Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your Kidde KN-COSM-BA Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detector. This device is designed to alert you to the presence of smoke and carbon monoxide, providing crucial early warning for potential hazards. Please read this manual thoroughly before installation and retain it for future reference.
Image: Kidde KN-COSM-BA Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector, front view.
Safety Information
This detector utilizes ionization sensing technology for smoke detection, which is effective at sensing invisible fire particles associated with fast-flaming fires. An electrochemical sensor detects carbon monoxide gas. It is important to understand that this device is not a substitute for property, disability, life, or other insurance. Regular testing and maintenance are crucial for its proper function.
- Never ignore any alarm. Responding to an alarm quickly can save lives.
- Do not remove batteries to silence a nuisance alarm. Use the Hush button.
- Test the alarm weekly to ensure proper operation.
- Replace the unit after 10 years from the date of manufacture or when the end-of-life signal sounds.
Setup and Installation
1. Battery Installation
The Kidde KN-COSM-BA operates on two (2) AA batteries. A convenient pop-up, front-door battery compartment allows for quick installation or replacement without disconnecting the unit from its mounting base.
- Slide the battery door open on the front of the unit.
- Insert two (2) fresh AA batteries, observing the polarity (+/-) markings inside the compartment.
- Close the battery door securely. The unit will chirp and the green LED will flash, indicating it is powered on.
Image: Front battery compartment open, showing AA batteries being inserted.
2. Mounting Location
For optimal protection, install combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms on every level of your home, including basements, and near all sleeping areas. Avoid installing within 36 inches of bathroom or kitchen doors due to potential nuisance alarms from steam or cooking fumes.
Image: Mounting bracket for the Kidde KN-COSM-BA detector.
3. Mounting the Detector
- Attach the mounting bracket to the ceiling or wall using the provided screws. Ensure the bracket is firmly secured.
- Align the detector with the mounting bracket and twist clockwise until it locks into place. The tamper-resistant design helps prevent unauthorized removal.
- After installation, perform a test as described in the 'Operating Your Detector' section.
Image: Hands engaging the tamper-resistant lock on the detector after installation.
Installation Video
Video: A detailed guide on how to install the Kidde Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector. This video demonstrates the steps for mounting the unit and preparing it for use.
Operating Your Detector
1. Normal Operation
During normal operation, the green LED on the alarm will flash approximately every 60 seconds, indicating that the unit has power and is operating correctly.
Image: The detector showing the green LED indicator during normal operation.
2. Alarm Signals and Voice Alerts
The detector provides distinct audible and voice alerts for different hazards:
- Smoke/Fire Alarm: Three long beeps followed by the voice announcement "Fire! Fire!" A red LED will flash in unison with the voice alarm.
- Carbon Monoxide Alarm: Four short beeps followed by the voice announcement "Warning! Carbon Monoxide!" A red LED will flash in unison with the voice alarm.
- Low Battery Alert: One chirp approximately every 60 seconds, accompanied by the voice announcement "Low Battery!"
- Malfunction/End-of-Life: Two chirps approximately every 30 seconds, indicating the unit needs to be replaced.
3. Test/Hush Button
The large button on the front of the detector serves two functions:
- Test: Press and hold the button to test the alarm's functionality. The unit will cycle through its alarm sounds and voice announcements. Test weekly.
- Hush: In case of a nuisance alarm (e.g., from cooking fumes or shower steam), press the button to temporarily silence the alarm for approximately 8 minutes. The alarm will automatically reset after this period if the condition persists.
Image: Close-up view of the Test/Hush button on the detector.
Operation Overview Video
Video: An overview of the Kidde Battery Powered Combination Smoke & CO Alarm, demonstrating its features and operational aspects.
Maintenance
1. Battery Replacement
When the detector announces "Low Battery!" and chirps every 60 seconds, replace both AA batteries immediately. Use only the specified battery type. Refer to the 'Battery Installation' section for detailed steps.
2. Cleaning Your Detector
Clean your alarm annually to prevent dust and debris buildup, which can affect performance. Use a soft brush attachment on a vacuum cleaner or compressed air to clean around the openings of the alarm. Do not paint the alarm.
3. Weekly Testing
Test your detector weekly by pressing and holding the Test/Hush button until the alarm sounds. This confirms the electronic circuitry, alarm, and batteries are working.
4. End-of-Life Replacement
The detector has a 10-year operational life. After 10 years from the date of manufacture, or when the unit signals with two chirps every 30 seconds, the entire unit must be replaced. The manufacture date is printed on the back of the alarm.
Image: Quick Reference Guide printed on the back of the detector, detailing alarm signals and maintenance reminders.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Indication | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Nuisance Alarm | Alarm sounds unexpectedly (e.g., during cooking, from steam). | Press the Hush button to temporarily silence the alarm for approximately 8 minutes. Ensure proper ventilation in areas prone to steam or smoke. |
| Low Battery | One chirp every 60 seconds, with "Low Battery!" voice alert. | Replace both AA batteries immediately. |
| End-of-Life / Malfunction | Two chirps every 30 seconds. | The unit has reached its end-of-life or is malfunctioning. Replace the entire detector. |
| No Power | No green LED flash, no response to Test button. | Check battery installation and ensure batteries are fresh and correctly oriented. |
Specifications
- Model Number: KN-COSM-BA
- Power Source: 2-AA Alkaline Batteries
- Sensor Type: Ionization (Smoke), Electrochemical (CO)
- Alarm Sound Level: 85 decibels at 10 feet
- Product Dimensions: 1.8"D x 5.6"W x 5.6"H
- Operating Humidity: 10% to 95% relative humidity, non-condensing
- Upper Temperature Rating: 37.8 °C (100 °F)
- Certifications: UL 2034, UL217, NFPA72, NFPA101, FHA, HUD
Warranty
This Kidde KN-COSM-BA detector comes with a 10-year limited manufacturer's warranty on the alarm unit itself. This warranty does not cover battery performance. The warranty period begins when the alarm is powered on. If the power-on date is unknown, it should be assumed that replacement is needed after 10 years from the manufacture date printed on the unit.
Support
For technical assistance, service, or warranty claims, please contact Kidde Safety directly:
Kidde Safety
1016 Corporate Park Dr.
Mebane, NC 27302
Phone: (800) 880-6788
Additional resources and FAQs may be available on the official Kidde website.