Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Latching Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

If You Suspect a Problem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Recommended Locations For Smoke Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-6

Locations To Avoid For Smoke Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

About Smoke Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Special Compliance Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Limitations of Smoke Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Limited Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

© 2010 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 • www.brkelectronics.com

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

and Alarm Horn Patterns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

INTRODUCTION

Thank you for choosing First Alert®for your Smoke Alarm needs. You have purchased a state of the art Smoke Alarm designed to provide you with an early warning of a fire. Please take the time to read this manual and make this Smoke Alarm an integral part of your family’

Key Features of the SA320 Photo & Ion Combo Smoke Alarm: Photo & Ion Smoke Sensors:

sensing technologies for optimal sensing of smoke particles pr both flaming and smoldering fires.

Optipath 360 TechnologyTM: Patented technology provides 360˚ of direct access to the smoke sensor.

Two Silence Features: Low Battery Silence temporarily silences low battery chirp for up to eight hours before replacing low battery. Alarm Silence silences an unwanted alarm for several minutes.

Two Latching Features: Alarm Latch remembers which unit initiated an alarm. Low Battery Latch visually identifies which unit is in low battery condition.

Perfect Mount: Mounting bracket keeps alarm secur range to allow for perfect alignment.

Dual photoelectric and ionization smoke

s safety plan.

e over a wide r

oduced in

otation

ll First Alert

equirements, including UL217 and are designed to detect particles of

r combustion. Smoke particles of varying number and size are produced

n all fires.

aterials rapidly and spread quickly. Sources of these fires may include

aper burning in a wastebasket, or a grease fire in the kitchen.

efore bursting into flame. Sources of these fires may include cigarettes

b burning in couches or bedding.

For maximum protection, use both types of Smoke Alarms on each

evel and in every bedroom of your home.

onization technology is generally more sensitive than photoelectric

echnology at detecting small particles, which tend to be produced

t in greater amounts by flaming fires, which consume combustible

hotoelectric technology is generally more sensitive than ionization

P technology at detecting large particles, which tend to be produced in greater amounts by smoldering fires, which may smolder for hours

nd BRK

moke Alarms conform to regulatory

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

rom 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-

nd 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

re not working properly. Smoke Alarms that do not work cannot alert you to a

ire. Keep at least one working fire extinguisher on every floor, and an additional

f one in the kitchen. Have fire escape ladders or other reliable means of escape

rom an upper floor in case stairs are blocked.

. Replace alarms immediately if they

BEFORE YOU INSTALL THIS SMOKE ALARM

IMPORTANT! Read “Recommended Locations for Smoke Alarms” and

Locations to Avoid for Smoke Alarms” before beginning. This unit monitors

“ the air, and when smoke reaches its sensing chamber, it alarms. It can give you more time to escape before fire spreads. This unit can ONLY give an early warning of developing fires if it is installed, maintained and located where smoke can reach it, and where all residents can hear it, as described in this manual. This unit will not sense gas, heat, or flame. It cannot prevent or extinguish fires.

Understand The Different Type of Smoke Alarms

Battery powered or electrical? Different Smoke Alarms provide different types of protection. See “About Smoke Alarms” for details.

Know Where To Install Your Smoke Alarms

Fire Safety Professionals recommend at least one Smoke Alarm on every level of your home, in every bedroom, and in every bedroom hallway or separate sleeping area. See “Recommended Locations For Smoke Alarms” and “Locations To Avoid For Smoke Alarms” for details.

Know What Smoke Alarms Can and Can’t Do

A Smoke Alarm can help alert you to fire, giving you precious time to escape. It can only sound an alarm once smoke reaches the sensor. See “Limitations of Smoke Alarms” for details.

Check Your Local Building Codes

This Smoke Alarm is designed to be used in a typical single-family home. It alone will not meet requirements for boarding houses, apartment buildings, hotels or motels. See “Special Compliance Considerations” for details.

•

This unit will not alert hearing impaired residents. It is recommended that you install special units which use devices like flashing strobe lights to alert hearing impaired residents.

