First Alert SM500V Smoke Alarm User's Manual

01 Introduction

Thank you for choosing First Alert® for your Smoke Alarm needs. This manual provides information on your state-of-the-art Smoke Alarm designed for early warning of fire. Please read this manual and integrate the Smoke Alarm into your family's safety plan.

Basic Safety Information

Warning!

• This unit will not alert hearing-impaired residents. Special units with visual alerts are recommended.
• Do not connect this unit to any other alarm or auxiliary device; it is a single-station unit.
• The unit requires battery power to operate and must be activated.

Caution!

• Do not install over an electrical junction box; air currents can prevent proper function. Only AC-powered units are intended for junction box installation.
• Avoid standing too close to the alarm when sounding, as the horn is loud and can harm hearing at close range.
• Do not paint over the unit, as paint can clog sensing chamber openings.

02 About Smoke Alarms

Types of Alarms

Smoke alarms are designed to provide early warning of fires. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standards 72 and 101 provide guidance. Local building codes may also apply.

• Battery (DC) Operated: Provide protection during power failures if batteries are fresh and installed correctly. Easy to install, but lack interconnected functionality.
• AC Powered: Can be interconnected so all alarms sound when one detects smoke. Do not operate during power failures.
• AC with Battery (DC) Back-up: Operate during power failures if batteries are fresh and installed correctly. Require professional installation by a qualified electrician.
• For Solar/Wind Energy Users: AC powered alarms require true or pure sine wave inverters. Avoid most battery-powered UPS or square wave/quasi sine wave inverters, as they can damage the alarm.
• For the Hearing Impaired: Special units with visual and audible alarms are available and meet ADA requirements. These can be interconnected.

Smoke alarms are not to be used with detector guards unless evaluated for suitability. All First Alert® Smoke Alarms conform to UL217 standards.

Detection Technologies

• Ionization Technology: More sensitive to small particles, typically produced by flaming fires (e.g., paper burning).
• Photoelectric Technology: More sensitive to large particles, typically produced by smoldering fires (e.g., cigarettes in bedding).

For maximum protection, use both types of smoke alarms on each level and in every bedroom.

03 Installation

Where to Install This Alarm

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends one smoke alarm on every floor, in every sleeping area, and in every bedroom. For added protection, install an additional alarm at least 15 feet (4.6 meters) away from fuel-burning heat sources.

General Installation Recommendations:

• On every level of your home, including finished attics and basements.
• Inside every bedroom, especially if doors are closed during sleep.
• In the hall near every sleeping area. If multiple sleeping areas exist, install a unit in each.
• At each end of halls longer than 40 feet (12 meters).
• At the top of first-to-second floor stairs.
• At the bottom of basement stairs.
• For additional coverage, install in all rooms, halls, and storage areas where temperatures are between 40°F (4.4°C) and 100°F (37.8°C).

Recommended Placement Visual Description:

A diagram illustrates recommended placement: one smoke alarm on every level and in every bedroom; one carbon monoxide alarm on every level and in every bedroom; one fire extinguisher on every level, plus kitchen and garage.

Mounting Location Details:

• Wall Mounting: Top edge of alarm 4-12 inches (102-305 mm) from the wall/ceiling line.
• Ceiling Mounting: As close to the center of the ceiling as possible.
• General: Install at least 4 inches (102 mm) from where the wall and ceiling meet. Ensure no obstructions block smoke from reaching the alarm.

Where Not to Install This Alarm

Avoid installing in:

• Garages, furnace rooms, crawl spaces, unfinished attics; dusty, dirty, or greasy areas.
• Areas where combustion particles are produced (e.g., poorly ventilated kitchens, furnace rooms). Keep at least 20 feet (6 meters) from sources like stoves, furnaces, water heaters, or space heaters. If this distance is not possible, place as far away as feasible.
• Within 5 feet (1.5 meters) of cooking appliances or in air streams near kitchens.
• Extremely humid areas (at least 10 feet (3 meters) from showers, saunas, humidifiers, etc.).
• In direct sunlight.
• In turbulent air (near ceiling fans or open windows).
• Areas with temperatures below 40°F (4.4°C) or above 100°F (37.8°C) (e.g., non-air-conditioned spaces).
• Insect-infested areas.
• Less than 12 inches (305 mm) from fluorescent lights.
• "Dead air" spaces.

