First Alert Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms User Manuals

User Manual: First Alert 9120LBLA Hardwire Smoke Alarm with 10 Year Battery

Introduction

Thank you for choosing BRK Brands, Inc. for your Smoke Alarm needs. You have purchased a state-of-the-art Smoke Alarm designed to provide early warning of a fire. Key features include Smart Technology to reduce nuisance alarms, a Single Button Test/Silence, Latching Alarm Indicator, Perfect Mount System for easy installation, a dust cover for construction, and side-load battery drawer for easy replacement (Model 9120B only).

© 2015 BRK Brands, Inc. All rights reserved. Distributed by BRK Brands, Inc. 3901 Liberty Street Road, Aurora, IL 60504-8122. Consumer Affairs: (800) 323-9005. www.brkelectronics.com • www.firstalert.com

All First Alert® and BRK® Smoke Alarms conform to regulatory requirements, including UL217, and are designed to detect particles of combustion. Ionization technology is generally more sensitive to small particles produced by flaming fires, while photoelectric technology is more sensitive to large particles from smoldering fires. For maximum protection, use both types of Smoke Alarms.

Fire Safety Tips

• Use smoking materials properly. Never smoke in bed.
• Keep matches or lighters away from children.
• Store flammable materials in proper containers.
• Keep electrical appliances in good condition and do not overload circuits.
• Keep stoves, barbecue grills, fireplaces, and chimneys clean and debris-free.
• Never leave cooking unattended.
• Keep portable heaters and open flames away from flammable materials.
• Do not let rubbish accumulate. Keep alarms clean and test them weekly. Replace alarms immediately if not working properly.
• Keep at least one working fire extinguisher on every floor, and an additional one in the kitchen.
• Have fire escape ladders or other reliable means of escape from an upper floor if stairs are blocked.

Before You Install This Smoke Alarm

Read "Recommended Locations for Smoke Alarms" and "Locations to Avoid for Smoke Alarms" before installation. This unit monitors air and alarms when smoke reaches its sensing chamber, providing early warning. It can only provide this warning if installed, maintained, and located where smoke can reach it and all residents can hear it. It does not sense gas, heat, or flame, nor can it prevent or extinguish fires.

Understand The Different Types of Smoke Alarms: Battery powered or electrical? Different alarms provide different protection.

Know Where To Install Your Smoke Alarms: Fire safety professionals recommend at least one alarm on every level, in every bedroom, and in every bedroom hallway. See location details below.

Know What Smoke Alarms Can and Can't Do: Alarms alert you to fire by sounding when smoke reaches the sensor. See "Limitations of Smoke Alarms" for details.

Check Your Local Building Codes: This alarm is for typical single-family homes. It alone will not meet requirements for boarding houses, apartment buildings, hotels, or motels. See "Special Compliance Considerations" for details.

ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD: Turn off power to the area where the Smoke Alarm is installed before removing it from the mounting bracket. Failure to do so may result in serious electrical shock, injury, or death.

• This unit will not alert hearing-impaired residents. Special units with strobe lights are recommended for them.
• Installation must conform to local electrical codes and NFPA 70 (NEC), NFPA 72, NFPA 101, ICC, SBC, UBC, NBC, OTFDC, and other applicable codes. Wiring and installation must be performed by a licensed electrician.
• This unit must be powered by a 24-hour, 120V AC pure sine wave 60 Hz circuit. Ensure the circuit cannot be turned off by a switch, dimmer, or GFCI.
• This Smoke Alarm requires AC or battery power to operate. Battery backup provides at least 4 minutes of alarm if AC fails. If AC fails and battery is weak, protection lasts up to 7 days. If AC fails and battery is dead or missing, the alarm cannot operate.
• Never disconnect power to stop an unwanted alarm; this disables the unit. Open a window or fan smoke away. The alarm will reset automatically. Never remove batteries from a battery-operated unit to stop an unwanted alarm; open a window or fan smoke away.
• Connect this unit ONLY to other compatible units. Do not connect to other alarm types or auxiliary devices.
• The battery compartment resists closing unless a battery is installed, warning that the unit will not operate on DC power without a battery.
• Do not paint over the unit, as paint may clog sensor openings.

How to Install This Smoke Alarm

This Smoke Alarm mounts on standard 4-inch (10 cm) ceiling or wall junction boxes. Read location recommendations before starting.