• This Smoke Alarm must have battery power to operate. The Smoke Alarm cannot work until you install the batteries in the corr

• Never remove the batteries from a battery operated unit to stop an unwanted alarm (caused by cooking smoke, etc.). Instead open a window or fan the smoke away fr The alarm will reset automatically.

• Do not install this unit over an electrical junction box. Only AC power

• This Smoke Alarm has a battery drawer which resists closing unless batteries are installed. This warns you the unit will not operate under DC power without batteries.

Do not stand too close to the unit when the alarm is sounding.

• It is loud to wake you in an emergency. Exposure to the horn at close range may harm your hearing.

• Do not paint over the unit. Paint may clog the openings to the sensing chambers and prevent the unit from operating properly.

ect position (Match “+” to “+” and “-” to “-”).

ed units ar

e intended for installation over junction boxes.

om the unit.

Page 2

Pull Out

HOW TO INSTALL THIS SMOKE ALARM

ounting Hole Sets

THE PARTS OF THIS SMOKE ALARM

. Test/Silence button

. Slide-open battery

drawer

. Multi-color Indicator

ight (Red or Green)

. Mounting bracket

2. Universal Mounting Holes

. Battery Drawer Lock

in Hole

4. Slide-open battery drawer

5. Turn this way to remove from bracket

6. Turn this way to attach t

o bracket

TOOLS YOU WILL NEED:

This unit is designed to be mounted

on the ceiling, or on the wall if necessary.

• Pencil

• Drill with 3/16” (5 mm) drill bit

• Standard flathead screwdriver

• Hammer

• Pliers or utility knife, to activate optional “tamper-resistant” locking features

FOLLOW THESE SIMPLE STEPS!

If you want to lock the battery drawer, or lock the Smoke Alarm to

he mounting bracket, please read the “Optional Locking Features”

ection before you begin installation.

. Hold base firmly and twist the mounting bracket clockwise to separate

t from the base.

. Hold the mounting bracket against the

eiling (or wall) so the two clusters of

c universal mounting holes are aligned approximately at the 9:00 and 3:00 o'clock

ositions. See image. Choose one of the

hree sets of holes shown, A, B or C (see

t image) and trace around one of the sets. Be sure to choose a top and bottom slot

n opposite sides so you can rotate the

niversal Mounting Bracket into position

U later. This will make it easier in the future the remove the mounting bracket without

ompletely removing the screws.

ARNING! Do not install this Smoke Alarm over an existing

W electrical box. Only AC power over electrical boxes.

3. Put the unit where it won’t get covered with dust when you drill the mounting holes.

. Using a 3/16” (5 mm) drill bit, drill a hole thro

val outlines you traced.

5. 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.

6. Install the screws but do not tighten completely. Attach the mounting bracket by aligning the screws in the open portion of the universal mounting slots and rotating the bracket into place. Tighten the screws until they are snug to secure the bracket. Do not over tighten.

Install the batteries (included) so the terminals on the battery match

7. the terminals on the Smoke Alarm. Match “+” to “+” and “-” to “-.” Push the batteries in until they snap in securely and cannot be shaken loose. If the batteries are not in completely, the unit cannot receive battery power.

NOTE: After you install the batteries, the power indicator light will flash and the horn will chirp. (If the unit alarms, the light will blink rapidly, and the horn will repeatedly sound 3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps.)

8. Attach the Smoke Alarm to the bracket. Line up the guides on the alarm’s base with the guides on the mounting bracket. When guides are lined up, turn the base clockwise (right).

NOTE: Once the Smoke Alarm is on the bracket, you can rotate the Alarm to adjust the alignment.

9. Test the Smoke Alarm. See “Weekly Testing.”

ed units are intended for installation

ugh the center of the

Page 3

he locking features are designed to discourage unauthorized removal of the batteries or Alarm. It is not necessary to activate the locks in single-family

OPTIONAL LOCKING FEATURES

ouseholds where unauthorized battery or Alarm removal is not a concern.

hese Smoke Alarms have two separate locking features: one to lock the battery compartment, and the other to lock the Smoke Alarm

T to the mounting bracket. You can choose to use either feature independently, or use them both.

ools you will need:•Needle-nose pliers or utility knife • Standard Flathead screwdriver.

oth locking features use locking pins, which are molded into the mounting bracket. Using needle-nose pliers or a utility knife, remove

B one or both pins from the mounting bracket, depending on how many locking features you want to use.

o permanently remove either lock, insert a flathead screwdriver between the locking pin and the lock, and pry the pin out of the lock.