Avoiding Dead Air Spaces

To avoid dead air spaces, install alarms close to the center of ceilings or at least 4 inches (102 mm) from walls/corners. For peaked ceilings, install within 3 feet (0.9 meters) of the peak.

Wireless Operation

First Alert® Wireless Interconnect Technology allows compatible alarms to communicate wirelessly. When one alarm sounds, all interconnected alarms sound, providing earlier warning. The typical communication range is 100 feet (30 meters), but can be affected by home structure and materials. Alarms operate as a mesh network. A maximum of 18 compatible units (12 smoke alarms) can be interconnected. Compatible models include SMCO500V and SM500V.

Important Wireless Notes:

• Test each alarm individually before and after installation.
• Do not use outdoors or between buildings.
• Metal objects and metallic wallpaper can interfere with signals. Test after home renovations or furniture changes.

How to Install This Alarm

This unit is designed for ceiling or wall mounting. It is not a tabletop device.

Tools Needed:

Pencil, drill with 3/16" (5 mm) drill bit, flathead screwdriver, hammer.

Parts of the Smoke Alarm:

• 1: Battery compartment
• 2: Test/Silence button
• 3: Power/Smoke Alarm LED
• 4: Turn this way to remove [Turn to remove indicator]
• 5: Turn this way to attach [Turn to attach indicator]
• 6: Mounting bracket
• 7: Mounting slots

Installation Steps:

1. Choose a location (refer to "Where to Install"). Warning: Do not install over an existing electrical box.
2. Hold the mounting bracket against the ceiling/wall, align the vertical slot at 12 o'clock, and trace the inside of the mounting slots.
3. Place the unit where dust won't cover it during drilling.
4. Drill holes through the traced outlines using a 3/16" (5 mm) bit.
5. Insert plastic screw anchors into the holes; tap flush with a hammer if needed.
6. Align the mounting bracket over the anchors and screw it to the ceiling/wall using the provided screws.
7. Install batteries: first the outer one, then the inner one. Match polarity (+/-). Push until they snap securely. The unit will provide LED and horn prompts.
8. Position the alarm base over the bracket and turn clockwise until it locks in place.
9. Test the alarm (see "Weekly Testing").

Adding and Linking Additional Wireless Interconnect Alarms

1. Designate one unit as "Primary". Insert batteries, close drawer. A chirp indicates activation. Follow verbal instructions or guide to set location.
2. Prepare "Secondary" units: Insert batteries but KEEP THE DRAWER OPEN. Press and hold the test button while closing the drawer. Continue holding until a chirp is heard; the LED should blink green.
3. Press and hold the test button on the "Primary" unit. Secondary units should chirp or speak, indicating they are paired.
4. If the unit has voice & location, follow prompts to set the location.
5. Repeat steps 2-3 to link additional alarms.
6. Press and hold the test button on any unit to test all paired units. Ensure the button is held until each unit chirps or says "Testing".

Step-by-Step Guide to Programming This Alarm

For First Time and When Changing Batteries:

Available Locations: Basement, Hallway, Office, Child’s Bedroom, Kitchen, Utility Room, Dining Room, Living Room, Family Room, Master Bedroom, Guest Bedroom, No Location.

Alarm Status Indicators:

04 Alarm Features

• Early Warning Interconnect: When one alarm sounds, all compatible alarms sound.
• Voice & Location Alerts: Provides verbal notifications of danger and its location.
• End of Life Warning: Notifies when the unit needs replacement.

Latching Feature

Alarm Latch: After smoke levels drop, the Red Smoke/Power LED flashes red (2 sec on/2 sec off) for about 15 minutes to help identify the initiating alarm.

Low Battery Latch: When the battery is low, the Smoke/Power LED flashes green (2 sec on/2 sec off) for about 15 minutes. This helps identify which alarm needs a battery. The low battery chirp may have longer intervals initially.

To Lock the Battery Compartment

Important: Do not lock until the battery is installed and tested. If the unit does not alarm during testing, replace the battery and test again. If it still fails, replace the alarm immediately.

1. Using needle-nose pliers, detach one locking pin from the mounting bracket.
2. After installing batteries, push the locking pin through the hole near the battery door latch.

To Unlock the Battery Compartment

1. Remove the alarm from the mounting bracket.
2. Insert a flathead screwdriver under the locking pin head and pry it out. Save the pin if relocking.
3. To relock, close the battery door and reinsert the pin.
4. Reattach the alarm to the mounting bracket.

Important: Always test the alarm before relocking the battery compartment when replacing batteries.

