1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your Firehawk FHN250BB Mains Powered Optical Multi-Criteria-Enhanced Smoke Alarm. Please read these instructions thoroughly before installation and retain for future reference. This device is designed to detect smoke and provide an early warning of fire, contributing to household safety.
Image 1.1: Top-down view of the Firehawk FHN250BB Smoke Alarm, showing its compact, white circular design with ventilation slots.
2. Safety Information
It is crucial to adhere to all safety guidelines during installation and operation. Failure to do so may result in improper functioning of the alarm or electrical hazards.
- Electrical Safety: Installation must be carried out by a qualified electrician in accordance with local wiring regulations. Always isolate the mains power supply before commencing any work on the alarm.
- Placement: Install smoke alarms in all living areas, hallways, and bedrooms. Avoid placing alarms in kitchens, bathrooms, or garages where steam, cooking fumes, or exhaust gases could cause nuisance alarms.
- Interconnection: If interlinking multiple alarms, ensure compatibility. This unit may not be compatible with wired interconnects from other brands.
- Testing: Test the alarm weekly and after any power outage or battery replacement.
- Maintenance: Do not paint the alarm. Keep it clean and free from dust.
Image 2.1: The Firehawk FHN250BB Smoke Alarm displaying regulatory compliance marks including UKCA, CE, and TÜV Rheinland Certified logos.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in the package before beginning installation:
- Firehawk FHN250BB Smoke Alarm Unit
- Mounting Base Plate
- Fixing Screws and Wall Plugs
- Alkaline AAA Batteries (for backup)
- Instruction Manual (this document)
Image 3.1: Contents of the Firehawk FHN250BB package, showing the smoke alarm unit, a pack of AAA batteries, and two sets of mounting screws with wall plugs.
4. Setup and Installation
Important: Installation must be performed by a competent person, such as a qualified electrician, and comply with all national and local electrical codes.
- Isolate Power: Before starting, ensure the mains power supply to the circuit where the alarm will be installed is switched off at the consumer unit.
- Select Location: Choose a suitable location on the ceiling, away from corners, light fittings, and air vents. Refer to local regulations for specific placement guidelines.
- Mount Base Plate: Use the provided screws and wall plugs to securely fix the mounting base plate to the ceiling.
- Wire Connections: Connect the mains wiring (Live, Neutral, and Interconnect if applicable) to the terminals on the base plate. Ensure correct polarity and secure connections. The base plate features easy-connect terminals.
Image 4.1: Detailed view of the Firehawk smoke alarm base plate, highlighting the 'L' (Live), 'I' (Interconnect), and 'N' (Neutral) wiring terminals for mains connection.
- Install Batteries: Insert the alkaline AAA backup batteries into the battery compartment on the alarm unit. Ensure correct orientation.
- Attach Alarm Unit: Align the alarm unit with the base plate and twist clockwise until it clicks securely into place.
- Restore Power: Switch the mains power supply back on. The alarm should emit a short beep and the LED indicator will illuminate, signifying it is receiving power.
- Test Alarm: Press and hold the test button on the alarm unit for a few seconds. The alarm should sound loudly. If it does not, refer to the troubleshooting section.
5. Operating Instructions
The Firehawk FHN250BB operates continuously once installed and powered. It features a test button and a silence function.
5.1. Normal Operation
During normal operation, the green LED indicator will flash approximately every 45 seconds, indicating that the alarm is receiving mains power and functioning correctly. The red LED will flash briefly during the self-test cycle.
5.2. Testing the Alarm
Press and hold the large central test button on the alarm cover for at least 5 seconds. The alarm will sound a loud, pulsating signal. Release the button to stop the alarm. Test the alarm weekly to ensure proper functionality.
5.3. Silence Function (Hush Mode)
In the event of a nuisance alarm (e.g., from cooking fumes), press the test/hush button. This will silence the alarm for approximately 10 minutes. The red LED will flash every 10 seconds during the hush period. The alarm will automatically reset after 10 minutes. If the smoke is still present, the alarm will sound again.
6. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and reliability of your smoke alarm.
6.1. Battery Replacement
The FHN250BB uses alkaline AAA batteries for backup power. When the batteries are low, the alarm will chirp approximately every 45 seconds, and the red LED will flash. Replace all batteries immediately with new, high-quality alkaline AAA batteries (e.g., McNair LR03, Duracell MN2400, or Reiden LR03 AAA batteries).
- Isolate mains power to the alarm circuit.
- Gently twist the alarm unit counter-clockwise to remove it from the base plate.
- Open the battery compartment and remove the old batteries.
- Insert new AAA alkaline batteries, ensuring correct polarity.
- Reattach the alarm unit to the base plate by twisting clockwise until secure.
- Restore mains power and test the alarm.
Image 6.1: The underside of the Firehawk smoke alarm, revealing the battery compartment with a spring mechanism and a label detailing battery replacement instructions and manufacturing dates.
6.2. Cleaning
Clean the smoke alarm at least once a month. Use a soft brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to remove dust and debris from the alarm's vents and cover. Do not use cleaning solvents or spray chemicals directly onto the alarm.
7. Troubleshooting
If your smoke alarm is not functioning as expected, consult the following table:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Alarm chirps every 45 seconds | Low backup battery | Replace alkaline AAA batteries (refer to Section 6.1). |
| Alarm does not sound during test | No mains power, flat backup batteries, or faulty unit | Check mains power supply. Replace backup batteries. If problem persists, contact support. |
| Nuisance alarms | Steam, cooking fumes, dust, or insects | Press hush button. Relocate alarm if consistently triggered by non-fire sources. Clean alarm (refer to Section 6.2). |
| Alarm unit not securing to base plate | Misalignment or obstruction | Ensure correct alignment and twist firmly until it clicks. Check for any obstructions. |
8. Specifications
- Model Number: FHN250BB
- Power Source: 230V ~ 50Hz Mains Powered with Alkaline Battery Backup
- Battery Type: 3 x AAA Alkaline (included)
- Sensor Type: Optical Multi-Criteria-Enhanced
- Dimensions: 5.5 x 11.3 x 5.5 cm
- Weight: 200 g
- Operating Temperature: 0°C to 40°C
- Humidity: 10% to 90% RH (non-condensing)
- Approvals: EN 14604:2005, CE, UKCA
9. Warranty and Support
Firehawk products are manufactured to high standards and are backed by a manufacturer's warranty. For specific warranty details, including duration and terms, please refer to the documentation supplied with your product or visit the official Firehawk website. For technical support, troubleshooting assistance beyond this manual, or warranty claims, please contact Firehawk customer service through their official channels.
Contact Information: Refer to the product packaging or the official Firehawk website for the most current contact details.