O LOCK THE BATTERY COMPARTMENT

Do not lock the battery compartment until you have installed the batteries and tested the alarm.

1. Push and hold Test button until the alarm sounds: 3 beeps, pause, beeps, pause. LED flashes once every second.

If the unit does not alarm during testing, DO NOT lock the battery compartment! Install new batteries and test again. If the Smoke

larm still does not alarm, replace it immediately.

2. Using needle-nose pliers or a utility knife, detach one locking pin

rom the mounting bracket.

3. Push the locking pin through the hole near the battery drawer on the

back of the Smoke Alarm.

TO LOCK THE MOUNTING BRACKET

1. Using needle-nose pliers, detach one locking pin from mounting bracket.

TO UNLOCK THE BATTERY COMPARTMENT

1. Remove the Smoke Alarm from the mounting racket. If the unit is locked to the bracket, see

b the section “To Unlock the Mounting Bracket.”

2. Insert a flathead screwdriver under the head f the locking pin, and gently pry it out of the

attery compartment lock. (If you plan to relock

b the battery compartment, save the locking pin.)

. To relock the battery compartment, close the

battery door and reinsert locking pin in lock.

. Reattach the Smoke Alarm to the mounting

racket.

hen replacing the batteries, always test the Smoke Alarm before relocking

W the battery compartment.

TO UNLOCK THE MOUNTING BRACKET

1. Insert a flathead screwdriver between the

mounting bracket pin and the mounting bracket.

2. Pry the Smoke Alarm away from the bracket by

turning both the screwdriver and the Smoke Alarm counterclockwise (left) at the same time.

2. Insert the locking pin into the lock located opposite from the battery drawer as shown in the diagram.

3. When you attach the Smoke Alarm to the mounting bracket, the locking

s head will fit into a notch on the bracket.

pin’

Page 4

UNDERSTANDING THE INDICATOR LIGHTS

AND ALARM HORN PATTERNS

lashing Green LED once/minute

Normal Operation

Test Condition

Alarm Condition*

Initiating Unit)

(

ilence Mode

Low Battery

atching Alarm

ow Battery Latch

Note: To conserve batteries, both "Latching" features last for 15 minutes

nd are then turned off.

o Audible Alarm

apidly Flashing Red LED

udible Alarm

apidly Flashing Red LED

udible Alarm

apidly Flashing Red LED

udible Alarm Off

larm “chirp’’ approx. once/minute

ed LED flashing 2 seconds on,

R 2 seconds off

reen LED flashing 2 seconds on,

G 2 seconds off

WEEKLY TESTING

• NEVER use an open flame of any kind to test this unit. You might ccidentally damage or set fire to the unit or to your home. The built-

n test switch accurately tests the unit’s operation as required by

i Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (UL).

place it immediately.

• If the Alarm ever fails to test pro

Products under warranty may be returned to the manufacturer

or replacement. See “Limited Warranty” at the end of this manual.

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 Alarm.

Press and hold the Test/Silence button on the cover of the unit until the alarm sounds (the unit may continue to alarm for a few seconds after you release the button). If it does not alarm, make sure the unit is receiving power and test it again. If it still does not alarm, replace it immediately.

During testing, you will hear a loud, repeating horn pattern: 3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps, pause. LED flashes once every second.

When testing a series of interconnected units you must test each unit individually. Make sure all units alarm when each one is tested.

perly, re

REGULAR MAINTENANCE

Use only the replacement batteries listed below operate properly with other batteries. Never use rechargeable batteries since they may not provide a constant charge.

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 Alarm at least once a month; gently vacuum the

outside of the Smoke Alarm using your household vacuum’s soft brush attachment. T since they may damage the unit.

• If the Smoke 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 “Locations o Avoid For Smoke Alarms” for details.

