Defender Carbon Monoxide Alarm Owner's Manual

1. Important Message and Instructions

⚠️ CAUTION! This alarm indicates the presence of carbon monoxide (CO) gas at the sensor. CO gas may be present in other areas. This alarm is designed to detect CO gas from any source of combustion and is not designed to detect smoke, fire, or any other gas. It helps protect individuals from acute CO exposure but will not fully safeguard those with specific medical conditions. Consult a medical practitioner if in doubt.

⚠️ CAUTION! CO detection is best achieved by installing CO alarms in all rooms and areas of the dwelling.

❗ IMPORTANT! The alarm should be replaced after ten years from the installation date. Write the replacement date onto the “REPLACE BY” label.

❗ IMPORTANT! Do not attempt to repair this CO alarm yourself. Refer to Section 13 for service.

Add the telephone numbers of your local emergency service provider and a qualified technician to the provided self-adhesive labels. Place one label next to the alarm and the other near a designated safe gathering area.

After installation, TEST the alarm by pressing the TEST/RESET/MUTE button for at least 2 seconds. Refer to Section 9 for detailed testing instructions.

DO NOT TRY TO TEST THIS ALARM IN ANY OTHER WAY. If no alarm sounds, or if the sound is low or erratic during a test, the unit may be defective and should be returned for service (See Section 13).

CLEANING THE ALARM: Use a vacuum cleaner brush to clean around the alarm openings. Wipe the exterior with a cloth slightly dampened with water. After cleaning, confirm the POWER green LED flashes once every 60 seconds (see Section 8) and test the alarm using the TEST/RESET/MUTE button.

DO NOT PAINT THE ALARM: Paint can block vents and affect alarm function.

DO NOT SPRAY AIR REFRESHENER, CLEANING SUPPLIES, OR INSECT KILLER ON OR NEAR THE ALARM: Aerosol chemicals can damage the sensor and cause improper operation. Ensure the dwelling is well-ventilated when using cleaning supplies.

2. Warning Messages

⚠️ WARNING! This product is intended for use in ordinary indoor locations of family living units. It is not designed for compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) or commercial/industrial standards. Individuals with medical problems may consider devices with audible and visual signals for CO concentrations under 30 ppm.

⚠️ WARNING! Actuation of this device indicates the presence of carbon monoxide (CO) which can KILL YOU.

⚠️ WARNING! Test the CO alarm at least once a week.

⚠️ WARNING! Test CO alarm immediately after the dwelling has been vacant.

⚠️ WARNING! The loudness of the alarm sound may cause discomfort. You may cover the horn opening with your palm to reduce volume while testing.

⚠️ WARNING! Constant exposure to high or low temperatures, or high humidity, may shorten battery life.

3. Features and Specifications

• Factory Sealed Lithium Batteries with Soldered Connections
• Integrated Battery Activation/Deactivation Switch
• Accurate and Reliable Water-Based Electrochemical Sensor
• Integrated Filter for Removing Nuisance Gases
• Samples for Carbon Monoxide (CO) Every 10 Seconds
• Optional Alpha-Numeric LCD Readout with Memory (Model CA6150)
• Separate Test and Optional Display Buttons
• Audible and Visual Alarm Signals
• Separate Alarm, Power, and Service LEDs
• Self Diagnostic Circuitry and Sensor Life Monitor
• Secure-Lock™ Mounting System
• UL Tested and Listed to Latest ANSI/UL 2034 Standard
• Ten Year Limited Warranty for Alarm and Batteries

Alarm Components Illustration: The alarm unit features an 85dB Horn, a Mounting Screw for attachment, and various indicators. The CA6150 model includes a Large Alpha-Numeric LCD. The Secure-Lock Mounting Plate is used for installation. Indicator LEDs include an Alarm LED (red), a Power LED (green), and a Service LED (red). Control buttons include a Display CO Level Button and a Test/Reset/Mute Button.

