1. Introduction
The Kidde i12010SCO is a hardwired combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarm designed to provide protection from two hazards in a single unit. It features a 10-year sealed lithium battery backup, eliminating the need for battery replacement throughout the alarm's lifespan. This alarm utilizes intelligent sensor technology to offer a fast response to various fire types, including smoldering and fast-flaming fires, while also detecting carbon monoxide (CO) and reducing nuisance alarms.
Key Features:
- Dual Protection: Detects both smoke and carbon monoxide.
- 10-Year Sealed Battery Backup: No battery replacement required for the life of the alarm.
- Voice Warning System: Verbally announces "Fire" or "Warning, Carbon Monoxide" to clearly identify the hazard.
- Ionization Sensing Technology: Optimized for detecting fast-flaming fires.
- Hush Feature: Temporarily silences nuisance alarms for approximately 9 minutes.
- Interconnectable: Can connect with up to 24 compatible Kidde devices (18 initiating).
Figure 1: Kidde i12010SCO highlighting its 10-year battery and voice alarm capabilities.
2. Important Safety Information
WARNING: PLEASE READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE INSTALLATION AND OPERATION. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS MAY RESULT IN PROPERTY DAMAGE, INJURY, OR DEATH.
- This alarm is designed for residential use only.
- Regularly test the alarm weekly by pressing the test/reset button.
- Do not paint the alarm. Paint can clog the sensing chambers and prevent the alarm from operating properly.
- Do not install in areas with extreme temperatures or humidity.
- Ensure power is OFF at the circuit breaker before installation or maintenance.
3. Package Contents
Verify that the following items are included in your package:
- Kidde i12010SCO Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm
- Mounting Bracket
- Wiring Harness
- Installation Guide and User Manual
Figure 2: Front view of the Kidde i12010SCO alarm with its wiring harness.
4. Installation
This alarm is designed to be hardwired into a 120V AC circuit. It is recommended that a qualified electrician install this unit.
Installation Steps:
- Turn Off Power: Before beginning installation, ensure the power to the circuit where the alarm will be installed is turned off at the main fuse or circuit breaker panel.
- Remove Old Alarm (if applicable): If replacing an existing alarm, carefully remove it from its mounting bracket and disconnect the wiring harness.
- Install Mounting Bracket: Secure the new mounting bracket to the electrical box using the provided screws. Ensure the bracket is firmly attached.
- Connect Wiring Harness: Connect the new wiring harness to the household wiring. Match the wire colors: black to black (hot), white to white (neutral), and red to red (interconnect, if applicable). Use wire nuts to secure connections. If not interconnecting, cap the red wire.
- Attach Alarm to Harness: Plug the alarm unit into the wiring harness.
- Mount Alarm: Align the alarm with the mounting bracket and twist clockwise until it locks securely into place.
- Activate Battery Backup: Once the alarm is mounted, remove the battery activation tag (if present) to activate the sealed 10-year lithium battery backup.
- Restore Power: Turn the power back on at the main fuse or circuit breaker panel.
- Test Alarm: Press and hold the Test/Reset button for a few seconds until the alarm sounds and the voice announcement is heard.
Figure 3: Proper installation of the alarm on a ceiling.
Figure 4: The wiring harness for connecting the alarm to household electrical wiring.
Video 1: Official product video demonstrating the features and benefits of the Kidde Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector Alarm with Voice Warning.
5. Operation
Voice Warning System:
The alarm provides clear voice announcements to distinguish between smoke and carbon monoxide hazards:
- Smoke Detected: The alarm will sound and announce "Fire! Fire!"
- Carbon Monoxide Detected: The alarm will sound and announce "Warning, Carbon Monoxide!"
Figure 5: Visual representation of the voice warning system for smoke and carbon monoxide.
Test/Reset Button:
- Testing: Press and hold the Test/Reset button to test the alarm's circuitry and voice announcement. The alarm will cycle through its warning sounds and voice messages.
- Resetting: If the alarm is sounding due to a detected hazard, pressing the Test/Reset button will silence the alarm for a short period. If the hazard persists, the alarm will reactivate.
Hush Feature:
The Hush feature temporarily silences the alarm for approximately 9 minutes in case of a nuisance alarm (e.g., cooking smoke). To activate, press the Test/Reset button during an alarm. The alarm will enter Hush mode only if it is in an alarm state. After 9 minutes, the alarm will automatically reset and resume normal operation.
Figure 6: Location of the Test/Hush button on the alarm unit.
Interconnection:
This alarm can be interconnected with up to 24 compatible Kidde devices, with a maximum of 18 initiating devices. When one interconnected alarm senses a hazard, all interconnected alarms will sound, providing early warning throughout your home.
Figure 7: The Smart Interconnect feature allows multiple alarms to communicate.
6. Maintenance
Battery:
The Kidde i12010SCO features a sealed 10-year lithium battery that does not require replacement. The alarm is designed to operate for 10 years from the date of activation. After 10 years, the unit should be replaced.
Cleaning Your Alarm:
It is recommended to clean your alarm every six months to prevent dust and debris from interfering with its operation.
- Use a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove dust from the alarm's vents.
- Do not use water, cleaners, or solvents, as these can damage the unit.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Alarm chirps periodically | Low battery (after 10 years) or unit not properly seated. | Replace the entire alarm unit if it's past its 10-year life. Ensure the alarm is twisted securely onto its mounting bracket. |
| Nuisance alarms (false alarms) | Cooking fumes, steam, high humidity, dust, or insects. | Use the Hush feature. Relocate the alarm if it's consistently exposed to nuisance sources. Clean the alarm regularly. |
| Alarm does not sound during test | No AC power, battery not activated, or faulty unit. | Check circuit breaker. Ensure battery activation tag is removed. If issues persist, replace the unit. |
8. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | i12010SCO |
| Power Source | Hardwired (120 Volts AC) with 10-Year Sealed Lithium Battery Backup |
| Sensor Type | Ionization (Smoke) & Electrochemical (CO) |
| Alarm Type | Audible (85 dB at 10 feet) & Voice Warning |
| Operating Temperature | 40°F (4.4°C) to 100°F (37.8°C) |
| Operating Humidity | 10%-85% non-condensing relative humidity (RH) |
| Dimensions | 5.5 x 1.5 x 5.5 inches |
| Item Weight | 12 ounces (340 Grams) |
| Interconnectable | Up to 24 Kidde devices (18 initiating) |
Figure 8: Dimensions of the Kidde i12010SCO alarm.
9. Warranty and Support
Warranty Information:
Kidde offers a limited warranty for this product. Please refer to the warranty card included in your product packaging for specific terms and conditions, including the warranty period and coverage details. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Customer Support:
For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or warranty inquiries, please contact Kidde Customer Support. Contact information can typically be found on the product packaging or on the official Kidde website. It is recommended to have your product model number (i12010SCO) and date of purchase available when contacting support.
Online Resources: For additional information, FAQs, and product registration, visit the official Kidde website: www.kidde.com