Optional Locking Feature

This feature prevents unauthorized removal. It is not necessary in single-family homes without such concerns.

Tools Needed:

Needle-nose pliers or utility knife, flathead screwdriver.

The feature uses a locking pin molded into the mounting bracket. Remove the pin using pliers or a utility knife.

Important: To permanently remove the pin, insert a flathead screwdriver between the pin and the lock and pry it out.

To Lock the Mounting Bracket:

1. Detach the pin from the mounting bracket using needle-nose pliers.
2. Insert the locking pin through the hole on the back of the smoke alarm.
3. When attaching the alarm to the bracket, the pin's head fits into a notch on the bracket.

To Unlock the Mounting Bracket:

1. Insert a flathead screwdriver between the mounting bracket and the locking pin.
2. Pry the alarm away from the bracket by pushing up the screwdriver and turning the alarm counterclockwise simultaneously.

05 Testing & Maintenance

Weekly Testing

Warning!

• Never use an open flame or vehicle exhaust to test the unit.
• Do not stand close to the alarm when sounding; it may harm hearing. Step away when the horn sounds.

Caution!

Test the unit weekly to ensure proper operation. Use the test button.

Press and hold the Test/Silence button until the voice says "Testing" (approx. 3-5 seconds). If the unit does not alarm, check battery installation and test again. Replace immediately if it still fails.

Regular Maintenance

This unit requires minimal maintenance:

• Test at least once a week.
• Clean the unit monthly by gently vacuuming the exterior with a soft brush attachment or using compressed air (follow manufacturer instructions). Test after cleaning. Do not use water, cleaners, or solvents.
• Replace the unit immediately if it becomes contaminated and cannot be cleaned to avoid unwanted alarms.
• Relocate the unit if it frequently causes unwanted alarms.
• Cover or protect the alarm during home maintenance like sanding or painting.

Choosing a Replacement Battery

Requires two standard AA batteries. Acceptable replacements include Eveready Energizer E91 or Duracell MN1500.

Warning!

• Use only specified batteries. Do not use rechargeable batteries. Clean battery contacts before installation. Install with correct polarity.
• Dispose of or recycle used batteries according to local regulations. Do not dispose of in fire, as batteries may explode or leak.

Warning!

Keep batteries out of reach of children. If swallowed, contact a poison control center or physician immediately.

Important:

Battery life varies. Replace batteries immediately when the unit chirps the "low battery warning."

To Replace Batteries (without removing from mounting):

1. Open the battery compartment.
2. Press tabs A and B to remove each battery.
3. Insert new batteries, ensuring they snap in completely and terminals match the unit's.
4. Close the compartment and test the unit.

Troubleshooting Guide

*For acceptable replacement batteries, see "Regular Maintenance."

For questions, contact the Consumer Support Team at 1-800-323-9005.

Fire Safety Tips

Follow safety rules to prevent hazardous situations:

• Use smoking materials properly; never smoke in bed.
• Keep matches/lighters away from children.
• Store flammable materials in proper containers.
• Maintain electrical appliances and avoid overloading circuits.
• Keep stoves, grills, fireplaces, and chimneys clean.
• Never leave cooking unattended.
• Keep portable heaters and open flames away from flammable materials.
• Don't let rubbish accumulate. Keep alarms clean and test weekly. Replace non-working alarms immediately.
• Keep a fire extinguisher on every level and in the kitchen. Have fire escape ladders or other means of escape from upper levels.
• Have and practice an escape plan regularly.

06 If Your Smoke Alarm Sounds

Identify the Type of Alarm Signal

"Smart Interconnect" Feature

This alarm can interconnect with other First Alert® Smoke and Heat Alarms. When smoke is detected, all alarms sound the smoke pattern. If CO is detected in a compatible CO or Smoke & CO Alarm, interconnected alarms sound the CO pattern. Non-interconnected alarms remain silent during a CO alarm.

Responding to an Alarm

Warning!

• If the unit alarms (and you are not testing it), it signals a potentially dangerous situation requiring immediate attention. Never ignore an alarm; doing so may result in injury or death.
• Never remove batteries from a battery-operated alarm to stop an unwanted alarm (e.g., from cooking smoke). This disables the alarm and removes protection. Instead, open a window or fan smoke away. The alarm will reset automatically.
• If the unit alarms, get everyone out of the house immediately.

