Kidde Smoke and Combination Smoke/CO Alarms User Guide

Models Included in this User Guide

This guide covers the following Kidde and Firex models:

Products are tested and certified to UL 217 (smoke models) or UL 217 and UL 2034 (combination smoke/CO models).

Thank You for Purchasing this Alarm

These models utilize standard 120V AC power, as well as either AA replaceable backup batteries or a 10-year sealed battery backup. They also contain HUSH™ to temporarily silence nuisance alarms and "self-testing" features. Certain models include a voice message system.

This alarm is a multi-criteria device. Smoke models detect smoke, and combination smoke/CO models detect both smoke and carbon monoxide from any source of combustion in a residential environment. It is not designed for use in a recreational vehicle (RV) or boat.

NOTE: Please read this user guide thoroughly and save it for future reference. Images are representative only; actual product may vary slightly.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the manufacturer recommend replacing this alarm after ten years.

Scan to register your device with Kidde for customer support and warranty information.

Product Support: 1-800-880-6788

Please write down the following information and have it ready when you call:

• Model: _________________
• Date Code (on back): _________________
• Date of Purchase: _________________
• Where Purchased: _________________
• Date to Replace: _________________

1. Smoke Alarm: What To Do When The Alarm Sounds

The smoke alarm pattern is three long beeps with voice "Fire!" (voice models only), a 1.5-second pause, and three long beeps repeating. The red LED blinks in time with the alarm pattern on the initiating alarm.

The smoke alarm takes precedence when both smoke and carbon monoxide are present (only combination smoke/CO models detect carbon monoxide).

• Alert small children and others who may have difficulty recognizing the alarm or leaving the area without help.
• Plan two ways out! Leave immediately via your escape plan. Do not waste time gathering valuables.
• When leaving, check doors for heat before opening. If hot or smoke is seeping through cracks, use an alternate exit. If cool, open slightly, ready to slam shut if heat/smoke rushes in.
• If the escape route requires going through smoke, stay close to the floor where the air is cleaner. Crawl if necessary and breathe shallowly through a damp cloth.
• Once outside, go to your meeting place and ensure everyone is there.
• Call the fire department or 911 from outside your home.
• Do not return until fire officials say it is safe.

NOTE: See Section RECOGNIZING NUISANCE ALARMS for nuisance alarm situations.

2. Other Alarm Visual And Audible Indicators

3. Troubleshooting Guide

For assistance, contact product support at 1-800-880-6788 before discharging the battery or disposing of your alarm. You may also write to Kidde, 1016 Corporate Park Drive, Mebane, NC 27302, or visit www.kidde.com.

4. Introduction, Product Features And Specifications

Introduction

This alarm detects products of combustion using a photoelectric sensor and carbon monoxide (on combination smoke/CO models only) using an electrochemical cell. Carbon Monoxide is referred to as "CO".

Ten years after installation, the unit will alert you that it is time to replace it ("End of Unit Life" mode). A label on the alarm helps identify the replacement date. For combination smoke/CO models, two labels provide information for CO alarm situations; place one at eye level near the alarm and another near a fresh air source.

Product Features and Specifications:

• Powered by 120VAC (60 Hz, 42 mA max) wire-in connector with either 2 AA backup batteries or 10-year sealed battery backup.
• Reduced nuisance alarms.
• Self-testing (see Operation and Testing section).
• Voice message system (voice models only).
• Easy installation.
• Hardwire Interconnectable to other compatible alarms.
• Smoke Alarm Hush™.
• Smoke Sensor: Photoelectric.
• CO Sensor: Electrochemical (combination smoke/CO models only).
• Temperature Operating Range: 40°F (4.4°C) to 100°F (37.8°C).
• Humidity Operating Range: up to 95% RH, non-condensing (smoke models); 10 to 95% RH, non-condensing (combination smoke/CO models).
• Audible Alarm: 85+ dB at 10', 3.0 to 3.5 KHz pulsing, with voice messages "Fire!" and/or "Warning! Carbon Monoxide" (voice only on voice models).