Specifications

CO Response Times:

• 70 PPM: 60-240 minutes
• 150 PPM: 10-50 minutes
• 400 PPM: 4-15 minutes

Sensor Type: Electrochemical

Operating Temperature and Humidity: 40°F to 100°F @ 10% to 95% RH

Audible Signal: Buzzer Horn Sounds 85 dB at 10 feet

Visual Signal:

• POWER Green LED: Indicates Power On
• ALARM Red LED: Indicates CO Alarm
• SERVICE Red LED: Indicates Service Required

Detection Frequency: Samples for CO every 10 seconds

LCD Display (Model CA6150):

• Automatic Digital Read-Out: Continuously displays current CO level detected from 30-999 ppm.
• Current Low-Level Readout: Manually displays the current CO level detected within the last minute (10-999 ppm).
• Peak Level Memory: Manually displays the highest CO level detected within the last 30 days (10-999 ppm).
• Peak Level Time Record: Manually displays the total time the highest CO level was detected, within 10% of the peak (1-999 minutes).
• Display Tolerance: ±20% from 30 to 400 PPM @ 50% RH, 72°F ±5°.

Sensor Life Monitor: Activates sensor expiration signal after ten years of operation.

Factory Sealed Lithium Batteries: Two non-removable, non-replaceable lithium batteries provide ten years of operation under normal conditions.

Electrical Rating: 6VDC

4. Information About Carbon Monoxide

What is Carbon Monoxide?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a highly toxic, invisible, odorless, and tasteless gas.

How is CO Generated?

CO is generated through incomplete combustion of fuel in appliances. Faulty ventilation in furnaces, water heaters, fireplaces, wood-burning stoves, and space heaters are major causes of high CO levels. Automobile and small engine exhaust are also sources.

How Does CO Poison People?

The human body needs oxygen for energy. Oxygen in the lungs binds with hemoglobin in the blood, carrying it throughout the body. CO binds more tightly to hemoglobin than oxygen does, forming carboxyhemoglobin (COHb). This reduces the blood's ability to carry oxygen. As COHb concentration rises, symptoms like nausea, unconsciousness, and death can occur.

What are the Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?

Symptoms can be confused with the flu. Different CO concentrations and exposure times cause different symptoms. Discuss these with household members:

• Mild Exposure: Slight headaches, nausea, vomiting, runny nose, sore eyes, fatigue (flu-like symptoms).
• Medium Exposure: Severe throbbing headache, dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, fast heart rate.
• Extreme Exposure: Unconsciousness, convulsions, cardiorespiratory failure, brain damage, death.

Many CO poisoning victims are unaware they are unwell and become disoriented, unable to seek help. Young children and pets are often affected first.

CO Gas Exposure Effects: A chart illustrates the effects of 400 PPM CO gas exposure over time. At 400 PPM, exposure can lead to permanent brain damage and death within 15-26 minutes, with symptoms like headache appearing earlier (around 20-30 minutes at 400 PPM, corresponding to ~20-25% COHb).

5. Recommended Location of Alarms

The Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) recommends at least one CO alarm per household located outside each sleeping area. CO poisoning can occur anywhere, but is most dangerous during sleep. Place alarms near sleeping areas. If there are multiple sleeping areas or floors, or if bedroom doors are closed at night, more than one alarm may be needed.

Carbon monoxide is slightly lighter than air at room temperature. CO alarms should be mounted five feet off the floor, or at eye level, for optimal operation and display viewing.

1. Locate the first alarm near bedrooms. Add alarms near or in each sleeping area if multiple exist.
2. Locate an alarm in every room where someone sleeps with a closed door, as the door may prevent the alarm from waking the sleeper.
3. Locate an alarm on every level of the dwelling.

Diagrams A & B: These floor plan diagrams illustrate recommended CO alarm placement in a dwelling for minimum and added protection, showing placement in bedrooms, living rooms, and other areas.

