Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your First Alert CO605 Carbon Monoxide Detector. This plug-in alarm features a battery backup for continuous monitoring, an electrochemical sensor for accurate detection, and a simple test/silence button. Please read this manual thoroughly before use and retain it for future reference.
Image: First Alert Carbon Monoxide Alarm banner, displaying the brand logo and product type.
Important Safety Information
Carbon Monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odorless, and tasteless gas that can be fatal. This CO alarm is designed to detect carbon monoxide from any source of combustion. It is not designed to detect smoke or fire.
- WARNING: This product is intended for use in ordinary indoor locations of family living units. It is not designed to measure compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) commercial or industrial standards.
- WARNING: This carbon monoxide alarm is not a substitute for a smoke alarm.
- CAUTION: This alarm will only indicate the presence of carbon monoxide gas at the sensor. Carbon monoxide gas may be present in other areas.
Product Features
- Plug-in Design: Easily connects to any standard 120V AC outlet.
- Battery Backup: Ensures continuous operation during power outages with a 9V battery (included).
- Electrochemical Sensor: Provides accurate and reliable carbon monoxide detection.
- Test/Silence Button: Allows for easy testing of the alarm's functionality and silencing of nuisance alarms.
- Loud 85-Decibel Alarm: Alerts occupants to dangerous CO levels.
- End-of-Life Signal: Chirps to indicate when the unit needs replacement (approximately 7 years after activation).
- UL Certified: Rigorously tested to meet Underwriters Laboratories standards.
Image: Front view of the First Alert CO605 Carbon Monoxide Detector, showing the test/silence button and ventilation grilles.
Image: Rear view of the First Alert CO605 Carbon Monoxide Detector, showing the open battery compartment and a 9V battery.
Setup and Installation
- Unpack the Detector: Carefully remove the CO detector from its packaging.
- Install Battery: Open the battery compartment cover on the back of the unit. Connect the 9V battery (included) to the battery clip. Ensure correct polarity (+ to + and - to -). Close the battery compartment cover. The unit will chirp once to confirm battery installation.
- Select Location:
- Install at least one CO alarm on each level of your home, especially near sleeping areas.
- Place alarms where they will be heard by all occupants.
- Plug into a standard 120V AC wall outlet.
- Avoid placing the detector in direct sunlight, near heating/cooling vents, or in areas with high humidity.
- Do not install in garages, kitchens, or furnace rooms where CO sources are common, as this may lead to nuisance alarms.
Image: The First Alert CO605 Carbon Monoxide Detector plugged into a wall outlet, demonstrating its easy plug-in feature.
Image: A diagram illustrating recommended placement of carbon monoxide alarms on each level of a home, including bedrooms, hallways, living rooms, and basements.
- Plug In the Detector: Insert the detector into a standard 120V AC wall outlet. Ensure it is securely plugged in.
- Test the Alarm: After installation, press and hold the "Test/Silence" button for a few seconds. The alarm should sound loudly (4 beeps, pause, 4 beeps). This confirms the unit is functioning correctly.
Operating Instructions
Normal Operation
During normal operation, the alarm will not emit any sounds or lights. It continuously monitors for carbon monoxide.
Alarm Condition
If carbon monoxide is detected at dangerous levels, the alarm will sound a loud pattern of 4 quick beeps, followed by 5 seconds of silence, repeating. This indicates a CO emergency.
If the Alarm Sounds:
- Immediately move to fresh air outdoors or open all doors and windows.
- Do a head count to check that all persons are accounted for.
- Do not re-enter the premises, or move away from the open door/window, until the emergency services responders have arrived, the premises have been aired out, and your alarm remains in its normal condition.
- Call your emergency services, fire department, or 911.
Test/Silence Button
- Testing: Press and hold the "Test/Silence" button to test the alarm's electronic circuitry and horn. The alarm will sound if functioning correctly.
- Silencing: Press the "Test/Silence" button to temporarily silence the alarm for approximately 4 minutes if it is sounding due to a nuisance condition (e.g., temporary high CO levels from a nearby appliance). The alarm will reactivate if CO levels remain high.
Image: A close-up view of the "Test/Silence" button on the First Alert CO605 Carbon Monoxide Detector, highlighting its function.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures your CO detector operates effectively.
- Weekly Testing: Test your CO alarm weekly by pressing the "Test/Silence" button.
- Battery Replacement: The 9V battery should be replaced annually, or immediately when the low battery warning chirp sounds (a single chirp every minute). Use only recommended replacement batteries (e.g., Duracell MN1604, Eveready 522).
- Cleaning: Clean the detector regularly to prevent dust buildup. Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe the exterior. Do not use cleaning sprays or solvents.
- Do Not Paint: Never paint the unit. Paint can clog the sensor openings and interfere with the alarm's ability to detect CO.
- End-of-Life Replacement: The alarm has a 7-year lifespan. After 7 years from the date of manufacture, the unit will chirp 5 times every minute to indicate it needs to be replaced. Replace the entire unit immediately.
Image: Two children playing on the floor, with a First Alert CO detector visible in the background, emphasizing the importance of family safety.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Alarm chirps once every minute. | Low battery. | Replace the 9V battery immediately. |
| Alarm chirps 5 times every minute. | End-of-life warning. | Replace the entire CO detector unit. |
| Alarm sounds continuously (4 beeps, pause, 4 beeps). | High carbon monoxide levels detected. | Evacuate to fresh air and call emergency services. Do not re-enter until cleared. |
| Alarm does not sound when Test/Silence button is pressed. | No power (if unplugged), dead battery, or unit malfunction. | Ensure unit is plugged in. Replace battery. If still no sound, replace the unit. |
Specifications
- Model: CO605
- Power Source: 120V AC (corded electric) with 9V battery backup (included)
- Sensor Type: Electrochemical
- Alarm Loudness: 85 decibels at 10 feet
- Operating Temperature: 40°F (4.4°C) to 100°F (37.8°C)
- Operating Humidity: 10-95% Relative Humidity (RH)
- Dimensions: 1.38"D x 5"W x 3.4"H
- Weight: 4.2 ounces
- Lifespan: 7 years from activation
- Certifications: UL 2034
Image: Diagram illustrating the dimensions of the First Alert CO605 Carbon Monoxide Detector (3.4 inches height, 5 inches width, 1.38 inches depth).
Warranty
This First Alert CO605 Carbon Monoxide Detector comes with a 7-year limited warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and service. For full warranty details, please refer to the documentation included with your product or visit the official First Alert website.
Support and Contact Information
For technical assistance, warranty claims, or further information regarding your First Alert CO605 Carbon Monoxide Detector, please contact First Alert customer support.
- Website: www.firstalert.com
- Phone: Refer to the contact information provided in the product packaging or on the official website for the most current phone numbers.