• When the batteries become weak, the Smoke Alarm will “chirp” about

once a minute (the low battery warning). This warning should last 7 days, but you should replace the batteries immediately to continue your

otection.

est the Smoke Alarm. Never use water

. The unit may not

, cleaners or solvents

Choosing a replacement battery:

our Smoke/CO Alarm requires two “AA” Energizer E91 batteries.

These batteries are available at many local retail stores.

ctual battery service life depends on the Alarm and the environment in which

A it is installed. All the batteries specified above are acceptable replacement

atteries for this unit. Regardless of the manufacturer’s suggested battery life,

ou MUST replace the battery immediately once the unit starts “chirping”

y (the “low battery warning”).

o replace the batteries (without removing Alarm from the ceiling or wall):

. Open the battery compartment.

. Press tabs A and B as shown in the diagram

and remove each battery.

. Insert the new batteries, making sure

they snap completely into the battery

ompartment. Match the terminals on the

nds of the batteries with the terminals on

e the unit.

. Close the battery compartment, and then

est the unit by pressing the Test/Silence

t button.

IF THIS SMOKE ALARM SOUNDS

RESPONDING TO AN ALARM

During an alarm, you will hear a loud, repeating horn pattern: 3 beeps,

ause, 3 beeps, pause.

If the unit alarms and you are not testing the unit, it is warning you of a

• otentially dangerous situation that requires your immediate attention.

EVER ignore any alarm. Ignoring the alarm may result in injury or

N death.

ever remove the batteries to quiet an unwanted alarm. Removing

• N

the batteries disables the Alarm so it cannot sense smoke. This will

emove your protection. Instead, open a window or

r away from the unit. The Alarm will reset automatically.

• If the unit alarms get everyone out of the house immediately.

If the unit alarms and you are certain that the source of smoke is not a fire— cooking smoke or an extremely dusty furnace, for example—open a nearby window or door and fan the smoke away from the unit (Use the Silence Feature to silence the Alarm). This will silence the alarm, and once the smoke clears the unit will reset itself automatically.

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 "Limitations of Smoke Alarms" for details.

an the smoke

Page 5

SING THE SILENCE FEATURE

he Silence Feature can temporarily quiet an unwanted alarm for up to 15

inutes.

he Silence Feature does not disable the unit—it makes it temporarily

T less sensitive to smoke. For your safety, if smoke around the unit is dense

nough to suggest a potentially dangerous situation, the unit will stay in

larm or may re-alarm quickly. If you do not know the source of the

a smoke, do not assume it is an unwanted alarm. Not responding to an

larm can result in property loss, injury, or death.

he Silence Feature on these units can temporarily quiet an unwanted alarm for

T up to 15 minutes. To use this feature, press the Test/Silence button on the cover.

f the unit will not silence and no heavy smoke is present, or if it stays in

ilence mode continuously, it should be replaced immediately.

SILENCING THE LOW BATTERY WARNING

his Silence Feature can temporarily quiet the low battery warning “chirp” for

p to 8 hours. Press the Test/Silence button on the Alarm cover until you hear

u the acknowledge “chirp”.

Once the low battery warning “chirp” silence feature is activated, the unit continues to flash the green light once a minute for approximately 8 hours.

fter 8 hours, the low battery “chirp” will resume.

soon as possible; this unit will not operate without battery power!

eplace the batteries as

LATCHING FEATURE

larm Latchis activated after an Alarm is exposed to alarm levels of smoke.

After smoke levels drop below alarm levels, the seconds on, 2 seconds off unless reset by test/silence button. It will continue

o flash or “latch” for about 15 minutes, to give you time to determine which

t unit initiated the alarm.

This feature helps emergency responders, investigators, or service technicians identify which unit(s) in your home were exposed to alarm levels of smoke. This can help investigators pinpoint the source of smoke.

