Kidde 30CUA10 Combination Photoelectric Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm User Guide
Model 30CUA10
This guide provides information on the Kidde Combination Photoelectric Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm with Hardwire Interconnect.
Key Features:
- 120V Hardwire Interconnect
- 10-Year Battery Backup (AC Power Required)
- Self-Testing
Certifications:
- UL Certified Safety Signaling
- California State Fire Marshal Listing Service
This alarm helps reduce cooking nuisance alarms.
Thank You for Purchasing this Kidde Alarm
This hardwired alarm features a non-replaceable, sealed-in battery backup and includes HUSH™ to temporarily silence nuisance alarms, and "self-testing" features. It is designed to 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. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the manufacturer recommend replacing this alarm ten years from the date code on the back of the alarm.
Record Keeping:
- 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, a 1.5-second pause, and three long beeps repeating. The red LED blinks in time with the alarm pattern only on the alarm(s) that detected the hazard (initiating alarm). The smoke alarm takes precedence when both smoke and carbon monoxide are present.
- Alert small children and others who may have difficulty recognizing the alarm or leaving the area without help.
- Plan two ways out! Leave immediately by your escape plan. Do not waste time getting dressed or picking up valuables.
- When leaving, do not open any inside door without first feeling its surface. If hot, or if smoke is seeping through cracks, use an alternate exit. If the door is cool, open it slightly and be ready to slam it shut if heat and smoke rush 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 cloth, wet if possible.
- Once outside, go to your selected meeting place and ensure everyone is there.
- Call the fire department or 911 from outside your home.
- Do not return to your home until fire officials say it is safe.
NOTE: See Section RECOGNIZING NUISANCE ALARMS for nuisance alarm situations.
2. Carbon Monoxide Alarm: What To Do When The Alarm Sounds
The carbon monoxide (CO) alarm pattern is four quick beeps repeating every 5 seconds. The red LED blinks in time with the alarm pattern only on the alarm(s) that detected the hazard. On DC power only, after 4 minutes in CO alarm, the pattern occurs every 60 seconds.
WARNING: ACTUATION OF YOUR CO ALARM INDICATES THE PRESENCE OF CARBON MONOXIDE (CO) WHICH CAN KILL YOU. IF ALARM SIGNAL SOUNDS:
- Operate the Test/Hush™ button. Pressing the button silences the alarm notification. If the unit alarms again within six minutes, it is sensing high levels of CO.
- Call your emergency services (Fire Department or 911). EMERGENCY PHONE #:___________
- Immediately move to fresh air outdoors or by an open door/window. Check that all persons are accounted for. Do not reenter the premises until emergency services responders have arrived, the premises have been aired out, and your alarm remains in its normal condition.
- If the alarm reactivates within a 24-hour period, repeat steps 1-3 and call a qualified appliance technician to investigate sources of CO and inspect equipment operation.
NOTE: See Section RECOGNIZING NUISANCE ALARMS for nuisance alarm situations.
3. Other Alarm Visual And Audible Indicators
Operational Mode | Visual Indications | Audible Indications | Action/Note |
---|---|---|---|
Normal (standby) | AC power: Green LED on continuously. DC power: Green LED blinks approx every 60 sec. | ||
Test (button press when no alarm condition is present) (Note: Test is very loud, stand a few feet away.) | Red LED blinks in time with alarm pattern. | • Single beep. • 3 long beeps, pause, 3 long beeps, 4 quick beeps, pause, 4 quick beeps. | Perform button press once a week to verify proper alarm operation. |
Smoke or CO Alarm Memory (unit has experienced a smoke or CO alarm event, or has detected 100ppm CO or greater.) | Smoke: Red LED blinks every 15 sec. CO: 2 red LED blinks every 15 sec. | NOTE: Alarm memory is only retained for 24 hrs. Push button to clear Alarm Memory. | |
Smoke Alarm Hush™ Mode | Red LED blinks every 2 sec. (only on the initiating alarm) | After button push, smoke alarm pattern stops. (If there is too much smoke to allow Hush™, smoke alarm pattern continues.) | This feature is to be used only when a known alarm condition, such as smoke from cooking, activates the alarm. Push button during Hush™ to clear Hush™ and perform a test. |
CO Alarm Reset | None. | After button push: CO alarm pattern stops. | Unit is confirming if CO is present or if it experienced a nuisance situation. Re-alarm means danger. Move to fresh air and call 911. |
Initiating Alarm (multiple alarms in an interconnected system) | Red LED blinks in time with alarm pattern indicating that this is the unit initiating the alarm in an interconnected, multiple alarm, system. NOTE: It is possible for more than one unit to detect a hazard and become an initiating alarm unit (Red LED blinking). | Unit in either Smoke or CO alarm mode. |
4. Troubleshooting Guide
If you are experiencing a problem with your alarm, or a fault, and are unsure of the next action, please contact product support at 1-800-880-6788. You may also write Kidde, 1016 Corporate Park Drive, Mebane, NC 27302, or visit www.kidde.com.