6. Locations to Avoid

Do not install the alarm:

• Near the Cooking Area: Within five feet of cooking appliances to prevent nuisance alarms from CO generated during cooking and grease buildup.
• Within Five Feet of a Furnace, Water Heater, or Space Heater: These devices can emit small amounts of CO when first turned on.
• In Garages: Automobile exhaust contains CO.
• In Dusty Areas: Dust can impede proper operation.
• In Cleaning Supply Rooms: Cleaning chemicals and painting supplies may cause nuisance alarms.
• In Utility or Bath Rooms: Within three feet of a bathtub, shower, spa, or washer/dryer due to excessive moisture.
• In Very Hot or Cold Areas: On exterior walls or in areas below 40°F or above 100°F.
• In Dead Air Space: Within one foot of where the wall meets the ceiling or floor.
• In Hazardous Locations: As defined by the National Electrical Code.
• Near Wireless Devices: Within one foot of wireless devices, as radio frequencies may interfere with operation.

7. Installation Instructions

1. Review Section 5, Recommended Locations of Alarms.
2. Review Section 6, Locations to Avoid.
3. Fasten the mounting plate to the wall at eye level. Slide the alarm down onto the mounting plate; it will activate automatically.
4. Use the provided mounting plate. If not used, slide the activation switch at the back of the alarm to the left until it meets the Stop, ON position (see Diagram D).
5. Once activated, the CO alarm should operate for ten years without battery replacement.
6. Press and hold the test button for at least 2 seconds until the alarm beeps and the ALARM red LED flashes. The alarm should beep 4 times, pause, then beep 4 times again with the ALARM red LED flashing.
7. Secure the alarm to the mounting plate using the provided Phillips head screw through the mounting hole on top.
8. Ensure the alarm is not obstructed by bedding, furniture, or drapes.

Alarm Activation Illustration: Diagrams C and D show the alarm's back panel. Diagram C illustrates the initial position where the mounting hole is closed, indicating the alarm is not yet activated. Diagram D shows the 'ON' position, where the mounting hole is open, signifying activation. The switch can also be moved to 'DEACTIVATE'. The CA6100 and CA6150 models have sealed lithium batteries that cannot be removed and are designed to power the alarm for ten years.

8. Functions and Operation

Operation: The CO alarm becomes operational when the activation switch is slid to the ON position. The POWER green LED flashes once every 60 seconds. The CA6150 LCD continuously displays a [CO level display] symbol to indicate power is active.

Low Battery Condition: When battery voltage drops, the alarm chirps once per minute, and the POWER green LED blinks for 5 seconds every minute. The CA6150 LCD displays a [low battery symbol]. The alarm continues to sample for CO and displays detected levels of 30 ppm or more until battery power is critically low. See Section 13 for service information.

Service Condition: An internal microcontroller monitors the sensor and components. If a failure occurs, the alarm chirps twice (BEEP - BEEP) per minute, and the SERVICE red LED blinks for 5 seconds every minute. The CA6150 LCD displays 'Err' [Error indicator]. This indicates a malfunction requiring service. See Section 13.

Sensor End-of-Life Condition: The sensor has a ten-year life expectancy. After ten years, the "End-of-Life" signal activates: the alarm chirps once per minute, the SERVICE red LED glows for 3 seconds, and the CA6150 LCD displays 'End' [End-of-life indicator]. The alarm must be replaced. See Section 13.

Alarm Condition: When CO gas is detected at specified levels and durations (Section 3), the horn sounds 4 short beeps every 6 seconds, and the ALARM red LED flashes in sync. The CA6150 LCD displays the current CO level. After 5 minutes, the signal changes to 4 short beeps every 60 seconds. The alarm can be reset manually or automatically.

Test/Reset/Mute Button: Used to test alarm operation and temporarily mute the horn. Muting duration varies: 5 minutes for an alarm signal, 24 hours for a "Low Battery Voltage" signal (within the first week), or 60 hours for an "End-of-Life" signal (within the first month). The CA6150 LCD shows the CO level during testing or 'OFF' when muted. See Section 9.

LCD Display Function (Model CA6150): Normally displays a [CO level display] symbol. If room temperature exceeds 120°F, it displays a [temperature indicator] for 5 seconds per minute. If CO level is 30 ppm or more, or an alarm is activated, it displays the current CO level. It displays a [low voltage indicator] symbol for low battery.