Low Battery Latch is activated when the Alarm is in the "low battery condition". When this occurs, the Green LED flashes 2 seconds on, 2 seconds off. This feature to have the battery replaced. Although, the Alarm will sound the low battery chirp approximately once every minute, sometimes during the initial stages of "low battery", the Alarm will chirp in greater intervals than one minute, sometimes up to several hours, until the battery reaches a steady low battery level. This innovative feature eliminates the frustration of waiting for and/or identifying which unit is chirping. It will continue to flash or “latch” for about 15 minutes, to give you time to determine which unit has a low battery.

is designed to help you identify which Alarm needs

Red LED will begin flashing

RECOMMENDED LOCATIONS FOR SMOKE ALARMS

nstalling Smoke Alarms in Single-Family Residences

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), recommends one Smoke

larm on every floor, in every sleeping area, and in every bedroom. In new

onstruction, the Smoke Alarms must be AC powered and interconnected.

c See “Agency Placement Recommendations” for details. For additional cover-

ge, it is recommended that you install a Smoke Alarm in all rooms, halls,

torage areas, finished attics, and basements, where temperatures normally

s remain between 40˚ F (4.4˚ C) and 100˚ F (37.8˚ C). Make sure no door or

ther obstruction could keep smoke from reaching the Smoke Alarms.

ore 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 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 long (12 meters),

nstall a unit at each end.

i At the top of the first-to-second floor stairway, and at the bottom

•

f the basement stairway.

pecific requirements for Smoke Alarm installation vary from state to state

nd from region to region. Check with your local Fire Department for current

a requirements in your area.

onnected for added protection.

It is recommended AC or AC/DC units be inter-

IF YOU SUSPECT A PROBLEM

Smoke Alarms may not operate properly because of dead, missing or weak batteries, a build-up of dirt, dust or grease on the Smoke Alarm cover, or installation in an improper location. Clean the Smoke Alarm as described in “Regular Maintenance,” and install fresh batteries, then test the Smoke Alarm again. If it fails to test properly when you use the test button, or if the problem persists, replace the Smoke Alarm immediately.

• If you hear a “chirp” approximately once a minute, replace the batteries.

• If you experience frequent non-emergency alarms (like those caused by cooking smoke), try relocating the Smoke Alarm.

• If the alarm sounds when no smoke is visible, try cleaning or

elocating the Smoke Alarm. The cover may be dirty.

• If the alarm does not sound during testing, try installing new batteries, and make sur

Do not try fixing the alarm yourself – this will void your warranty!

If the Smoke Alarm is still not operating properly, and it is still under warranty, please see “How to Obtain Warranty Service” in the Limited Warranty.

e installed correctly.

e they ar

INSTALLING SMOKE ALARMS IN MOBILE HOMES & RVS

For minimum security install one Smoke 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. Smoke Alarms should be installed where temperatures normally remain between 40˚ F (4.4˚ C) and 100˚ F (37.8˚ C).

WARNING: Test units used in RVs after the vehicle has been in storage, before every trip, and once a week while in use. Failure to test units used in RVs as described may remove your protection.

Page 6

GENCY PLACEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS

FPA 72 (National Fire Code) Chapter 11

For your information, the National Fire Protection Association's Standard 72,

“ reads as follows:”

11.5.1 One- and Two-Family Dwelling Units.”

“ “11.5.1.1 Smoke Detection.

tandards for the specified occupancy, approved single- and multiple-station

moke Alarms shall be installed as follows: (1) In all sleeping rooms.

S Exception: Smoke Alarms shall not be required in sleeping rooms in existing

ne- and two-family dwelling units. (2) Outside of each separate sleeping area,

n immediate vicinity of the sleeping rooms. (3) On each level of the dwelling

i unit, including basements. Exception: In existing one- and two family dwelling

nits, approved Smoke Alarms powered by batteries are permitted.”

A.11.8.3 Are More Smoke Alarms Desirable? The required number of

“

moke Alarms might not provide reliable early warning protection for those

S areas separated by a door from the areas protected by the required Smoke

larms. For this reason, it is recommended that the householder consider

he use of additional Smoke Alarms for those areas for increased protection.

t The additional areas include the basement, bedrooms, dining room, furnace

oom, utility room, and hallways not protected by the required Smoke Alarms.

he installation of Smoke Alarms in kitchens, unfinished attics, or garages

T is not normally recommended, as these locations occasionally experience

onditions that can result in improper operation.”

