SafeAir™ Carbon Monoxide Alarm
Installation Instructions
UL Listed
Description
The SafeAir™ carbon monoxide (CO) alarm monitors CO gas in residential dwellings, providing early warning of dangerous levels. It performs a self-test every 2 minutes. The SafeAir™ is a 4-wire device designed for use with a UL Listed fire or fire/burglary alarm control panel (Class 2 output).
Important: Use only with a UL Listed control panel capable of differentiating alarm signals (fire, burglary, CO) and providing distinct identification for each.
Selecting a Location for the Alarm
Proper location is critical for CO alarm operation. Install an alarm in every bedroom and on each level of a dwelling. At a minimum, place one alarm outside sleeping areas. Refer to Figure 1 for typical locations.
Installation Guidelines:
- Mount alarms on a ceiling or wall at least 5 feet from the floor.
- Mount alarms at least 5 feet from outside doors and windows.
- Mount at least 5 feet from open flame appliances (furnaces, stoves, fireplaces).
- Mount at least 5 feet from any cooking appliance.
- For sloped, gabled, or peaked ceilings, locate the alarm 3 feet from the highest point.
- In hallways 12 feet or longer, install two alarms.
- Locate in a suitable environment: Temperature between 40°F and 100°F; Humidity between 15% and 90% non-condensing.
- Locate away from air conditioners, heating registers, and other ventilation sources that may interfere with CO gas entry.
- Do not mount where furniture or draperies may obstruct airflow.
- Mount alarms on a firm, permanent surface.
Figure 1 Description: A diagram illustrating a house with several locations marked for CO alarm installation, typically in bedrooms, hallways, and near living areas.
Installing the Alarm
All wiring must conform to the National Electric Code (NEC) and local codes. Use 16 to 22 AWG wire.
Important: DO NOT connect the CO alarm on an initiating circuit with fire and/or security devices.
Installation Steps:
- Run the security system wiring to the alarm location.
- Remove the alarm cover by lifting it off.
- Use the base as a template to mark the two top screw hole locations on the mounting surface.
- Install two screws on the marks. Use wall anchors if necessary.
- Align the base with the screws. Pull wiring through the square hole and slide the base down the screws to the wall. For surface wiring, pull wires through the wiring channel at the top of the base.
- Strip 3/8 inch of insulation from each wire and insert under the appropriate screw terminal. Refer to Figure 2 for wiring details.
- Install two screws in the bottom two mounting holes. Tighten all four screws to secure the base.
- Replace the alarm cover.
- Apply power. The LED should flash green for approximately 15 seconds, then light steadily.
- Test the installation as described in "Testing the Alarm".
Important: J1 is factory set for manufacturing purposes. DO NOT change the setting.
Figure 2 Description: A wiring diagram showing connections from a UL Listed Class 2 control panel to the alarm unit. It details terminals for power (+12V, GND), relay contacts (NO, COM, NC), and internal components like the sensor, LED, and sounder, connected via terminals TB1, TB2, SW1, and J1.
Testing the Alarm
Test the alarm regularly to ensure proper function.
Test Procedures:
- CO Alarm Operation Test: Press and release the TEST/HUSH button until the LED turns red. The alarm should beep 4 times, pause for 5 seconds, beep 4 times, and then the LED should turn green, indicating proper installation and function.
- Relay Contacts and Panel Test: Press and release the TEST/HUSH button until the LED flashes amber. The LED should continue to flash amber, and the relay should trip. After 9 seconds, the relay resets, and the LED returns to green.
- If the alarm fails a test, wait a few minutes and repeat.
- If the alarm fails again, replace the unit.
Servicing the Alarm
For servicing, return the alarm to:
Sentrol
12345 SW Leveton Drive
Tualatin, OR 97062
Include a note describing the nature of the malfunction. Use proper packaging to prevent shipping damage.
Maintaining the Alarm
The SafeAir™ CO alarm requires minimal maintenance when installed and used properly. Test the alarm regularly as described above.
Clean the alarm as needed to remove dust and dirt using a clean, dry, or damp (water) cloth.
Important: DO NOT paint the alarm or expose it to cleaning solutions.
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Input voltage | 12VDC (supplied by a UL Listed control panel) |
| Current consumption (Normal) | 8mA |
| Current consumption (Alarm) | 60mA max |
| Relay contact | 50mA @ 12VDC |
| Electrical configuration | NO, NC |
| CO alarm level | 70 ppm / 60-189 minutes |
| Operating temperature | 40-100°F (4.4-37.8°C) |
| Relative humidity | 15-90% non-condensing |
| Dimensions (Width) | 2.7" (6.9 cm) |
| Dimensions (Length) | 6" (15.2 cm) |
| Dimensions (Depth) | 1.4" (3.6 cm) |
| Weight | 4oz (114 g) |
| Color | White |
| Listings | UL 2075 |
Limited Warranty
Sentrol warrants the alarm to be free from defects in materials and workmanship under normal intended use and service for a period of 5 years from the date of purchase.
Product Ordering
| Model Number | Description |
|---|---|
| 240-CO | SafeAir™ carbon monoxide (CO) alarm, Form C, 12VDC |
Understanding and Preventing CO Poisoning
Recognizing CO Poisoning
Symptoms related to CO poisoning should be discussed with household members:
- Mild Exposure: Slight headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue (flu-like symptoms).
- Medium Exposure: Severe throbbing headache, drowsiness, confusion, fast heart rate.
- Extreme Exposure: Unconsciousness, convulsions, cardio-respiratory failure, death.
Victims may become disoriented and unable to save themselves. Young children and pets may be affected first.
Sources of CO
CO results from the incomplete combustion of fuels (wood, gas, oil, charcoal, gasoline, kerosene). Dangerous CO levels can be produced by:
- Excessive spillage or reverse venting of fuel-burning appliances due to ambient conditions:
- Wind direction/velocity, high gusts, or heavy air in vent pipes.
- Negative pressure from exhaust fans.
- Simultaneous operation of multiple fuel-burning appliances.
- Loose vent pipe connections (dryers, furnaces, water heaters).
- Vent pipe obstructions or unconventional designs.
- Extended operation of unvented fuel-burning devices (ranges, ovens, fireplaces).
- Temperature inversions trapping exhaust gases near the ground.
- Idling vehicles in attached garages.
CO Precautions
No detector can protect in all situations. Take safeguards:
- Regularly inspect fuel-burning appliances for proper operation and ventilation.
- Clean chimneys, flues, and vents annually, checking for blockages, corrosion, rust, and cracks.
- Have heating equipment checked yearly by a qualified technician.
- Ensure exhaust/ventilation fans and fireplaces do not interfere with furnace air supply.
- Leave a window or door slightly open to ensure adequate oxygen for combustion.
When CO is Detected
The SafeAir™ alarms if harmful CO levels are present: LED turns red, sounder emits four rapid beeps every 5 seconds, and the relay triggers the control panel.
Press the TEST/HUSH button to silence the sounder. The alarm will resume if CO is still present.
In the Event of a CO Alarm
[WARNING] Alarm actuation indicates the presence of CO, which can be fatal.
If alarm signal sounds:
- Operate the TEST/HUSH button.
- Call your fire department or 911.
- Immediately move to fresh air (outdoors or by an open door/window). Conduct a head count. Do not reenter until emergency services arrive, the premises are aired out, and the alarm is functioning normally.
If the alarm reactivates within 24 hours, repeat steps 1-3 and call a qualified technician to examine or turn off fuel-burning appliances. Turn off vehicle engines if idling in an attached garage.
Important: Ensure adequate ventilation when using household cleaning solutions to prevent false alarms.
Important: The alarm automatically resets when CO dissipates.
Understanding the LED and Sounder
The SafeAir™ uses a multi-colored LED and sounder to indicate alarm status. The alarm resets automatically when CO is no longer detected.
| LED | Sounder | Status | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Green (Off) | Safe air | The alarm has power and is functioning properly. | |
| Red | Sounds 4 rapid beeps every 5 seconds. | Alarm | Dangerous level of CO is detected. The relay triggers if connected. Evacuate the premises. Press the TEST/HUSH button to silence the sounder. |
| Flashing amber (every 30-60 sec.) | Chirps following each LED flash | Trouble | There is a problem with the alarm. Investigate and replace if necessary. |
General Limitations of CO Alarms
CO alarms require power. Verify the green LED is always on. This unit is powered by a UL Listed fire/burglary alarm control panel; it may not operate during a power failure or if the control panel is disabled.
[WARNING] This device may not alarm at low CO levels. OSHA established that continuous exposure to 50 ppm over 8 hours should not be exceeded. This alarm has not been investigated for CO levels below 70 ppm.
Individuals with special medical conditions should consider devices with under 30 ppm alarming capabilities.
[CAUTION] This alarm indicates CO at the sensor. CO may be present elsewhere. Closed doors can delay or prevent alarm activation. Install a sensor in each bedroom and in hallways.
CO alarms are not smoke alarms. They detect CO from combustion sources, not smoke, fire, or other gases.
CO alarms may not be heard by sound sleepers or individuals under the influence of drugs or alcohol, especially if located outside a bedroom. Normal noise or closed doors can block sound. This unit is not designed for the hearing impaired.
CO alarms are not a substitute for life insurance. While they warn of increasing CO levels, they do not guarantee protection against CO poisoning. They are part of a comprehensive safety program. Homeowners and renters must ensure their own safety.
Replacement Information
This product is designed to work reliably for 5 years after installation. Contact your local distributor for replacement after 5 years.
Installation Date: _________________________
Distributor: _________________________
Contact Information
Sentrol
12345 SW Leveton Dr., Tualatin, OR 97062
Tel: 503.692.4052 | Fax: 503.691.7566
http://www.sentrol.com
U.S. & Canada: 800.547.2556
Technical Service: 800.648.7424
FaxBack: 1.800.483.2495
Sentrol reserves the right to change specifications without notice. ©1999 Sentrol E-3536-1198 15876 Rev A