5. Limitations Of Smoke And Carbon Monoxide Alarms

WARNING: PLEASE READ CAREFULLY AND THOROUGHLY

Life safety from fire in residential occupancies relies on early notification and occupant escape actions.

Smoke alarms may not be effective in all situations, such as:

• Smoking in bed.
• Leaving children home alone.
• Cleaning with flammable liquids (e.g., gasoline).

Fire warning systems protect about half of occupants in fatal fires. They may be less effective in situations with rapidly growing fires, or where occupants are impaired and cannot escape even with early warning.

This model meets residential smoke alarm standards, including enhanced resistance to cooking nuisance alarms. Industry experts recommend both ionization and photoelectric smoke alarms for optimal detection of various fire types. Ionization sensors detect invisible particles (fast flaming fires) sooner, while photoelectric sensors detect visible particles (slow smoldering fires) sooner.

Battery-powered alarms require the specified battery type, in good condition and installed properly. Smoke alarms must be tested regularly.

Smoke alarms cannot sense fires if smoke does not reach them (e.g., fires in chimneys, walls, or behind closed doors). Alarms located on different floors may not wake a sound sleeper. Alcohol or drugs can impair hearing the alarm. Install an alarm in each sleeping area on every level.

This alarm is not intended to alert hearing-impaired individuals.

IMPORTANT: Combination smoke/CO alarms detect carbon monoxide from any combustion source; they are NOT designed to detect any other gas.

CAUTION: Combination smoke/CO alarms indicate CO at the sensor. CO may be present elsewhere. Never restart a CO problem source until it is fixed. NEVER IGNORE THE ALARM!

WARNING: COMBINATION SMOKE/CO ALARMS ARE FOR ORDINARY INDOOR LOCATIONS IN FAMILY LIVING UNITS. THEY ARE NOT DESIGNED TO MEASURE COMPLIANCE WITH OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION (OSHA) COMMERCIAL OR INDUSTRIAL STANDARDS. THEY ARE NOT SUITABLE FOR INSTALLATION IN HAZARDOUS LOCATIONS OR RECREATIONAL VEHICLES (RV) OR BOATS.

Installation of combination smoke/CO alarms should not substitute for proper installation, use, and maintenance of fuel-burning appliances and ventilation systems.

Combination smoke/CO alarms do not prevent CO from occurring or solve existing CO problems.

WARNING: COMBINATION SMOKE/CO ALARMS HELP PROTECT INDIVIDUALS FROM ACUTE CARBON MONOXIDE EXPOSURE BUT WILL NOT FULLY SAFEGUARD INDIVIDUALS WITH SPECIFIC MEDICAL CONDITIONS. CONSULT A MEDICAL PRACTITIONER IF IN DOUBT.

Combination smoke/CO alarms have not been investigated for CO detection below 70 PPM.

This device requires continuous electrical power from a battery or AC connection; it will not work without power.

6. Recommended Locations For Smoke And Carbon Monoxide Alarms

• Locate smoke alarms in all sleeping areas. Monitor exit paths from bedrooms. If multiple sleeping areas exist, locate additional alarms in each.
• Locate additional alarms in stairways, as they act like chimneys for smoke and heat.
• Locate at least one alarm on every floor level.
• Locate an alarm in every bedroom.
• Locate an alarm in every room with electrical appliances (e.g., portable heaters, humidifiers).
• Locate an alarm in every room where someone sleeps with the door closed, as the door may prevent an alarm outside the room from waking the sleeper.
• Smoke, heat, and combustion products rise and spread horizontally. Ceiling mounting in the center of the room is preferred for closest detection to all points.

For mobile home installation, select locations carefully to avoid thermal barriers. See MOBILE HOME INSTALLATION section for details.

When mounting on a wall, use an inside wall with the top edge of the alarm a maximum of 12" (30.5 cm) below the ceiling.

Diagram Description (Figure 6-A): Illustrates acceptable placement zones on ceilings and walls for smoke alarms. It shows distances from the ceiling (max 12 inches) and walls. It also depicts placement on tray-shaped ceilings, indicating areas on the sloped surfaces and the peak.