California State Fire Marshal (CSFM)

arly warning detection is best achieved by the installation of fire detection

E 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),

nd Heat or Smoke Alarms in the living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms,

a kitchens, hallways, finished attics, furnace rooms, closets, utility and storage rooms, basements, and attached garages.

Where required by applicable laws, codes, or

LOCATIONS TO AVOID FOR SMOKE ALARMS

or best performance, AVOID installing Smoke Alarms in these areas:

Where combustion particles are produced. Combustion particles form

• when something burn

arages, and furnace rooms. Keep units at least 20 feet (6 meters) from

he sources of combustion particles (stove, furn

t 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.

• In air streams near kitchens. Air currents can draw cooking smoke into the sensing chamber of a Smoke Alarm near the kitchen.

• In very damp, humid or steamy areas, or directly near bathrooms with showers. Keep units at least 10 feet (3 meters) away from showers, saunas, dishwashers, etc.

• Where the temperatures are regularly below 40˚ F (4.4˚ C) or above 100˚ F (37.8˚ C) including unheated buildings, outdoor rooms, porches, or unfinished attics or basements.

• In very dusty, dirty, or greasy areas. Do not install a Smoke Alarm directly over the stove or range. Clean a laundry room unit frequently to keep it free of dust or lint.

• Near fresh air vents, ceiling fans, or in very drafty areas. Drafts can blow smoke away from the unit, preventing it from reaching sensing chamber.

• In insect infested areas. Insects can clog openings to the sensing chamber and cause unwanted alarms.

• Less than 12 inches (305 mm) away from fluorescent lights. Electrical “noise” can interfere with the sensor.

• In “dead air” spaces. “Dead air” spaces may prevent smoke from reaching the Smoke Alarm.

AVOIDING DEAD AIR SPACES

“Dead air” spaces may prevent smoke from reaching the Smoke Alarm. To avoid dead air spaces, follow the installation recommendations below.

On ceilings, install Smoke Alarms as close to the center of the ceiling as possible. If this is not possible, install the Smoke 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 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 the first Smoke Alarm within 3 feet (0.9 meters) of the peak of the ceiling, measured horizontally. Additional Smoke 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.

s. Areas to avoid include poorly ventilated kitchens,

ace, water heater, space

ABOUT SMOKE ALARMS

attery (DC) operated Smoke Alarms:Provide protection even when

lectricity fails, provided the batteries are fresh and correctly installed. Units

e are easy to install, and do not require professional installation. They do not,

owever, provide interconnected functionality.

C powered Smoke Alarms: Can be interconnected so if one unit senses

smoke, all units alarm. They do not operate if electricity fails. AC with battery (DC) back-up: will operate if electricity fails, provided the

atteries are fresh and correctly installed. AC and AC/DC units must be

b installed by a qualified electrician.

Wireless Interconnected Alarms: Offer the same interconnected functionality

s with hardwired alarms, without wires. Units are easy to install and do not

equire professional installation. They provide protection even when electricity

r fails, provided the batteries are fresh and correctly installed.

Smoke Alarms for Solar or Wind Energy users and battery backup power

ystems:

ure sine wave inverters. Operating this Smoke Alarm with most battery-

p powered UPS (uninterruptible power supply) products or square wave or

quasi sine wave” inverters

“

our inverter or UPS type, please consult with the manufacturer to verify.

moke Alarms for the hearing impaired: Special purpose Smoke Alarms

should be installed for the hearing impaired. They include a visual alarm and

n audible alarm horn, and meet the requirements of the Americans With

isabilities Act. These units can be interconnected so if one unit senses

D smoke, all units alarm.

Smoke alarms are not to be used with detector guards unless the

ombination has been evaluated and found suitable for that purpose.

ll these Smoke Alarms are designed to provide early warning of fires if

ocated, installed and cared for as described in the user’s manual, and if

l smoke reaches the Alarm. If you are unsure which type of unit to install, refer

o NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) 72 (National Fire Alarm Code)

nd NFPA 101 (Life Safety Code). National Fire Protection Association, One

a Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269-9101. Local building codes may also

equire specific units in new construction or in different areas of the home.

