Introduction
The Kidde Model i12060A is a hardwired ionization smoke alarm designed for residential use. It operates on a 120V AC power source and includes a 9V battery backup to ensure continuous operation during power outages. This alarm utilizes ionization sensing technology to detect invisible fire particles, commonly associated with fast-flaming fires. For comprehensive fire safety, Kidde recommends installing both ionization and photoelectric smoke alarms.
Key Features
- Ionization Sensing Technology: Detects invisible fire particles from fast-flaming fires.
- 85 Decibel Alarm: Provides a loud alert in the event of smoke detection.
- Battery Backup: Equipped with a 9V battery (included) for operation during power failures.
- Front-Load Battery Door: Allows for easy battery replacement without removing the alarm from its mounting bracket.
- Test-Hush Button: Simplifies testing the alarm and silencing nuisance alarms.
- Interconnectable: Can be interconnected with up to 24 compatible Kidde devices (including smoke, CO, and heat alarms) for whole-home protection.
- LED Indicators: Red LED indicates alarm modes (Standby, Alarm, Alarm Memory, Hush); Green LED indicates AC power.
- UL Certified: Meets safety standards of UL217, NFPA72, NFPA 101, CA Fire Marshal, FHA, & HUD.
Figure 1: Diagram illustrating key features of the Kidde Smoke Detector, including front-loading battery door, 9V battery backup, ionization sensor, easy installation, interconnectability, and test/hush button.
Setup and Installation
The Kidde i12060A smoke alarm is designed for easy installation. It requires a 120V AC power source. The unit comes with a pre-stripped wiring harness and an easy-off cap for simplified wiring. Ensure power is off at the circuit breaker before beginning installation.
- Mounting Bracket Installation: Secure the mounting bracket to the ceiling or wall using the provided screws. The bracket typically requires two screws.
- Wiring Connection: Connect the alarm's wiring harness to your household electrical wiring. Follow local electrical codes and the wiring diagram provided in the full user manual. The unit features push-pin connectors for easy attachment.
- Battery Insertion: Insert the included 9V battery into the front-load battery compartment. Ensure correct polarity.
- Attach Alarm to Bracket: Align the smoke alarm with the mounting bracket and twist clockwise until it locks securely into place.
- Power On and Test: Restore power at the circuit breaker. The green LED should illuminate, indicating AC power. Press and hold the Test/Hush button to confirm the alarm sounds.
Figure 2: Rear view of the Kidde Smoke Detector, showing the mounting points and wiring connection area. Note the "DATE OF INSTALL" label for tracking.
Figure 3: Diagram showing the dimensions of the Kidde Hardwired 120V AC/DC Alarm, which is 5 inches in diameter and 1.75 inches in depth.
Figure 4: Home Safety Product Placement Guide illustrating recommended locations for smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms, fire extinguishers, and escape ladders within a typical home layout.
Operating Instructions
The Kidde i12060A smoke alarm features simple operation with clear visual indicators.
- Standby Mode: The red LED flashes approximately every 40 seconds, indicating the alarm is operating correctly. The green LED remains steadily lit when AC power is present.
- Alarm Mode: When smoke is detected, the alarm will sound a loud, continuous siren, and the red LED will flash rapidly.
- Alarm Memory: If the alarm has been activated and then silenced, the red LED will flash rapidly for a period to indicate that an alarm condition occurred.
- Hush Mode: To silence a nuisance alarm (e.g., from cooking smoke), press the Test/Hush button. The alarm will be silenced for approximately 7 minutes. The red LED will flash every 10 seconds during Hush mode.
- Testing the Alarm: Press and hold the Test/Hush button until the alarm sounds. This should be done weekly to ensure proper function.
Figure 5: Front view of the Kidde Smoke Detector showing the green LED illuminated, indicating that the unit is receiving AC power.
Maintenance
- Battery Replacement: The 9V battery should be replaced at least once a year, or immediately if the alarm chirps to indicate a low battery. The front-load battery door makes this process simple.
- Cleaning: Clean the smoke alarm regularly (at least once a month) to remove dust and debris that can interfere with its operation. Use a soft brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to clean around the vents. Do not paint the alarm.
- End of Life: This smoke alarm has a 10-year limited warranty. It is recommended to replace the alarm after 10 years from the date of installation, regardless of whether it appears to be functioning.
Figure 6: Front view of the Kidde Smoke Detector with the front-load battery door open, revealing the 9V battery compartment for easy access and replacement.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Alarm chirps periodically. | Low battery. | Replace the 9V battery. |
| Alarm sounds without apparent smoke. | Nuisance alarm (e.g., cooking smoke, high humidity), dust accumulation. | Press the Test/Hush button to silence. Clean the alarm. Ensure proper placement away from cooking areas or high humidity. |
| Green LED is off. | No AC power. | Check circuit breaker and wiring connections. |
| Alarm does not sound during test. | No power, faulty unit, or dead battery. | Check AC power and battery. If issues persist, replace the unit. |
For more detailed troubleshooting, refer to the official Troubleshooting Guide (PDF).
Specifications
- Brand: Kidde
- Model: i12060A
- Power Source: Hardwired (120 Volts AC) with 9V Battery Backup
- Sensor Type: Ionization
- Alarm Type: Fire Safety, Ionization, Wired, Interconnected, Tamper-Resistant
- Product Dimensions: 1.75"D x 5"W x 5"H
- Item Weight: 8 ounces
- Color: White
- Operating Humidity: 5% to 95% relative humidity, non-condensing
- Upper Temperature Rating: 100 Degrees Fahrenheit
- Compatible Devices: Up to 24 Kidde devices
- Certification: UL217, NFPA72, NFPA 101 (1 & 2 Family), CA Fire Marshall, FHA, HUD
- Included Components: Smoke Alarm, 9V Battery
- UPC: 047871297306
- Part Number: 21029730
- Date First Available: April 4, 2020
Warranty Information
The Kidde i12060A Smoke Detector comes with a 5-year limited warranty. This warranty period begins when the alarm is powered on. If the power-on date is unknown, it should be assumed that the alarm needs to be replaced after 10 years from the manufacturing date (typically found on the back of the unit).
Support and Additional Resources
For complete operating instructions, detailed installation diagrams, and further information, please refer to the official documents:
You can also visit the official Kidde Store on Amazon for more products and information.