NFPA 72 states: "Smoke alarms in rooms with ceiling slopes greater than 1 ft in 8 ft horizontally shall be located on the high side of the room." NFPA 72 also states: "A row of detectors shall be spaced and located within 3 ft of the peak of the ceiling measured horizontally."

Diagram Description (Figure 6-B): Shows floor plans for a single-family home and a multi-level home. Symbols indicate recommended locations for smoke alarms for required detection (solid circle), additional detection (triangle), and locations to avoid within 6 ft (1.8m) of appliances (circle with a line through it).

Diagram Description (Figure 6-C): Depicts placement guidelines for sloped, peaked, or cathedral ceilings. It shows areas on the ceiling that are acceptable for alarm placement (within 3 ft of the peak) and areas that are not acceptable (more than 4 inches from the wall/eaves).

• Place smoke alarms at both ends of a bedroom hallway or large room if it is more than 30ft (9.1 m) long.
• Install Smoke Alarms on sloped, peaked, or cathedral ceilings at or within 3ft (0.9m) of the highest point (measured horizontally).
• Industry experts recommend a CO alarm on each level of the home, ideally on any level with fuel-burning appliances and outside of sleeping areas.

This equipment should be installed in accordance with NFPA 72.

Mobile Home Installation

In modern mobile homes, install smoke alarms as recommended above. In older, less insulated mobile homes, extreme temperatures can create a thermal barrier. In such units, install the smoke alarm on an inside wall, with the top edge a maximum of 12" (30.5 cm) below the ceiling.

If unsure about insulation or if outer walls/ceiling are hot or cold, install on an inside wall. NFPA 72 requires smoke alarms in each sleeping area.

WARNING: TEST YOUR ALARM OPERATION AFTER MOBILE HOME HAS BEEN IN STORAGE OR UNOCCUPIED, AND AT LEAST ONCE A WEEK DURING USE.

7. Locations To Avoid

(See Figures 6-A, 6-B, & 6-C for recommended locations)

• In the garage (products of combustion present when starting automobile).
• Near cooking appliances (normal cooking may cause nuisance alarms). If a kitchen alarm is desired, it should have an alarm silence feature and be at least 6 ft (1.8m) from cooking appliances.
• Within 6 ft (1.8m) of heating appliances.
• Less than 4" (10cm) from the peak of an "A" frame type ceiling.
• In areas where temperature may fall below 40°F (4.4°C) or rise above 100°F (37.8°C), such as garages and unfinished attics.
• In dusty areas (dust particles can cause nuisance alarms or failure to alarm).
• In very humid areas (above 95% RH, non-condensing) as moisture or steam can cause nuisance alarms.
• In insect-infested areas.
• Within 3 ft (0.9m) of bathroom doors, forced air supply ducts, ceiling/whole house ventilating fans, or other high air flow areas.
• Near lights (electronic "noise" may cause nuisance alarms).
• Near vents, flues, or chimneys.
• Near fans, doors, windows, or areas directly exposed to weather.
• Where the unit will be exposed to direct sunlight.

NOTE: Smoke alarms are not to be used with detector guards unless the combination (alarm and detector guard) has been evaluated and found suitable.

8. Alarm Installation

NOTE: A dust cover is installed on the alarm. Keep it on until construction is complete for at least 24 hours. Retain the dust cover and re-install it to protect the alarm during future construction. Construction dust and chemicals can cause contamination and false alarms.

WARNING: DUST COVER MUST BE REMOVED FOR ALARM TO OPERATE.

NOTE: Single station alarms are not connected to other alarms. They cannot send or receive alarm signals.

STEP 1: Wiring

Wiring Requirements

• AC alarms should be installed on a UL Listed or recognized junction box. Connections must be made by a qualified electrician according to articles 210 and 300.3(B) of the U.S. National Electrical Code ANSI/NFPA 70, NFPA 72, and local codes. Interconnect wiring must be in the same raceway or cable as AC power wiring. Interconnect wiring resistance must not exceed 10 ohms.
• Maximum wire run distance between the first and last unit in an interconnected system is 1000 feet.
• Power source: 120 Volt AC Single Phase from a non-switchable circuit.
• These alarms are not designed or certified for recessed mounting. Recessed mounting impedes smoke entry and may prevent timely alarming, endangering occupants. They are designed, tested, and certified for wall and ceiling surface mount only.

WARNING: AC ALARMS CANNOT BE OPERATED FROM SQUARE WAVE, MODIFIED SQUARE WAVE, OR MODIFIED SINE WAVE INVERTERS. THESE INVERTERS CAN PRODUCE HIGH PEAK VOLTAGES THAT WILL DAMAGE THE ALARM.

Wiring Instructions for AC Quick Connector Harness

CAUTION: Turn off the main power to the circuit before wiring the alarm.

• For single station alarms, DO NOT CONNECT THE RED WIRE. Leave its insulating cap in place.
• When hardwire interconnected, all units must be powered from a single circuit.
• A maximum of 24 Kidde Safety devices may be interconnected. The system should not exceed NFPA limits: 12 smoke or smoke/CO combination alarms, or 18 alarms total (including heat alarms). Up to 6 remote signaling devices and/or relay modules can be interconnected with 18 alarms.
• Diagram Description (Figure 8-A): Illustrates interconnection wiring for multiple alarms. It shows connections from a fuse/circuit breaker to the first alarm, then to additional alarms, with an optional relay module. Wires are color-coded (black for hot, white for neutral, red for interconnect).
• Improper connection can damage the alarm, cause failure, or create a shock hazard.
• Ensure alarms are wired to a continuous (non-switched) power line.

Diagram Description (Figure 8-B): Shows wiring practices that have proven effective in preventing nuisance alarms, illustrating receptacle and interconnected alarm wiring.

NOTE: Use standard UL Listed household wire. AC power should be turned off.

For best results to minimize nuisance alarms, interconnected alarms should be on a dedicated line. If not on a dedicated line, use a lighting load circuit without a dimmer. If receptacles must be on the same line, place them ahead of the smoke alarms to prevent voltage drops.

STEP 2: Activate Battery

AA replaceable battery models:

Pull out the battery pull tab to activate batteries. A beep confirms activation. If no beep occurs, remove and reinstall batteries.

10 yr sealed battery models:

Activate the alarm battery by either:

• Rotating the alarm fully onto the mounting bracket clockwise.
• Locating the red wheel on the back and turning it to the "ON" position with a screwdriver.

Diagram Description (Figure 8-C): Shows a hand pulling a battery tab labeled "PULL OUT TAB TO ACTIVATE BATTERIES."

Diagram Description (Figure 8-D): Shows a screwdriver turning a red wheel on the back of the alarm to the "ON" position.

NOTE: Attaching AC power before battery activation or correct battery installation can cause a false low battery chirp.

STEP 3: Install Mounting Bracket

After selecting the location and wiring, attach the mounting bracket to the electrical box using existing screws. Align the "A" line on the bracket with the hallway or wall for aesthetic alignment.

Diagram Description (Figure 8-E): Shows alignment marks on the mounting bracket, the AC Quick Connector harness being inserted into the unit, and the unit being attached to or removed from the bracket.

STEP 4: Attach AC Quick Connector

Plug the AC QUICK CONNECTOR into the back of the unit, ensuring it snaps into place. Push excess wire back into the electrical box.

9. Operation And Testing

AC Wired Interconnect Model Capability

AC models can be hardwire interconnected. When one unit alarms, all compatible interconnected units will also alarm. AC wiring must be completed properly, and the AC quick connector must be attached.

The following models can be interconnected using standard AC wiring:

Models providing both remote smoke and CO alarms: 20SA10, 20SA10-V, 20SAR, 20SAR-W, 3050-VAS10-A, 3050-VASC10-A, 30CUA10, 30CUA10-V, 30CUAR, 30CUAR-V, 30CUAR-W, 900-CUAR, 900-CUAR-V, i12010S, i12010SCO, KN-COB-IC, KN-COPE-I, KN-COSM-I, KN-COSM-IB, KN-COSM-IBA, KN-SMFM-I, P4010ACLEDS, P4010ACLEDS-2, P4010ACLEDSCO, P4010ACLEDSCO-2, P4010ACS, P4010ACSAQ-WF, P4010ACSCO, P4010ACSCOAQ-WF, P4010ACSCO-W, P4010ACSCO-WF, P4010ACS-W, P4010ACS-WF, P4010LACS-W, RF-SM-ACDC, RGCUAR-RW, RGSAR-RW, SMACFEX, SMAC10YFEX, CUAFEX, CUAFEX-V, CUAC10YFEX, CUAC10YFEX-V.

Models providing remote smoke alarms, but not remote CO alarms: HD135F, i12020, i12020A, i12040, i12040A, i12060, i12060A, i12080, i12080A, i4618A, i4618AC, P12040, PE120, Pi2000, Pi2010.

Models providing both remote smoke and CO alarms with a Strobe light and no audible notification: SL177i, SLED177i

SM120X relay module activates from interconnect smoke signal. CO120X relay module activates from interconnect CO signal.

WARNING: Failure to properly connect AC power and install batteries, or activate the 10-year battery, will prevent proper alarm operation and response to fire and/or CO hazards.

Operation

The alarm operates after activation and testing. When combustion products (smoke or CO) are sensed, the unit sounds a loud alarm with voice messages (voice models only).

CO ALARM SENSOR RESPONSE TIMES (Combination smoke/CO models only)

10. Recognizing Nuisance Alarms

Smoke Nuisance

This model meets standards for enhanced resistance to cooking nuisance alarms.

HUSH™: If you know the alarm is sounding but it's not a life-threatening situation, press the button on the initiating unit to silence the alarm for 8-10 minutes. If the smoke is not too dense, all interconnected units will silence. After the Hush™ period, the alarm resets and will sound again if smoke is still present. Hush™ can be used repeatedly.

NOTE: Dense smoke will override Hush™. If no fire is present, check "Locations to avoid." If a fire is discovered, evacuate and call 911.

Cigarette smoke typically does not cause an alarm unless blown directly into it. Cooking combustion particles can trigger the alarm if too close to an appliance. Range hood fans venting outside can help prevent nuisance alarms.

Carbon Monoxide (CO) Nuisance (combination smoke/CO models only)

RESET: Pushing the Test/Hush button during a CO alarm allows the unit to reset calculations and recheck for CO. If the unit re-alarms within 6 minutes, it is sensing high CO levels. Move to fresh air and call 911.

NOTE: Smoke-only models do not detect CO but will receive and transmit a CO alarm signal from interconnected units. Pushing the button on a smoke-only model transmitting a CO signal does nothing.

WARNING: THE RESET FEATURE CAN BE USED FOR CO ALARM EVENTS, BUT IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO DETERMINE THE SOURCE OF A CO ALARM BY SIGHT OR SMELL. ALWAYS CONSIDER A CO ALARM EVENT AS DANGEROUS.

11. Battery Information

AA Replaceable Battery Models:

These models use AC power and have two replaceable AA backup batteries. Under normal conditions, fresh batteries last at least one year. Constant exposure to high/low humidity or temperatures may reduce battery life.

WARNING: THE ALARM IS SEALED AND THE COVER IS NOT REMOVABLE. To access the battery compartment, the wiring harness must be removed by pressing down on the tab.

Diagram Description (Figure 11-A): Shows a hand pressing a tab labeled "Press Tab to Release Wire Harness."

LOW BATTERY

The alarm has a low battery monitor. If battery capacity is insufficient, a low battery condition will occur. Batteries must be replaced within 7 days of the first "Low Battery Warning" for continuous detection.

Replace batteries with approved brands: Energizer E91, Gold Peak 15A, or Golden Power GLR6A.

WARNING: Use only specified batteries. Do not mix old/new or alkaline/standard/rechargeable batteries. Do not use lithium batteries.

NOTE: Replace batteries at least once a year. Loss of AC power or a missing/improperly installed battery will render the unit inoperable.

10 yr Sealed Battery Models:

These models use AC power and a sealed lithium battery backup system. No battery installation or replacement is necessary for the life of the alarm. Constant exposure to high/low humidity or temperatures may reduce battery life.

WARNING: NO SERVICEABLE PARTS. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO OPEN OR REPAIR THE ALARM.

LOW BATTERY (for 10 yr sealed models, this refers to the backup battery failing, not the main power)

If the battery capacity is nearing the point where it cannot provide adequate power, the low battery condition will occur. The unit must be replaced within 7 days of the "Low Battery Warning."

CAUTION: THE BATTERY USED IN THIS DEVICE MAY PRESENT A FIRE OR CHEMICAL BURN HAZARD IF MISTREATED. DO NOT RECHARGE, DISASSEMBLE, HEAT ABOVE 100°C (212°F) OR DISPOSE OF IN FIRE.

WARNING: Failure to properly connect AC power and batteries, or activate the 10-year battery backup, will prevent proper operation and response to fire and/or CO hazards.

Diagram Description (Figure 11-B): Shows two AA batteries correctly oriented with positive (+) terminals.

12. Permanently Disable Alarm / Discharge Battery (10 yr sealed battery models only)

WARNING: FAILURE TO DISCHARGE ALARM BATTERY AS INSTRUCTED PRIOR TO DISPOSAL MAY CREATE POTENTIAL FOR LITHIUM BATTERY RELATED FIRE OR HAZARD.

WARNING: DISCHARGING THE ALARM BATTERY IS PERMANENT.

• Once discharged, the alarm battery cannot be reactivated.
• Once discharged, the alarm will NO LONGER DETECT SMOKE OR CO.
• Once discharged, the battery is depleted, and the alarm will no longer function.
• Once discharged, the alarm cannot be mounted onto the mounting bracket or reactivated.

To Permanently Disable Alarm / Discharge Battery:

• Rotate the alarm counterclockwise to remove it from the mounting bracket.
• Disconnect AC wiring harness.
• Remove the SIDE OF TAB from the base.
• Use a screwdriver to turn the red slotted arrow to the "PERMANENTLY DISABLE and DISCHARGE ALARM" location until it clicks/locks. This disables the alarm, stops chirps, and drains the battery for safe disposal.

Diagram Description (Figures 12-A and 12-B): Show the location of the "SIDE OF TAB" and the red arrow for disabling the alarm, indicating the "ON" position and the "PERMANENTLY DISABLE and DISCHARGE ALARM" position.

13. Carbon Monoxide Alarm: What To Do When The Alarm Sounds

NOTE: Smoke-only models do not detect carbon monoxide (CO) but will receive and transmit a CO alarm signal from an interconnected CO or combination smoke/CO alarm.

The carbon monoxide (CO) alarm pattern is four quick beeps with voice "Warning! Carbon Monoxide" (voice models only) repeating every 5 seconds. The red LED blinks with the alarm pattern on the initiating alarm. On DC power only, after 4 minutes in CO alarm, the pattern occurs every 60s.

WARNING: CARBON MONOXIDE (CO) IS A COLORLESS, ODORLESS, POISONOUS GAS. YOU CAN'T TASTE, SEE, OR SMELL CO, BUT IT CAN KILL IN JUST MINUTES. THIS ALARM WILL SOUND IN A 4-BEEP PATTERN IF LIFE THREATENING LEVELS OF CO ARE DETECTED. IF THE ALARM SOUNDS:

1. Immediately evacuate all occupants to fresh air.
2. Call emergency responders (911 or fire department) for help; notify the building or vehicle owner as necessary.

EMERGENCY PHONE #: _______________________

Always consider a CO alarm dangerous. After emergency responders have arrived and the premises has been aired out, it is important to call a qualified appliance technician to investigate sources of CO from fuel-burning equipment and appliances and inspect the alarm's operation. Note any combustion equipment not inspected and consult manufacturer instructions or contact the manufacturer for more information on CO safety. Ensure motor vehicles are not operating in an attached garage or adjacent to the residence.

NOTE: See Section RECOGNIZING NUISANCE ALARMS, for nuisance alarm situations.

14. General Carbon Monoxide (CO) Information

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless poison gas that can be fatal when inhaled. CO inhibits the blood's capacity to carry oxygen.

Possible Sources of CO

Inside your home, appliances used for heating and cooking are the most likely sources of CO. Vehicles and other combustion engines in an attached garage, and charcoal/gas grills or hibachis in enclosed areas are also sources. Generators in enclosed areas create CO. CO is produced when burning any fossil fuel (gasoline, diesel, propane, natural gas, oil, wood) by any fuel-burning appliance that is malfunctioning, improperly installed, or not ventilated correctly, such as: Furnaces/boilers, gas ranges/stoves, gas clothes dryers, water heaters, portable fuel burning space heaters, fireplaces, wood-burning stoves, and certain swimming pool heaters. Blocked chimneys or flues, back drafting, changes in air pressure, corroded or disconnected vent pipes, or a loose/cracked furnace heat exchanger can also release CO.

Conditions Resulting in Transient CO Situations:

Excessive spillage or reverse venting of fuel-burning appliances due to outdoor ambient conditions (wind direction/velocity, high gusts, heavy air in vent pipes), negative pressure differential from exhaust fans, simultaneous operation of multiple fuel-burning appliances competing for air, loose vent pipe connections, obstructions or unconventional vent pipe designs, extended operation of unvented fuel-burning devices, temperature inversions trapping exhaust gases, or car idling in an attached garage.

CO Safety Tips

Annually, have the heating system, vents, chimney, and flue inspected and cleaned by a qualified technician. Install appliances per manufacturer instructions and local building codes. Most appliances should be installed by professionals and inspected afterward. Regularly examine vents and chimneys for improper connections, rust, or stains, and check furnace heat exchangers for cracks. Verify pilot lights and burners have a blue flame; an amber or orange flame indicates incomplete combustion and potential CO release.

Teach household members the alarm sounds and response procedures. Fire Departments, utility companies, and HVAC contractors can perform CO inspections (some may charge fees). Kidde is not liable for repair or dispatch calls related to alarm sounding.

Symptoms of CO Poisoning

Initial symptoms are flu-like (no fever), including dizziness, severe headaches, nausea, vomiting, and disorientation. Unborn babies, pregnant women, senior citizens, and those with heart/respiratory problems are especially vulnerable. Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms occur. CO poisoning can be diagnosed by a carboxyhemoglobin test.

The following symptoms are related to CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING and should be discussed with ALL household members:

1. MILD EXPOSURE: Slight headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue (flu-like symptoms).
2. MEDIUM EXPOSURE: Severe throbbing headache, drowsiness, confusion, fast heart rate.
3. EXTREME EXPOSURE: Unconsciousness, convulsions, cardio respiratory failure, and death.

These levels relate to healthy adults; levels differ for high-risk individuals. High CO exposure can be fatal or cause permanent damage. Victims may be disoriented and unable to save themselves. Young children and pets may be affected first. Familiarization with these effects is important.

15. Cleaning Your Alarm

Your Alarm Should be Cleaned at Least Once a Year

Clean the interior (sensing chamber) using compressed air or a vacuum cleaner hose through the perimeter openings. Wipe the outside with a clean, dry cloth. Do not use water, detergents, or cleaners, as they may damage the alarm.

NOTE: Do not insert fingers or cleaning items under the shield during cleaning.

Diagram Description (Figure 15): Shows three images demonstrating how to clean the alarm: using compressed air or a vacuum hose, and showing what not to do (inserting fingers or using a hair dryer).

If the alarm is in Fault mode, it may need cleaning. After cleaning, press the Test button. If the fault does not clear, the alarm needs replacement.

• Never use detergent or other solvents.
• Avoid spraying air freshener, hair spray, or other aerosols near the alarm.
• Do not use a hair dryer; it may damage the alarm and impact performance.
• Do not paint the unit; paint seals vents and interferes with sensor function.
• Never attempt to disassemble the unit; this voids the warranty.

For combination smoke/CO models: The following substances can affect the CO sensor and cause false readings or damage: Methane, propane, isobutane, iso-propanol, ethyl acetate, hydrogen sulfide, sulfide dioxides, alcohol-based products, paints, thinner, solvents, adhesives, hair spray, aftershave, perfume, and some cleaning agents.

16. Good Safety Habits

Develop and Practice a Plan of Escape

Prepare and practice a home escape plan twice a year, including night drills. Know two ways out of every room (door & window) and identify an outdoor meeting place. When two people reach the meeting place, one should call 911 while the other accounts for family members. Establish a rule: once out, never re-enter.

• Create a floor plan showing all doors, windows, and at least two escape routes per room. Upper floors may require a rope or chain ladder.
• Hold a family meeting to discuss the escape plan, including actions during a fire and meeting points.
• Ensure children hear and wake to the alarm to execute the plan. Practice helps test the plan. You may not be able to reach children; ensure they know what to do.
• Familiarize everyone with alarm sounds and train them to leave the home.
• Studies show alarms may not awaken all sleepers. It is the responsibility of capable household members to assist those who may not awaken or evacuate unassisted.
• Install and maintain fire extinguishers on every level, in the kitchen, basement, and garage. Know how to use them.

If moving the alarm for projects like painting, reinstall it as soon as possible to ensure continuous detection.

Fire Prevention

Never smoke in bed or leave cooking unattended. Teach children not to play with matches or lighters. Train everyone to recognize the alarm pattern and use their escape plan. Know "Stop, Drop and Roll" and how to crawl low under smoke. Install and maintain fire extinguishers.

NFPA (National Fire Protection Association)

Fire Safety in the Home: NFPA 72 provides reasonable safety for family living units through minimizing fire hazards, providing fire-warning equipment, and practicing an escape plan.

Smoke Detection – Are More Alarms Desirable?

Required smoke alarms may not provide early warning for areas separated by doors. Consider additional alarms for areas like basements, bedrooms, dining rooms, furnace rooms, utility rooms, and hallways not covered by required alarms. Installation in attics, garages, or within 6 ft (1.8m) of heating/cooking appliances is not normally recommended due to potential operational issues.

NFPA 72 Installation Requirements:

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.
3. On every level of a dwelling unit, including basements.
4. On every level of a residential board and care occupancy (small facility), including basements and excluding crawl spaces and unfinished attics.
5. In the living area(s) of a guest suite.
6. In the living area(s) of a residential board and care occupancy (small facility).

17. Service And Warranty

Ten-Year Limited Warranty

Kidde warrants the enclosed alarm (excluding AA batteries for AA models) against defects in material, workmanship, or design for ten years from the purchase date under normal use. Kidde will repair or replace defective parts free of charge upon receipt of the alarm with proof of purchase. Before shipping, remove batteries or follow the "Permanently Disable Alarm / Discharge Battery" steps.

This warranty does not apply if the alarm is damaged, modified, abused, or fails due to improper maintenance or inadequate power. Implied warranties are limited to the warranty period. Kidde is not liable for loss of use, indirect, special, incidental, or consequential damages.

The warranty may only be altered in writing signed by both parties. Your Kidde Alarm is not a substitute for insurance. Consult your insurance agent. Opening the unit voids the warranty. Refer to www.kidde.com for the latest warranty statement.

California State Fire Marshal

Early warning fire detection is best achieved by installing detectors in all rooms and areas: a smoke alarm in each separate sleeping area, and heat or smoke detectors in living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, hallways, attics, furnace rooms, closets, utility/storage rooms, basements, and attached garages.

FCC Compliance

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) no harmful interference, and (2) acceptance of any received interference.

WARNING! Unauthorized changes or modifications could void the user's authority to operate this device.

NOTE: This equipment complies with FCC limits for Class B digital devices, providing reasonable protection against harmful interference in residential installations. It generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy. If not installed/used per instructions, it may cause interference. No guarantee of no interference in a particular installation.

If interference occurs, try these measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase separation between equipment and receiver.
• Connect equipment to a different circuit.
• Consult a dealer or experienced radio/TV technician.

QUESTIONS OR FOR MORE INFORMATION

Call Kidde Product Support at 1-800-880-6788 or contact us at www.kidde.com.

Kidde, 1016 Corporate Park Drive, Mebane, NC 27302

©2024 Kidde. All Rights Reserved.