C powered Smoke Alarms should only be operated with true or

ill damage the Alarm.If you are not sure about

SPECIAL COMPLIANCE CONSIDERATIONS

This Smoke Alarm alone is not a suitable substitute for complete fire detection systems in places housing many people—like apartment buildings, condominiums, hotels, motels, dormitories, hospitals, longterm health care facilities, nursing homes, day care facilities, or group homes of any kind—even if they were once single-family homes. It is not a suitable substitute for complete fire detection systems in warehouses, industrial facilities, commercial buildings, and special-purpose non-residential buildings which require special fire detection and alarm systems. Depending on the building codes in your area, this Smoke Alarm may be used to provide additional protection in these facilities.

The following information applies to all four types of buildings listed below:

In new construction, most building codes require the use of AC or AC/DC powered Smoke Alarms only. AC, AC/DC, or DC powered Smoke Alarms can be used in existing construction as specified by local building codes. Refer to NFPA 72 (National Fire Alarm Code) and NFPA 101 (Life Safety Code), local building codes, or consult your Fire Department for detailed fire protection requirements in buildings not defined as “households.”

1. Single-Family Residence:

Single family home, townhouse. It is recommended Smoke Alarms be installed on every level of the home, in every bedroom, and in each bedroom hallway

2. Multi-Family or Mixed Occupant Residence:

Apartment building, condominium. This Smoke Alarm is suitable for use in individual apartments or condos, provided a primary fire detection system already exists to meet fire detection requirements in common areas like lobbies, hallways, or por not provide sufficient warning to all residents or meet local fire protection ordinances/regulations.

3. Institutions:

Hospitals, day car Alarm is suitable for use in individual patient sleeping/resident rooms, provided a primary fire detection system already exists to meet fire detection

ements in common ar

equir

r Smoke Alarm in common areas may not provide sufficient warning to all residents or meet local fire protection ordinances/regulations.

4. Hotels and Motels:

Also boarding houses and dormitories. This Smoke Alarm is suitable for use inside individual sleeping/resident rooms, provided a primary fire detection system already exists to meet fire detection requirements in common areas like lobbies, hallways, or por may not pr ordinances/regulations.

ovide suf

ches. Using this Smoke Alarm in common areas may

e facilities, long-term health car

eas like lobbies, hallways, or por

ches. Using this Smoke Alarm in common areas

ficient war

ning to all r

e facilities. This Smoke

ches. Using this

esidents or meet local fire protection

Page 7

LIMITATIONS OF SMOKE ALARMS

moke Alarms have played a key role in reducing deaths resulting from home

ires worldwide. However, like any warning device, Smoke Alarms can only

f work if they are properly located, installed, and maintained, and if smoke

eaches the Alarms. They are not foolproof.

r Smoke alarms may not waken all individuals. Practice the escape plan

t least twice a year, making sure that everyone is involved – from kids to

randparents. Allow children to master fire escape planning and practice

g before holding a fire drill at night when they are sleeping. If children or others

o not readily waken to the sound of the smoke alarm, or if there are infants

r family members with mobility limitations, make sure that someone is

o assigned to assist them in fire drill and in the event of an emergency. It is

ecommended that you hold a fire drill while family members are sleeping in

rder to determine their response to the sound of the smoke alarm while

o sleeping and to determine whether they may need assistance in the event

f an emergency.

o Smoke Alarms cannot work without power. Battery operated units cannot

ork if the batteries are missing, disconnected or dead, if the wrong type

f batteries are used, or if the batteries are not installed correctly. AC units

o cannot work if the AC power is cut off for any reason (open fuse or circuit

reaker, failure along a power line or at a power station, electrical fire that

urns the electrical wires, etc.). If you are concerned about the limitations

b of battery or AC power, install both types of units.

moke Alarms cannot detect fires if the smoke does not reach the

larms.Smoke from fires in chimneys or walls, on roofs, or on the other side

of closed doors may not reach the sensing chamber and set off the Alarm.

hat is why one unit should be installed inside each bedroom or sleeping

rea—especially if bedroom or sleeping area doors are closed at night—and

a in the hallway between them.

moke Alarms may not detect fire on another floor or area of the

S dwelling.

s e is at least one unit in every sleeping area, and every bedroom on every level of your dwelling. Even with a unit on every floor, stand-alone units may not pro in a remote area. Some safety experts recommend installing interconnected AC powered units with battery back-up (see “About Smoke Alarms”) or professional fire detection systems, so if one unit senses smoke, all units alarm. Interconnected units may provide earlier warning than stand-alone units since all units alarm when one detects smoke.