Tools needed: Needle-nose pliers or utility knife, standard flathead screwdriver.

Ensure the Alarm is not receiving excessively noisy power (e.g., from major appliances on the same circuit, generators, solar power, light dimmers, or mounted near fluorescent lighting), as this may cause damage.

The Parts of This Smoke Alarm

• Mounting Bracket: Attaches to the junction box, with slots for most boxes.
• Mounting Slots: For attaching the bracket.
• Locking Pins: Molded into the bracket, can be broken out for locking features.
• Hot (Black) AC Wire: Connects to household hot wire.
• Neutral (White) AC Wire: Connects to household neutral wire.
• Interconnect (Orange) Wire: Used for connecting multiple alarms.
• Latch to Open Battery Compartment: Allows access to the battery.
• Swing-Out Battery Compartment: Holds the backup battery.
• Quick-Connect Power Connector: Plugs into the alarm, supplying AC power.

Installation Steps

ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD: Turn off power at the circuit breaker or fuse box before installation. Failure to do so may result in serious electrical shock, injury, or death.

1. Wiring: Using wire nuts, connect the power connector to household wiring.
   • Stand-Alone Alarm Only: Connect white wire to neutral, black wire to hot. Tuck orange wire into junction box.
   • Interconnected Units Only: Connect white to neutral, black to hot, and orange to the interconnect wire from other units. Repeat for each unit. Never connect hot or neutral wires to the orange wire. Never cross hot and neutral wires between alarms.
2. Remove the mounting bracket from the alarm base and attach it to the junction box.
3. Plug the power connector into the back of the Smoke Alarm.
4. Position the alarm base over the mounting bracket and twist to secure. The alarm can be rotated for perfect alignment.
5. Restore Power: For stand-alone, restore power. For interconnected, repeat steps for all units, then restore power.
6. Check all connections.
7. For new construction, use the supplied dust cover to protect the alarm during construction. Remove it when complete.

Improper wiring can damage the Alarm and lead to malfunction.

Special Requirements for Interconnected Smoke Alarms

Interconnect units within a single family residence only. A maximum of 18 compatible units may be interconnected (12 Smoke Alarms max). All units must share the same fuse or circuit breaker. Total interconnect wire length must be under 1000 feet (300 meters). Wiring must conform to local codes and NFPA 70 (NEC).

ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD: Do not restore power until all Smoke Alarms are completely installed. Restoring power prematurely may result in serious electrical shock, injury, or death.

6. Ensure the Smoke Alarm is receiving AC power. The Green power indicator light should be ON continuously.
7. If the Green light is OFF, turn off power, recheck connections. If it still doesn't light, replace the unit.
8. Test each Smoke Alarm: Press and hold the Test/Silence button until the unit alarms. For interconnected units, all units should sound. Test each unit individually to ensure proper function. If any unit fails to alarm, turn off power, recheck connections, and replace if necessary.

Locking Features

These features discourage unauthorized removal of the battery or alarm. They are optional for single-family households.

To Lock the Battery Compartment: Activate battery, test alarm. Detach one locking pin from the mounting bracket. Push the pin through the black dot on the label on the back of the alarm. Re-lock if desired after battery replacement.

To Unlock the Battery Compartment: Turn off AC power. Remove alarm from bracket. Disconnect power connector. Score around the locking pin, pry it out. Save pin if relocking.

To Lock the Mounting Bracket: Detach one locking pin from the bracket. Insert it into the lock on the base. When attaching the alarm, the pin head fits into a notch on the bracket.

To Unlock the Mounting Bracket: Turn off AC power. Insert a flathead screwdriver between the bracket pin and bracket. Pry the alarm away by turning both screwdriver and alarm counterclockwise.

Understanding the Indicator Lights and Alarm Horn Patterns

Weekly Testing

NEVER use an open flame to test this unit. Use the built-in test switch. Do not stand close to the Alarm when the horn is sounding.

Test the unit weekly by pressing and holding the test button until the alarm sounds. If it does not alarm, check power and test again. If it still fails, replace immediately. For interconnected units, test each unit individually.