9. Test and Mute the Alarm

Testing the Alarm: Press and hold the TEST/RESET/MUTE button for at least 2 seconds or until the alarm beeps and the ALARM red LED flashes. This simulates approximately 300 ppm CO gas. The alarm will sound 4 short beeps, pause for 5 seconds, then repeat 4 more beeps with flashing ALARM red LED if all functions are correct. The CA6150 will display the detected CO level (10-999 ppm).

Muting During Alarm: Press the TEST/RESET/MUTE button. The ALARM red LED flashes 4 times, the CA6150 displays 'OFF' for 5 seconds, and the horn silences temporarily. If CO levels remain at 70 ppm or more, the alarm reactivates within 5 minutes. See Section 10.

Muting Low Battery Signal: Press the TEST/RESET/MUTE button. The POWER green LED blinks for 5 seconds, the CA6150 displays 'OFF' simultaneously, and the horn silences for 24 hours. The low battery symbol remains on the CA6150 display. You can re-mute for another 24 hours by pressing the button again. Muting is only available during the first 7 days of the low battery signal. After 7 days, the alarm reverts to its normal low battery signal (1 chirp/min, POWER LED blinks). To test during a low battery signal, press and hold the TEST/RESET/MUTE button for 2 seconds when the audible signal is not sounding.

Muting "End-of-Life" Signal: Press the TEST/RESET/MUTE button. The SERVICE red LED glows for 5 seconds, the CA6150 displays 'OFF' simultaneously, and the horn silences for 60 hours. Muting is available during the first 30 days of the "End-of-Life" signal. After 30 days, the alarm reverts to its normal "End-of-Life" condition (1 chirp/min, SERVICE red LED glows). To test during an "End-of-Life" condition, press and hold the TEST/RESET/MUTE button for 2 seconds when the audible signal is not sounding.

Service Condition Mute: The audible signal cannot be muted during a SERVICE condition (chirps twice/min, SERVICE red LED blinks). The CA6150 displays 'Err' [Error indicator]. Test and mute functions are disabled.

10. What to Do When the Alarm Sounds

If Alarm Signal Sounds:

1. Operate the TEST/RESET/MUTE button.
2. Call your emergency services (e.g., fire department or 911) at [phone number placeholder].
3. Immediately move to fresh air outdoors or by an open door/window. Conduct a head count to ensure everyone is accounted for. Do not re-enter the premises until emergency responders arrive, the area is aired out, and the alarm is in its normal condition.
4. If the alarm reactivates within 24 hours, repeat steps 1-3 and call a qualified appliance technician at [phone number placeholder] to investigate the source of CO from fuel-burning equipment. Have any identified issues serviced immediately. Consult manufacturer instructions for any equipment not inspected. Ensure motor vehicles are not operating in or near the residence.

Manual Reset: Pressing the TEST/RESET/MUTE button temporarily silences the alarm. The ALARM red LED flashes 4 times, and the CA6150 displays 'OFF' for 5 seconds, then shows the CO level. If CO levels remain at 70 ppm or more, the alarm reactivates within 5 minutes.

Automatic Reset: If not manually reset, the horn sounds for at least 5 minutes. It resets automatically if the CO level drops to 10 ppm or lower.

If Returning to a Vacant Building: If you find the alarm sounding upon returning, do not enter. Call the Fire Department from another location. Do not re-enter until it is confirmed safe.

Conditions Causing Transient CO Situations:

• Excessive spillage or reverse venting of fuel-burning appliances due to outdoor conditions (wind, 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).
• Obstructions or unconventional vent pipe designs.
• Poorly designed or maintained chimneys/vents.
• Extended operation of unvented fuel-burning devices (ranges, ovens).
• Temperature inversions trapping exhaust gases.
• Car idling in or near an attached garage.

If a SERVICE signal (chirps twice/min, SERVICE red LED blinks) or low battery signal (chirps once/min, POWER green LED blinks) is activated, see Section 13 for service and return instructions.

11. Limitations of Carbon Monoxide Alarms

CO alarms respond to CO but do not detect smoke. If the alarm activates, follow Section 10.

CO alarms provide early warning at a reasonable cost but have sensing limitations. They may not always sound a warning if CO is present, especially if battery power is low or dead. Alarms must be tested regularly. They cannot sense CO that does not reach the sensor. If located on a different level or behind a closed door, they may not wake a sound sleeper. Drugs and alcohol can impair hearing. In multi-level homes, apartments, or hotels, install alarms on each level. If installed in a hallway with closed bedroom doors, install an alarm in each bedroom.

While CO alarms save lives, they are not a substitute for insurance. Property owners, leaseholders, and renters should have adequate insurance.

12. Good Safety Habits

Develop and Practice a Plan of Escape:

• Create a floor plan showing all doors, windows, and at least two escape routes from each room. Second-story windows may require a rope or chain ladder.
• Hold family meetings to discuss the escape plan and what to do when an alarm sounds.
• Designate an outdoor meeting place.
• Familiarize everyone with the alarm sound and train them to evacuate immediately.
• Practice a CO fire drill at least every six months. This helps test the plan and ensures everyone, including children, knows what to do.
• Discuss the symptoms of CO poisoning (see Section 4) with everyone.

13. Alarm End-of-Life and Service

After ten years, the alarm reaches its end-of-life and emits an End-of-Life signal (chirps once/min, SERVICE red LED glows for 3 seconds, CA6150 displays 'End' [End-of-life indicator]). The alarm must be replaced. See instructions below for removal, deactivation, and battery disposal.

If a low battery voltage signal occurs in less than ten years (potentially due to storage conditions or abnormal usage), press the TEST/RESET/MUTE button to mute the signal and place the alarm in a warmer environment (68°F+). If the signal resumes within 24 hours, deactivate the alarm and follow instructions on the last page for warranty service.

In case of malfunction, the alarm chirps twice/min, the SERVICE red LED blinks for 5 seconds, and the CA6150 displays 'Err' [Error indicator]. Do not attempt repair; service by a qualified technician is required. Follow deactivation steps and return instructions for warranty service.

Alarm Deactivation and Disposal: To remove the alarm for service or disposal, unscrew the mounting screw and slide the alarm off the mounting plate. Insert a small flat-head screwdriver into the slot to pry out the deactivation 'Stop' [deactivation stop]. Slide the switch to the farthest left end ('STOP' position) to deactivate. The switch moves in one direction only. Once deactivated, the sealed lithium batteries are discharged, and the alarm will no longer work. The alarm is permanently deactivated when the switch is moved past 'STOP' and the mounting hole is closed.

14. Description of Audible and Visual Signals

15. Ten-Year Limited Warranty

Defender carbon monoxide alarms are manufactured in Canada under ISO 9001 quality management. The manufacturer warrants the alarm and its factory-sealed lithium batteries to be free from defects for ten years from the purchase date. The manufacturer will repair or replace defective products or components. Replacements may be new or remanufactured, or a similar product of equal or greater value if the original is unavailable.

This warranty is valid for the original purchaser from the date of initial purchase from an authorized dealer and is not transferable. Keep the sales receipt; proof of purchase is required for warranty service.

This warranty does not cover normal wear, damage from improper storage, negligent use, use contrary to instructions, operation in unconditioned spaces (below 40°F or above 100°F), disassembly, or unauthorized repairs. It also does not cover acts of God.

The manufacturer is not liable for incidental or consequential damages. Implied warranties are limited to the duration of this warranty. Some jurisdictions may not allow limitations on incidental/consequential damages or implied warranty duration.

Warranty Service: If service is required, contact the U.S. manufacturer's representative at (800) 253-1529, Monday-Thursday, 8 AM - 4 PM MST, for a Return Authorization (RA) number. Have the model number, date of purchase, and manufacturing date ready.

Before returning, deactivate the alarm per Section 13, pack it carefully in a padded box, and ship freight prepaid with the original sales receipt, an explanation of the problem, and your return address.

Contact Information:

Defender Detectors Inc.

1495 Denison Street

Markham, Ontario L3R 5H1

Sales and Customer Service: (800) 253-1529

Website: www.defenderdetectors.com