Smoke Alarms may not be heard. Though the alarm horn in this unit meets or exceeds current standards, it may not be heard if: 1) the unit is located outside a closed or partially closed door, 2) residents recently consumed alcohol or drugs, 3) the Alarm is drowned out by noise from stereo, TV, traffic, air conditioner or other appliances, 4) residents are hearing impaired or sound sleepers. Special purpose units, like those with visual and audible alarms, should be installed for hearing impaired residents.

Smoke Alarms may not have time to alarm before the fire itself causes damage, injury, or death, since smoke from some fires may not reach the unit immediately. Examples of this include persons smoking in bed, children playing with matches, or fires caused by violent explosions resulting from escaping gas.

Smoke Alarms are not foolproof.

are made of components that can wear out or fail at any time. You must test the unit weekly to ensure your continued protection. Smoke Alarms cannot prevent or extinguish fires. They are not a substitute for property or life insurance.

Smoke Alarms have a limited life. The unit should be replaced immediately if it is not operating properly. You should always replace a Smoke Alarm after 10 years from date of purchase. Write the purchase date on the space provided on back of unit.

For example, a stand-alone unit on the second floor may not detect moke from a basement fire until the fire spreads. This may not give you nough time to escape safely. That is why recommended minimum protection

vide as much protection as interconnected units, especially if the fire starts

Like any electronic device, Smoke Alarms

IMITED WARRANTY

BRK Brands, Inc., ("BRK") the maker of First Alert®brand and BRK®brand

roducts, warrants that for a period of ten years from the date of purchase,

his product will be free from defects in material and workmanship.

t BRK, at its option, will repair or replace this product or any component of

he product found to be defective during the warranty period. Replacement

ill be made with a new or remanufactured product or component. If the

w product is no longer available, replacement may be made with a similar

roduct of equal or greater value. This is your exclusive warranty.

his warranty is valid for the original retail purchaser from the date of initial

etail purchase and is not transferable. Keep the original sales receipt.

r Proof of purchase is required to obtain warranty performance.

RK dealers, service centers, or retail stores selling BRK products do not

ave the right to alter, modify or any way change the terms and conditions

h of this warranty.

This warranty does not cover normal wear of parts or damage resulting

rom any of the following: negligent use or misuse of the product, use on

mproper voltage or current, use contrary to the operating instructions,

i disassembly, repair or alteration by anyone other than BRK or an authorized

ervice center. Further, the warranty does not cover Acts of God, such as

s fire, flood, hurricanes and tornadoes or any batteries that are included with this unit.

BRK shall not be liable for any incidental or consequential damages

aused by the breach of any express or implied warranty. Except to the

c extent prohibited by applicable law, any implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose is limited in duration to the duration of

he above warranty. Some states, provinces or jurisdictions do not allow

t the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages or limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitations

r exclusion may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal

o rights, and you may also have other rights that vary from state to state or

rovince to province.

ow to Obtain Warranty Service

H Service: If service is required, do not return the product to your retailer.

n order to obtain warranty service, contact the Consumer Affairs Division

t 1-800-323-9005, 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM Central Standard Time, Monday

a through Friday. To assist us in serving you, please have the model number

nd date of purchase available when calling.

or Warranty Service return to:

BRK Brands, Inc., 25 Spur Drive, El Paso, TX 79906 Battery: BRK Brands, Inc. make no warranty, express or implied, written or

oral, including that of merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose with respect to battery.

First Alert®is a registered trademark of the First Alert Trust. BRK®is a registered trademark of BRK Brands, Inc.

Printed in Mexico M08-0224-003 Q 11/10

First Alert SA320 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual