Kidde Smoke Detector User Manual

Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your Kidde Hardwired Smoke Alarm, Model i12040. This ionization smoke alarm is designed to detect invisible fire particles, commonly associated with flaming fires, and provides an 85-decibel alarm upon detection. It operates on a 120-volt power source and includes a 9-volt battery backup for continuous protection during power outages. For your safety, please read and understand all instructions before installation and use.

The Kidde i12040 smoke detector is UL Certified and meets the requirements of UL 217, NFPA72 (chapter 11 2002 edition), NFPA101 (One and two-family dwellings), and Federal Housing Authority (FHA) standards.

Product Features

• Ionization Sensor Technology: Senses invisible fire particles, which are typically produced by fast-flaming fires.
• Hardwired with 9-Volt Battery Backup: Ensures continuous operation even during power failures.
• 85-Decibel Alarm: Provides a loud warning sound upon smoke detection.
• Red LED Indicator: Illuminates when the smoke detector is sensing smoke or fire.
• Test-Hush Button: Allows for easy testing of the alarm's functionality and temporarily silences nuisance alarms caused by cooking or shower steam.
• Low Battery Chirp: Alerts you when it's time to replace the 9-volt battery.
• Interconnect Capability: Can be interconnected with up to 18 compatible Kidde smoke, heat, or CO alarms, and potentially up to 6 strobe lights or relay modules, ensuring all alarms sound when one detects a hazard.
• UL Listed: Certified for safety and performance.

Image: The Kidde smoke detector with a list of its key features, including 9V battery backup, ionization sensor, easy installation, interconnectability, and a test/hush button.

Setup and Installation

Safety Precautions

• ALWAYS turn off power at the circuit breaker before beginning any electrical work.
• Verify that power is off using a voltage tester before touching any wires.
• If you are unsure about any part of the installation process, consult a qualified electrician.

Unboxing and Components

Upon opening the package, you will find the following components:

• Kidde Smoke Detector (Model i12040)
• Mounting Plate
• Wiring Harness/Adapter (if needed for compatibility)
• 9-Volt Battery (pre-installed)
• User Guide (this document)

Image: A front view of the Kidde smoke detector, showing its circular design, test button, and the hardwired electrical leads extending from the back.

Installation Steps

1. Turn off Power: Locate the circuit breaker that controls the power to the smoke alarm location and switch it to the OFF position.
2. Verify Power is Off: Use a non-contact voltage tester to confirm that there is no power to the existing wiring at the ceiling or wall box.
3. Remove Old Alarm (if applicable): Loosen the screws holding the old mounting plate to the ceiling box. Twist the old alarm counter-clockwise to detach it from the mounting plate. Disconnect the wiring harness from the old alarm and carefully remove the old mounting plate.
4. Connect New Wiring Harness: If your existing wiring harness does not match the new Kidde alarm, use the provided adapter. Connect the wires from the ceiling box to the new adapter using wire nuts: black to black (hot), white to white (neutral), and red to red (interconnect, if applicable). Ensure all connections are secure.
5. Mount the Plate: Push the connected wires back into the electrical box, leaving the three-prong connector hanging out. Align the new mounting plate with the existing screws in the electrical box. The mounting plate is universal and has multiple sets of holes to fit various box types. Twist the plate slightly to secure it on the screws, then tighten the screws to firmly attach the plate to the ceiling.
6. Connect the Alarm: Plug the three-prong adapter from the ceiling box into the corresponding receptacle on the back of the Kidde smoke alarm.
7. Attach the Alarm: Align the smoke alarm with the mounting plate and twist it clockwise until it clicks securely into place.
8. Activate Battery Backup: Pull the yellow protective tab from the battery compartment on the front of the alarm. This activates the pre-installed 9-volt battery backup.
9. Restore Power: Return to your circuit breaker and switch the power back ON.
10. Test the Alarm: Press and hold the Test-Hush button on the front of the alarm until it sounds. This confirms proper operation.

Image: A person reaching up to install a white smoke detector onto a ceiling, demonstrating the typical installation process.

Operating Instructions

Powering On

Once the smoke alarm is properly installed and power is restored, the unit will power on. The red LED indicator will flash periodically to confirm it is receiving AC power and functioning correctly.

Testing the Alarm

It is recommended to test your smoke alarm weekly to ensure it is operating correctly. To test:

• Press and hold the Test-Hush button located on the front of the alarm.
• The alarm will sound a loud, pulsating tone. Release the button once the alarm sounds.
• If the alarm does not sound, refer to the Troubleshooting section.

Image: A top-down view of the Kidde smoke detector, showing the central test/hush button and a green LED indicator light, signifying operational status.

Hush Feature

The Hush feature temporarily silences the alarm for approximately 10 minutes. This is useful for nuisance alarms caused by cooking smoke or shower steam. To activate:

• Press the Test-Hush button briefly when the alarm is sounding due to a non-emergency condition.
• The alarm will silence, and the red LED will flash every 10 seconds for the duration of the hush period.
• After 10 minutes, the alarm will automatically reset and sound again if smoke is still present.

Maintenance

Battery Replacement

The 9-volt battery provides backup power during outages. The alarm will chirp approximately once every 30-40 seconds when the battery is low and needs replacement. To replace the battery:

1. Turn off Power: Switch off the AC power to the smoke alarm at the circuit breaker.
2. Open Battery Compartment: Slide the battery door open on the front of the alarm.
3. Remove Old Battery: Disconnect and remove the old 9-volt battery.
4. Install New Battery: Connect a new 9-volt alkaline battery to the battery clip. Ensure correct polarity.
5. Close Compartment: Close the battery door securely.
6. Restore Power: Turn the AC power back on at the circuit breaker.
7. Test the Alarm: Press and hold the Test-Hush button to confirm proper operation.

Cleaning the Alarm

Clean your smoke alarm at least once a month to remove dust and debris. Excessive dust can cause nuisance alarms or prevent the alarm from functioning correctly.

• Turn off Power: Disconnect AC power at the circuit breaker.
• Remove from Mounting Plate: Twist the alarm counter-clockwise to remove it from the mounting plate.
• Vacuum/Brush: Use a soft brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to remove dust from the alarm's vents and cover. You can also use a soft, damp cloth to wipe the exterior.
• Reinstall: Reattach the alarm to the mounting plate by twisting clockwise.
• Restore Power: Turn the AC power back on.
• Test the Alarm: Press and hold the Test-Hush button to confirm proper operation.

DO NOT paint the alarm. Paint can clog the sensing chambers and prevent the alarm from operating correctly.

Troubleshooting

For more detailed troubleshooting, please refer to the full User Guide PDF linked in the Warranty and Support section.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

The Kidde Smoke Detector, Model i12040, comes with a 10-year limited manufacturer's warranty. This warranty begins when the alarm is powered on. If the power-on date is unknown, it should be assumed the alarm needs to be replaced after 10 years from the manufacturing date.

For complete warranty details, technical support, or further assistance, please refer to the official Kidde User Guide. You can access the PDF version of the User Guide here.

For additional information or to contact Kidde directly, please visit the official Kidde website or refer to the contact information provided in the packaging.