Introduction
The Kidde Hardwired Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector, model 900-CUAR, is a combination alarm designed to detect both smoke and carbon monoxide gas within a single unit. This device operates via your home's 120V AC wiring and includes two AA batteries for backup power during outages. It features self-testing components to ensure continuous operation and utilizes photoelectric sensing technology for smoke detection and an electrochemical sensor for carbon monoxide. The alarm provides an 85-decibel alert and flashing red LEDs during an event. LED indicators display the alarm's status: green for normal operation, amber for faulty operation or connection, and red for an alarm condition. A Smart-Hush button allows temporary silencing of nuisance alarms. For optimal safety, install these combo detectors on every level of your home and near sleeping areas. This product is UL Certified and comes with a 10-year limited manufacturer's warranty.
Key Features
- 2-in-1 Detection: Detects both smoke/fire events and poisonous carbon monoxide (CO) gas.
- 24/7 Self-testing: Internal components continuously check the device's functionality.
- Easy Installation: Includes a mounting bracket for quick installation in four orientations.
- Dual Sensor Technology: Photoelectric sensor for smoldering fires and electrochemical sensor for carbon monoxide.
- Visual & Audible Alerts: 85-decibel alarm and LED indicators (Green for normal, Amber for fault, Red for alarm).
- Battery Backup: Operates during power outages using two included AA batteries.
- UL Certified: Meets safety standards with a 10-year limited warranty.
- Interconnectable: Alarms can connect with select other Kidde hardwired AC interconnect alarms, ensuring all connected alarms sound when one detects an issue.
- Smart-Hush Button: Temporarily silences nuisance alarms for approximately 8 minutes.
Image: The Kidde 2-in-1 Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm, highlighting its dual detection capabilities for both smoke and CO.
Image: Visual summary of key features including smoke/CO detection, hardwired with battery backup, UL listing, self-testing, hush feature, and end-of-life chirp.
Setup and Installation
The Kidde 900-CUAR alarm is designed for hardwired installation, connecting directly to your home's 120V AC electrical system. It also includes two AA batteries for backup power, ensuring continuous operation even during power outages. A mounting bracket is provided to facilitate quick and secure installation in four different orientations.
Recommended Placement:
Install a combination smoke and carbon monoxide detector on every level of your home, including the basement, and especially near sleeping areas. Avoid placing alarms within 6 feet of cooking appliances, 10 feet of cooking or shower steam, or 20 feet of furnaces to prevent nuisance alarms. Refer to the detailed user guide for specific placement recommendations based on NFPA guidelines and local codes.
Image: The included mounting bracket, designed for simple and quick installation in four orientations.
Image: View of the battery compartment, showing the two AA batteries that provide backup power. Hardwiring must be unplugged before changing batteries.
Image: A diagram illustrating recommended placement of smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms, and other safety devices within a home.
Operating Instructions
Once properly installed and powered, the Kidde 900-CUAR alarm continuously monitors for smoke and carbon monoxide. The unit features an 85-decibel alarm and flashing red LEDs to alert you to a detected hazard. The LED warning lights provide clear status indications:
- Green LED: Indicates normal operation and proper power connection.
- Amber LED: Signals a faulty operation or connection issue.
- Red LED: Flashes during a smoke, fire, or carbon monoxide event, accompanied by the audible alarm.
In case of a nuisance alarm (e.g., from cooking fumes), press the Smart-Hush button to temporarily silence the unit for approximately 8 minutes. The alarm will automatically reset after this period if the air has cleared.
Image: Visual representation of the LED notification lights and their corresponding alarm statuses: Green (Powered On), Amber (Fault/Error), and Red (Smoke/CO Alarm).
Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure your alarm functions correctly. While the device includes 24/7 self-testing components, this is not a substitute for manual testing. Perform a button test once per week to verify proper alarm operation. The alarm is designed to last for 10 years, after which it will alert you when it's time for replacement.
- Weekly Test: Press and hold the test button until the alarm sounds. This confirms the battery, alarm, and electronics are working.
- Battery Replacement: Replace the AA backup batteries as indicated by the alarm's low battery warning. Ensure the hardwiring is disconnected before replacing batteries.
- Cleaning: Periodically clean the alarm's exterior with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use cleaning solvents or spray directly onto the unit.
- End-of-Life: After 10 years, the alarm will signal that it needs to be replaced. Do not attempt to repair the unit.
Image: The alarm unit with a clock graphic, indicating its 24/7 self-testing capability. A note reminds users that self-testing is not a substitute for a manual push test.
Image: The alarm unit with sound waves, emphasizing its 10-year detection lifespan and end-of-life notification feature.
Troubleshooting
If your Kidde Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector is not functioning as expected, refer to the following common issues and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Alarm sounds intermittently or "chirps" | Low battery, end-of-life warning, or dust accumulation. | Replace batteries. If chirping persists after battery replacement, the unit may have reached its end-of-life and needs replacement. Clean the alarm's vents. |
| Alarm sounds frequently without apparent smoke/CO | Nuisance alarm from cooking, steam, or excessive dust. | Press the Smart-Hush button. Ventilate the area. Clean the alarm. Relocate the alarm if it's too close to cooking appliances or bathrooms. |
| Amber LED is lit or flashing | Faulty operation or connection error. | Ensure proper hardwired connection. Perform a manual test. If the fault persists, the unit may need replacement. |
| Alarm does not sound during test | No power, dead batteries, or unit malfunction. | Check power connection. Replace batteries. If still unresponsive, the unit may be defective and require replacement. |
For more detailed troubleshooting, please refer to the complete User Guide provided with your product or available online.
Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Kidde |
| Model Number | 900-CUAR |
| Style | 6th Edition Alarm |
| Power Source | Corded Electric (120 Volts) |
| Battery Backup | 2 AA batteries (included) |
| Color | White |
| Item Weight | 7.17 ounces |
| Alarm Type | Fire, Smoke, Carbon Monoxide |
| Sensor Type | Photoelectric, Electrochemical |
| Operating Humidity | 10% to 95% relative humidity, non condensing |
| Upper Temperature Rating | 100 Degrees Fahrenheit |
| Material | Plastic |
| Number of Items | 4 (in pack) |
| UPC | 047871322558 |
| Installation Method | Hardwired |
| Mounting Type | Ceiling |
| Certification | UL Listed |
| Included Components | 8 AA Batteries, Alarm, User Guide |
| Dimensions (Diameter x Height) | 4.95 Inches x 1.93 Inches |
Image: Diagram showing the dimensions of the Kidde Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm: 4.95 inches in diameter and 1.93 inches in height.
Warranty and Support
The Kidde Hardwired Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector comes with a 10-year limited manufacturer's warranty. For detailed warranty information, product support, or to access the full user guide, please refer to the documentation included with your product or visit the official Kidde website.
You can also find the User Guide (PDF) here.