Regular Maintenance

• Test at least once a week.
• Clean the Smoke Alarm at least once a month using a soft brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner. Test after cleaning. Never use water, cleaners, or solvents.
• If the unit becomes contaminated and cannot be cleaned to avoid unwanted alarms, replace it immediately.
• Relocate the unit if it sounds frequent unwanted alarms.
• Replace the battery immediately when the unit "chirps" (low battery warning).

Choosing a replacement battery: Use one standard 9V battery (e.g., Duracell #MN1604, Eveready #522). Lithium batteries (e.g., Ultralife U9VL-J) offer longer life. Do not use rechargeable batteries. Clean battery contacts before installation. Install with correct polarity.

Dispose of or recycle used batteries properly. Do not dispose of batteries in fire. Keep batteries out of reach of children.

If This Smoke Alarm Sounds

NEVER ignore any alarm. Ignoring the alarm may result in injury or death.

During an alarm, you will hear a loud, repeating horn pattern: 3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps, pause.

• If the unit alarms and you are not testing it, respond immediately.
• Never disconnect AC power to quiet an unwanted alarm; this disables the unit. Open a window or fan smoke away. The alarm will reset automatically.
• Get everyone out of the house immediately.
• If the source of smoke is not a fire (e.g., cooking smoke), open a window or fan smoke away. Use the Silence Feature to silence the alarm temporarily.

What to Do in Case of Fire

• Stay calm. Follow your family escape plan.
• Get out quickly. Don't stop to dress or collect belongings.
• Feel doors with the back of your hand before opening. If cool, open slowly. Don't open hot doors. Keep doors and windows closed unless you must escape through them.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a cloth (preferably damp). Take short, shallow breaths.
• Meet at your planned meeting place outside. Do a head count.
• Call the Fire Department from outside immediately.
• Never go back inside a burning building.
• Contact your Fire Department for ideas on making your home safer.

Using the Silence Feature

The Silence Feature temporarily quiets an unwanted alarm for up to 10 minutes. It makes the unit less sensitive but does not disable it. If smoke is dense, the unit may stay in alarm or re-alarm. If you don't know the source, do not assume it's unwanted. If the unit will not silence or stays in silence mode, replace it.

To silence alarms in an interconnected series, press the Test/Silence button on the unit(s) that initiated the alarm. The initiating alarm's red LED will flash rapidly; others will be off. The unit will exit silence mode in approximately 10 minutes. Pressing the button again during silence mode tests the unit and resets the 10-minute timer.

"Latching Alarm" Indicator

This indicator is automatically activated after an alarm is exposed to alarm levels of smoke. After smoke levels drop, the green LED will flash (2 seconds on/2 seconds off). This helps identify which unit(s) were exposed to smoke. The indicator stays on until reset by pressing the Test/Silence button or by removing AC and DC power.

If You Suspect a Problem

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

• If you hear a "chirp" once a minute, replace the battery.
• For frequent non-emergency alarms (e.g., cooking smoke), try relocating the alarm.
• If the alarm sounds with no visible smoke, try cleaning or relocating it.
• If the alarm does not sound during testing, ensure it is receiving AC power.

ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD: Always discharge the branch circuit before servicing. Turn off AC power, remove battery, then press and hold test button for 5-10 seconds.

Do not try to fix the alarm yourself; this will void your warranty!

Recommended Locations for Smoke Alarms

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

• On every level of your home, including finished attics and basements.
• Inside every bedroom.
• In the hall near every sleeping area. If a hall is over 40 feet (12 meters) long, install a unit at each end.
• At the top of the first-to-second floor stairway, and at the bottom of the basement stairway.

Specific requirements vary by location; check with your local Fire Department. Interconnected AC or AC/DC units are recommended for added protection.

Agency Placement Recommendations (NFPA 72)

29.5.1* Required Detection:

• (1)* In all sleeping rooms and guest rooms.
• (2)* 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 © 2010 National Fire Protection Association.)

California State Fire Marshal (CSFM) Recommendations: Install detection equipment in all rooms and areas: 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/storage rooms, basements, and attached garages.

Locations to Avoid for Smoke Alarms

For best performance, AVOID installing Smoke Alarms in these areas:

• Where combustion particles are produced: Poorly ventilated kitchens, garages, furnace rooms. Keep units at least 20 feet (6 meters) from sources like stoves, furnaces, water heaters, space heaters. In smaller homes, place as far as possible from these sources. Ventilate these areas well.
• In air streams near kitchens: Air currents can draw cooking smoke into the sensing chamber.
• In very damp, humid, or steamy areas: Keep units at least 10 feet (3 meters) away from showers, saunas, dishwashers, etc.
• Where temperatures are regularly below 40°F (4.4°C) or above 100°F (37.8°C): Including unheated buildings, outdoor rooms, porches, or unfinished attics/basements.
• In very dusty, dirty, or greasy areas: Do not install directly over a stove or range. Clean laundry room units frequently.
• Near fresh air vents, ceiling fans, or in very drafty areas: Drafts can blow smoke away from the unit.
• In insect-infested areas: Insects can clog openings to the sensing chamber.
• Less than 12 inches (305 mm) away from fluorescent lights: Electrical "noise" can interfere with the sensor.
• In "dead air" spaces: These may prevent smoke from reaching the alarm.

Avoiding Dead Air Spaces

On ceilings, install alarms near the center or at least 4 inches (102 mm) from the wall/corner. For wall mounting, the top edge should be 4 to 12 inches (102 to 305 mm) from the wall/ceiling line. On peaked ceilings, install within 3 feet (0.9 meters) of the peak.

About Smoke Alarms

• Battery (DC) operated: Provide protection during power failure if batteries are fresh and installed. Easy to install, but lack interconnected functionality.
• AC powered: Can be interconnected. Do not operate if electricity fails.
• AC with battery (DC) back-up: Operates during power failure if batteries are fresh. Must be installed by a qualified electrician.
• Wireless Interconnected: Offer interconnected functionality without wires. Easy to install, battery-powered.
• For Solar or Wind Energy users: Use only with true or pure sine wave inverters. Avoid square wave or "quasi sine wave" inverters.
• For the hearing impaired: Special units with visual and audible alarms are available and can be interconnected.

Smoke alarms are not to be used with detector guards unless the combination has been evaluated and found suitable. All alarms are designed for early warning if located, installed, and cared for properly, and if smoke reaches them. Consult NFPA 72 and NFPA 101, and local building codes for specific requirements.

Special Compliance Considerations

This Smoke Alarm is suitable for apartments, condominiums, townhouses, hospitals, day care, health care facilities, boarding houses, group homes, and dormitories IF a primary fire detection system already exists for common areas. It is NOT a substitute for complete fire detection systems in places housing many people (apartment buildings, hotels, etc.) or in warehouses, industrial, or commercial buildings. Check local codes for use in new construction (often requires AC/DC only) or existing construction.

Limitations of Smoke Alarms

Smoke Alarms are not foolproof. They require proper location, installation, and maintenance. They may not wake all individuals, especially those with mobility limitations or who are deep sleepers. They require power (AC or battery); failure of either means no protection. They cannot detect fires if smoke does not reach the sensors (e.g., fires in walls, chimneys, or on the other side of closed doors). They may not be heard over loud noises or by the hearing impaired. They cannot prevent or extinguish fires. They have a limited life (replace after 10 years from purchase date).

Limited Warranty

BRK Brands, Inc. warrants this product to be free from defects in material and workmanship for ten years from the date of purchase. BRK will repair or replace defective products. This warranty is valid for the original retail purchaser and requires proof of purchase. It does not cover normal wear, misuse, improper voltage, disassembly, or unauthorized repair. BRK is not liable for incidental or consequential damages. Implied warranties are limited to the warranty period. Contact Consumer Affairs at 1-800-323-9005 for warranty service.

User Manual: First Alert CO615A Carbon Monoxide Plug-In Alarm with Battery Backup and Digital Display

Basic Safety Information

• Dangers, Warnings, and Cautions alert you to important instructions or hazardous situations.
• The CO Alarm is not designed to detect fire or any other gas; it only indicates the presence of carbon monoxide gas at the sensor.
• Do not stand too close to the unit when the alarm is sounding; exposure at close range may harm your hearing.
• Do not paint over the unit; paint may clog sensor openings.
• This unit must be powered by a 24-hour circuit that cannot be turned off by a switch, dimmer, or GFCI.
• This Alarm requires AC or battery power to operate. If AC power fails and the battery is dead or missing, the alarm cannot operate.
• Test the Alarm once a week. If it fails to test correctly, replace it immediately.
• This Carbon Monoxide Alarm is for residential use and not suitable for hazardous locations. It is not designed to measure CO levels for OSHA commercial/industrial standards.
• Individuals with medical conditions sensitive to CO should consult their physician and consider warning devices with audible and visual signals for CO concentrations under 30 ppm.

FCC Compliance: This equipment complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Installation

Where to Install This Alarm

NFPA recommends a CO Alarm centrally located outside each separate sleeping area, near bedrooms. For added protection, install additional alarms in each bedroom and on every level of your home.

Install CO Alarms:

• WHERE YOU CAN HEAR THE ALARM FROM ALL SLEEPING AREAS.
• In or near bedrooms and living areas, or wherever CO exposure is likely.
• On each level of a multi-level home.

Improper location can affect sensitive electronic components. See "Where This Alarm Should Not Be Installed".

Where This Alarm Should NOT Be Installed

To avoid damage, provide optimum protection, and prevent unnecessary alarms, do NOT locate this Alarm:

• In garages, kitchens, crawl spaces, and unfinished attics. Avoid extremely dusty, dirty, or greasy areas.
• In garages: Vehicle exhaust can contain CO, especially when the engine is first started.
• In kitchens: Some gas appliances emit a short burst of CO upon start-up. Keep units at least 5 feet (1.5 meters) from cooking or heating appliances if possible.
• Keep units at least 20 feet (6 meters) from sources of combustion particles (stove, furnace, water heater, space heater) if possible. In smaller homes, place as far as possible from these sources.
• In extremely humid areas: At least 10 feet (3 meters) from showers, saunas, dishwashers, laundry rooms, etc.
• In direct sunlight.
• In turbulent air, like near ceiling fans or open windows.
• In areas where temperatures are regularly below 40°F (4.4°C) or above 100°F (37.8°C).
• Less than 12 inches (305 mm) away from fluorescent lights.

Avoiding Dead Air Spaces

Stay at least 4 inches (102 mm) away from corners where walls or ceilings and walls meet.

Before You Begin Installation

Make sure the alarm is not receiving excessively noisy power (e.g., from major appliances on the same circuit, generators, solar power, light dimmers, or mounted near fluorescent lighting), as this may cause damage.

Find the self-adhesive labels. Write down your emergency responder (e.g., 911) and a qualified appliance technician's phone number. Place one label near the alarm and the other in the "fresh air" location you plan to go if the alarm sounds.

How to Install This CO Alarm

Tools needed: Screwdriver, drill.

1. Determine the best location.
2. Your Alarm can be mounted as a corded unit or a direct plug-in unit.

Activating the Battery Back-Up

Install two (2) AA batteries. The battery is for backup only. The alarm will briefly light up the display to indicate power. Press and hold the test button to ensure activation.

Direct Plug Alarm into an Outlet

1. Choose a standard UNSWITCHED 120V AC outlet.
2. Plug Alarm into outlet.
3. Press and hold test button to test alarm.

If Outlet is Mounted Horizontally (Sideways)

If using a horizontal outlet, rotate the adapter 90°: Release adapter sides, slide adapter out, rotate 90°, snap back into place. Plug in Alarm and test.

Wall Mounted Alarm

The power cord option provides flexibility. Mount at least 4 inches (102 mm) down from the ceiling to avoid "dead air" space. Do not cover the alarm with a curtain.

1. Remove the adapter and power cord.
2. Insert screws (use anchors if needed for drywall).
3. Hook the Alarm over the screws using the keyholes on the back.
4. Plug the power cord into the AC outlet.
5. Press and hold test button to test alarm.

Mounting Guide Template: 88.9 mm (3.5 inches)

Test the Alarm

1. Ensure the Alarm is receiving AC power (Green indicator light ON). If not, recheck connections or replace the unit.
2. Press and hold the test button until the alarm sounds, indicating the presence of carbon monoxide.

Have someone check that the alarm can be heard easily from sleeping areas.

How Your Alarm Works

The Cover Of Your Alarm:

• Test/Silence Button: Press and hold to activate test, or to silence the alarm.
• Display Button: Press to recall the highest CO level recorded.
• POWER Light (GREEN): Indicates AC power is present.
• Display: Shows CO levels, status, and messages.
• Alarm Horn: 85 dB audible alarm for test, alarm, and malfunction warnings.
• Battery Compartment: Holds backup batteries.

If Your CO Alarm Sounds

Actuation of your CO Alarm indicates the presence of carbon monoxide (CO) which can kill you. You must not ignore it!

1. Operate the Test/Silence button.
2. Call your emergency services (e.g., 911). Write down the number here: _______________________________________________________________
3. Immediately move to fresh air outdoors or by an open door/window. Do a head count. Do not re-enter until emergency services arrive, the premises are aired out, and your CO Alarm is normal.
4. If the alarm reactivates within 24 hours, repeat steps 1-3 and call a qualified appliance technician to investigate CO sources and inspect equipment. Note any uninspected combustion equipment and consult manufacturers. Ensure vehicles are not operating in an attached garage or adjacent to the residence. Write down technician number here: _______________________________________________________________

Using the Silence Feature

NEVER disconnect power to silence the horn; use the Silence Feature. Disconnecting removes protection!

• The Silence Feature temporarily silences the horn while you identify and correct the problem.
• Press the Test/Silence button until the horn is silent.
• If the button is pressed again while silenced, the alarm will sound again.

The CO Alarm will remain silent for up to 4 minutes. If CO levels remain dangerous, the horn will sound again. The Silence Feature does not correct a CO problem.

Silencing the Low Battery Warning

This feature can temporarily quiet the low battery "chirp" for up to 8 hours if AC power is present. Press the Test/Silence button until the Green LED flickers. The display will show "SILENCE" for 8 hours. Replace the battery as soon as possible.

Silencing the End of Life Signal

This feature can temporarily quiet the End of Life "chirp" for up to 2 days. Press the Test/Silence button. The horn will chirp to acknowledge activation. After 2 days, the "chirp" will resume.

Using the Peak CO Memory

This feature lets you check the highest recorded CO level.

• To check CO Memory: Press the Display button until the peak CO level is displayed.
• To clear CO Memory: It resets automatically after 24 hours. While checking memory, press or hold the Display button until "CLEAR" is displayed, then press again until cleared. Alternatively, remove all power (unplug and remove batteries).

DO NOT clear CO Memory if you plan to call for investigation! Clear only after the investigator has checked your home. If the investigator won't arrive within 24 hours, write down the peak level.

Weekly Testing

NEVER use an open flame or vehicle exhaust to test this unit. Use the built-in test switch. Do not stand close to the Alarm when the horn is sounding.

Test the unit weekly by pressing the Test/Silence button until the alarm sounds. If it does not test properly, check AC power and batteries, then test again. If it still fails, replace immediately. Do not try to fix the alarm yourself.

Understanding the Light, Horn, and Display Patterns

Regular Maintenance

• Test at least once a week.
• Clean the Alarm at least once a month using a soft brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner. Test after cleaning. Never use water, cleaners, or solvents.
• Relocate the unit if it sounds frequent unwanted alarms.
• Replace the battery immediately when the unit "chirps" (low battery warning).

Choosing a replacement battery: Use two standard AA batteries (e.g., Duracell MN1500). Do not use rechargeable batteries. Clean battery contacts before installation. Install with correct polarity.

Dispose of or recycle used batteries properly. Do not dispose of batteries in fire. Keep batteries out of reach of children.

What You Need to Know About CO

What is CO?

CO is an invisible, odorless, tasteless gas produced when fossil fuels (wood, coal, oil, natural gas, gasoline, propane) do not burn completely or are exposed to heat. Electrical appliances typically do not produce CO. Malfunctioning or improperly ventilated fuel-burning appliances can cause CO levels to rise quickly. Energy-efficient homes can trap CO inside.

Symptoms of CO Poisoning

Mild Exposure: Slight headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue ("flu-like" symptoms).

Medium Exposure: Throbbing headache, drowsiness, confusion, fast heart rate.

Extreme Exposure: Convulsions, unconsciousness, heart and lung failure.

Exposure to Carbon Monoxide can cause brain damage and death. Consult your doctor immediately if you experience even mild symptoms.

Finding the Source of CO After an Alarm

CO is odorless and invisible, making it hard to locate. Factors like ventilation before investigator arrival, "backdrafting," or transient CO problems can make detection difficult. BRK Brands, Inc. is not obligated to pay for CO investigations or service calls.

Potential Sources of CO in the Home

• Fuel-burning appliances: portable heaters, gas/wood fireplaces, gas ranges/cooktops, gas clothes dryers.
• Damaged or insufficient venting: corroded/disconnected vent pipes, leaking chimneys, cracked heat exchangers, blocked chimney openings.
• Improper use of appliances: operating grills or vehicles in enclosed areas (garages, screened porches).
• Transient CO Problems: Caused by outdoor conditions (wind, cold/humid air, negative pressure from exhaust fans, competing appliances) or extended operation of unvented devices.

How Can I Protect My Family From CO Poisoning?

A CO Alarm is an excellent means of protection. However, it is not a substitute for proper appliance maintenance.

• Clean chimneys and flues yearly. Keep them free of debris. Have professionals check for rust, corrosion, cracks, or separations. Never cap or cover a chimney in a way that blocks airflow.
• Test and maintain all fuel-burning equipment annually.
• Perform regular visual inspections of fuel-burning appliances. Check for excessive rust/scaling. Burner flames and pilot lights should be blue; yellow flames indicate incomplete combustion and potential CO. Keep furnace blower doors closed. Use vents or fans when available. Ensure appliances are vented to the outside. Do not grill indoors or in garages.
• Check for exhaust backflow from CO sources. Check furnace draft hoods and heat exchangers for cracks.
• Check the house or garage on the other side of a shared wall.
• Keep windows and doors open slightly if you suspect CO escaping into your home.

Familiarize yourself with all enclosed materials and understand what to do if your CO Alarm sounds.

Regulatory Information for CO Alarms

What Levels of CO Cause an Alarm?

UL2034 requires residential CO Alarms to sound at specific CO levels and exposure times:

• 400 ppm: Alarm between 4 and 15 minutes.
• 150 ppm: Alarm between 10 and 50 minutes.
• 70 ppm: Alarm between 60 and 240 minutes.

(Approximately 10% COHb exposure at 10%-95% RH). The unit is designed not to alarm at 30 ppm for 30 days.

CO Alarms are designed to alarm before immediate life threat. Never assume CO is not present if you cannot see or smell it.

Standards: Underwriters Laboratories Inc. Single and Multiple Station Carbon Monoxide Alarms UL2034.

This CO Alarm monitors air at the sensor and is designed to alarm before CO levels become life-threatening, allowing time to leave the house and correct the problem. This is only possible if alarms are located, installed, and maintained as described in this manual.

Gas Detection at Typical Temperature and Humidity Ranges: The CO Alarm is not formulated to detect CO levels below 30 ppm typically.

Audible Alarm: 85 dB minimum at 10 feet (3 meters).

General Limitations of CO Alarms

This CO Alarm is for residential use only, not industrial applications. It is not intended for hearing-impaired residents. CO Alarms may not awaken all individuals; assign assistance for those with mobility limitations or who are deep sleepers. The alarm will only sense CO that reaches the sensors; doors or obstructions can affect CO reaching the sensors. CO Alarms may not be heard over loud noises or by the hearing impaired. This CO Alarm is not a substitute for life insurance. It is not foolproof; components can fail, requiring weekly testing. It cannot prevent or extinguish fires.

Troubleshooting Guide

*For a list of acceptable replacement batteries, see "Regular Maintenance." If you have questions not answered by this manual, call Consumer Affairs: 1-800-323-9005.

Limited Warranty

BRK Brands, Inc. warrants this product to be free from defects in material and workmanship for seven years from the date of purchase. BRK will repair or replace defective products. This warranty is valid for the original retail purchaser and requires proof of purchase. It does not cover normal wear, misuse, improper voltage, disassembly, or unauthorized repair. BRK is not liable for incidental or consequential damages. Implied warranties are limited to the warranty period. Contact Consumer Affairs at 1-800-323-9005 for warranty service.

For your records, please record: Date Purchased: _______________________________ Where Purchased: ____________________________________________ Date Installed: ____________/____________Month/Year. Replace alarm 7 years after installation. Please write the date in the space provided: ______________/____________Month/Year. The alarm will also provide an audible End-of-Life Signal approximately 7 years after installation to remind you to replace the unit. The End-of-Life Signal can be silenced for up to 2 days. Do not unplug the alarm or remove the batteries until you get a replacement.

First Alert® is a registered trademark of the First Alert Trust. © 2014 BRK Brands, Inc.