What to Do in Case of Fire

• Stay calm and follow your family escape plan.
• Exit the house quickly; do not stop to dress or collect belongings.
• Feel doors with the back of your hand before opening. Open cool doors slowly; do not open hot doors. Keep doors and windows closed unless needed for escape.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a cloth (preferably damp) and take short, shallow breaths.
• Meet at a planned location outside and conduct a head count.
• Call the Fire Department from outside, providing your address and name.
• Never re-enter a burning building.
• Contact your Fire Department for home safety advice.

Warning!

Alarms have limitations. See "General Limitations of Smoke Alarms."

07 Using the Silence Features

Warning!

Never remove batteries to quiet an unwanted alarm; this disables the alarm and removes protection.

The Silence Feature temporarily silences the horn to identify and correct a problem. Do not use in emergency situations.

To silence an unwanted alarm, press the Test/Silence button for 3-5 seconds. The Red LED blinks during silence mode. The alarm remains silent for up to 15 minutes, then resumes normal operation. If smoke persists or increases, it will alarm again.

Silencing the Low Battery Warning

This feature temporarily quiets the low battery warning chirp for up to 8 hours. Press the Test/Silence button. The unit continues to flash the Green Light once a minute for 8 hours. After 8 hours, the chirp will resume. Replace batteries promptly, as the unit will not operate without power.

To deactivate: Press the Test/Silence button again. The unit enters Test Mode, and the low battery warning (LED flash and chirp) will resume.

Silencing the End of Life Signal

This feature temporarily quiets the End of Life warning chirp for up to 2 days, for a total of 14 days. Press the Test/Silence button; the horn will chirp to acknowledge activation. After approximately 2 days, the End of Life chirp will resume.

If You Suspect a Problem

Problems may be due to dead/weak batteries, dirt/dust/grease buildup, or improper location. Clean the unit, install fresh batteries, and test again. If it fails to test properly or the problem persists, replace the alarm immediately.

• If you hear 3 or 5 chirps per minute, replace the alarm.
• For frequent non-emergency alarms, try relocating the unit.
• If the alarm sounds with no visible smoke, clean or relocate it. The cover may be dirty.
• If the alarm does not sound during testing, ensure the power pack activating lever is securely pushed.

Do not attempt to fix the alarm yourself; this voids the warranty.

If the alarm is still not operating properly and is under warranty, refer to "How to Obtain Warranty Service" in the Limited Warranty section.

08 Regulatory Information for Smoke Alarms

Recommended Locations for Smoke Alarms

Installing Smoke Alarms in Single-Family Residences

NFPA recommends one smoke alarm on every floor, in every sleeping area, and in every bedroom. New construction typically requires interconnected AC-powered alarms. For additional coverage, install alarms in all rooms, halls, storage areas, finished attics, and basements where temperatures are between 40°F (4.4°C) and 100°F (37.8°C). Ensure no obstructions block smoke detection.

More Specifically, Install Smoke Alarms:

• On every level of your home, including finished attics and basements.
• Inside every bedroom, especially if doors are closed.
• In the hall near every sleeping area; install a unit in each if multiple sleeping areas exist.
• At each end of halls over 40 feet (12 meters) long.
• At the top of first-to-second floor stairs and the bottom of basement stairs.

Important: Installation requirements vary by location. Check with your local Fire Department. Interconnecting AC or AC/DC units is recommended for added protection.

Placement Recommendations Visual Description:

Diagrams illustrate placement for Existing Homes, New Construction, Multi-Story Residence, and 1-Story Residence, showing minimum protection with smoke alarms and additional coverage with interconnected AC/DC smoke alarms.

09 Agency Placement Recommendations

Standards: Underwriters Laboratories Inc. Single and Multiple Station Smoke Alarms 217.

NFPA 72 CHAPTER 29:

29.5.1* Required Detection: Approved single and multiple-station Smoke Alarms shall be installed as follows:

• In all sleeping rooms and guest rooms.
• Outside of each separate dwelling unit sleeping area, within 21 ft (6.4 m) of any door to a sleeping room, measured along the path of travel.
• On every level of a dwelling unit, including basements.
• On every level of a residential board and care occupancy (small facility), including basements (excluding crawl spaces and unfinished attics).
• In the living area(s) of a guest suite.
• In the living area(s) of a residential board and care occupancy (small facility).

(Reprinted with permission from NFPA 72®, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code Copyright © 2012 National Fire Protection Association, Quincy, MA 02269.)

CALIFORNIA STATE FIRE MARSHAL (CSFM):

For early warning detection, install fire detection equipment in all rooms and areas: a smoke alarm in each separate sleeping area (outside bedrooms), and heat or smoke alarms in living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, hallways, finished attics, furnace rooms, closets, utility and storage rooms, basements, and attached garages.

10 Special Compliance Considerations

This Smoke Alarm is suitable for apartments, condominiums, townhouses, hospitals, day care facilities, health care facilities, boarding houses, group homes, and dormitories, provided a primary fire detection system exists for common areas. Using this alarm in common areas may not provide sufficient warning or meet local ordinances.

This alarm is not a substitute for complete fire detection systems in places housing many people (apartment buildings, hotels, dormitories, hospitals, etc.) or in warehouses, industrial, or commercial buildings requiring specialized systems. It may be used for additional protection in these facilities based on local building codes.

New construction often requires AC or AC/DC powered smoke alarms. Existing construction may use AC, AC/DC, or DC powered alarms as per local codes. Installation should comply with NFPA 72 and local building codes.

HUD MAP Program

This alarm does not meet the 10-year sealed tamper-resistant battery requirement for certain HUD MAP applications. Substitute First Alert SA340B.

FCC Compliance

This equipment complies with FCC Part 15 limits for Class B digital devices, designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in residential installations. It generates, uses, and radiates radio frequency energy. If interference occurs, try reorienting the antenna, increasing separation, connecting to a different circuit, or consulting a technician.

Warning!

Unauthorized modifications can void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

This device complies with FCC Rules Part 15, subject to two conditions: (1) it may not cause harmful interference, and (2) it must accept any interference received.

11 General Limitations of Smoke Alarms

This Smoke Alarm is for residential use only, not industrial applications requiring OSHA standards for carbon monoxide alarms. It is not intended for hearing-impaired residents; special units are recommended.

Smoke alarms may not waken all individuals. Practice escape plans regularly. Ensure assistance for those with mobility limitations or who do not wake easily. Hold drills during sleep to assess response.

Alarms require power. Battery units fail if batteries are missing, dead, or incorrectly installed. AC units fail if power is cut off. For concerns about power limitations, install both types of units.

The alarm only senses smoke that reaches its sensors. Doors or obstructions can impede smoke detection. For homes with closed bedroom doors, install alarms in each bedroom and hallway.

Alarms may not sense smoke on different levels. Minimum protection is one alarm per sleeping area, bedroom, and home level. Battery-powered alarms can supplement interconnected AC alarms.

Alarm loudness meets UL standards (85 dB at 10 feet). However, sound may be blocked by distance, closed doors, or ambient noise (traffic, appliances). It is not intended for the hearing impaired.

Fires can cause damage, injury, or death before the alarm sounds if smoke does not reach the unit immediately (e.g., smoking in bed, rapid fires). This alarm is not a substitute for life insurance; First Alert does not warrant that it will protect lives.

The alarm has a limited life. Parts can fail. Test weekly and replace immediately if not operating properly.

Like all electronic devices, smoke alarms have limitations. They only detect smoke reaching the sensors and may not provide early warning for smoke in remote areas.

12 Limited Warranty

First Alert® warrants this product to be free from defects in material and workmanship for ten years from the date of purchase. First Alert will repair or replace defective products or components with new or remanufactured parts. Replacements may be with similar products of equal or greater value.

This warranty is valid for the original retail purchaser and requires proof of purchase (sales receipt). It does not cover normal wear, misuse, improper voltage, unauthorized repairs, or Acts of God (fire, flood, etc.). Batteries included with the unit are also not covered.

First Alert is not liable for incidental or consequential damages. Implied warranties are limited to the duration of this express warranty, subject to applicable law.

How to Obtain Warranty Service

Contact the Consumer Support Team at 1-800-323-9005. Have the model number and date of purchase ready.

Battery: First Alert makes no warranty regarding batteries.

Disposal: Follow local guidelines for battery and electronics disposal/recycling.

For Your Records:

Date Purchased: ___________________________

Where Purchased: __________________________

Date Installed: __________/__________Month/Year

Replace Alarm 10 years after installation. Please write the date:_____________/____________ Month/Year

The alarm will provide an audible End-of-Life Signal approximately 10 years after installation. This signal can be silenced for up to 2 days.

Printed in Mexico | M08-0604-000 03/23

CONFORMS TO UL STD 217

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