Trouble Condition | Visual Indications | Audible Indications | Action |
---|---|---|---|
False Low Battery (AC power connected before backup battery activated) | None | Chirp every 60 sec. | • Rotate the alarm onto the mounting bracket to activate backup battery. |
Low Battery | Amber LED blinks every 60 sec. | Chirp every 60 sec. | • Push button once to silence for 24 hrs. (Push button again to clear Hush™ and perform a test.) Note: 7 days after Low Battery begins, notifications cannot be silenced. • Remove alarm, discharge, dispose unit, and replace as soon as possible. |
Smoke Sensor Fault | Amber LED blinks every 60 sec. | 3 chirps every 60 sec. | • See Cleaning Your Alarm section. • Push button once to attempt to reset the unit. • If error continues, remove alarm, discharge, dispose unit, and replace as soon as possible. |
CO Fault | Amber LED blinks 2 times every 60 sec. | 3 chirps every 60 sec. | • Push button once to attempt to reset the unit. • If error continues, remove alarm, discharge, dispose unit, and replace as soon as possible. |
Fatal Fault | Amber LED blinks 3 times every 60 sec. | 3 chirps every 60 sec. | • Push button once to attempt to reset the unit. • If error continues, remove alarm, discharge, dispose unit, and replace as soon as possible. |
End of Unit Life | Amber LED blinks 2 times every 60 sec. | 2 chirps every 60 sec. | • Push button once to silence for 24 hrs. (Push button again to clear Hush™ and perform a test.) Note: 7 days after End of Unit Life begins, notifications cannot be silenced. • Remove alarm, discharge, dispose unit, and replace as soon as possible. |
MCU Failure | None | Constant Tone | • Remove alarm, discharge, dispose unit, and replace as soon as possible. |
Stuck Button | Amber LED blinks 4 times every 60 sec. | 3 chirps every 60 sec. | • Push button to dislodge it from being stuck. If button cannot be unstuck, remove alarm, discharge, dispose unit, and replace as soon as possible. |
5. Introduction, Product Features And Specifications
Introduction
This alarm detects products of combustion using a photoelectric sensor and carbon monoxide using an electrochemical cell. Throughout this guide, Carbon Monoxide is referred to as “CO.” Ten years after installation, the unit will automatically alert you that it is time to replace it, known as “End of Unit Life” mode. A label on the alarm side allows you to record the installation and replacement dates. AC power must be connected for the full 10-year battery and unit life. Two labels with information on CO alarms are provided; 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 sealed lithium battery backup
- Reduced nuisance alarms
- Self-testing (see section 10)
- Easy installation
- Smoke Alarm Hush™
- Smoke Sensor: Photoelectric
- CO Sensor: Electrochemical
- Temperature Operating Range: 40°F (4.4°C) to 100°F (37.8°C)
- Humidity Operating Range: 10 to 95% RH, non-condensing
- Audible Alarm: 85+ dB at 10', 3.0 to 3.5 KHz pulsing alarm
6. 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 appropriate egress actions.
- Situations where a smoke alarm may not be effective include: smoking in bed, leaving children home alone, or cleaning with flammable liquids.
- Fire warning systems protect about half of occupants in fatal fires. Smoke alarms may be ineffective in situations like incendiary fires or when occupants are physically impaired. Additional strategies like protection-in-place or assisted escape may be necessary for vulnerable individuals.
- This model meets residential smoke alarm standards with enhanced resistance to cooking nuisance alarms. Industry experts recommend both ionization and photoelectric alarms for optimal detection of various fire types. Photoelectric alarms detect visible fire particles (slow smoldering fires), while ionization alarms detect invisible particles (fast flaming fires).
- Battery-powered alarms require a battery of the specified type, in good condition and installed properly. This model has a sealed backup battery.
- Smoke alarms must be tested regularly to ensure battery and circuit operation.
- Smoke alarms cannot alarm if smoke does not reach them, potentially missing fires in chimneys, within walls, on roofs, or behind closed doors.
- An alarm located outside a bedroom or on a different floor may not wake a sound sleeper.
- Alcohol or drug use can impair hearing of the alarm. For optimal detection, install an alarm in each sleeping area on every level of a home.
- This alarm is not intended to alert hearing-impaired individuals.
* Reference National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standard 72
7. Recommended Locations For Smoke And Carbon Monoxide Alarms
- Locate smoke alarms in all sleeping areas, monitoring the exit path from bedrooms. If more than one sleeping area exists, 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 where electrical appliances are operated (e.g., portable heaters or 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 to the ceiling and spread horizontally. Mounting the alarm on the ceiling in the center of the room places it closest to all points. Ceiling mounting is preferred in ordinary residential construction.
Diagram 7-A Description: Shows acceptable mounting locations on a wall and ceiling. For wall mounting, the top of the alarm should be a maximum of 12 inches (30.5 cm) below the ceiling. For ceiling mounting, the alarm should be placed within the 'ACCEPTABLE' area, which is indicated as being within 12 inches (30.5 cm) of the wall or ceiling edge. A second diagram shows acceptable placement on tray-shaped ceilings, indicating 'ANYWHERE ALONG THIS BOLD SURFACE' which is within 4 inches (102 mm) of the ceiling peak.
Diagram 7-B Description: Illustrates alarm placement in single-floor and multi-floor houses. Circles indicate smoke alarms for required detection, and triangles indicate smoke alarms for additional detection. Alarms are shown in bedrooms, living areas, kitchens, and basements. A note indicates 'Not within 6 feet of appliances'.
Diagram 7-C Description: Shows placement on sloped ceilings. For ceilings with slopes greater than 1 ft in 8 ft horizontally, alarms should be on the high side. For rows of detectors, they should be within 3 ft (0.9m) of the ceiling peak.
NFPA 72 states: “Smoke alarms in rooms with ceiling slopes greater than 1 ft in 8 ft (0.3m in 2.4 m) horizontally shall be located on the high side of the room.” NFPA 72 states: “A row of detectors shall be spaced and located within 3 ft (0.9m) of the peak of the ceiling measured horizontally.”
Mobile Home Installation: Install smoke alarms as recommended. In older, less insulated mobile homes, install the alarm on an inside wall with the top edge a maximum of 12" (30.5 cm) below the ceiling to prevent thermal barriers from affecting detection. If unsure about insulation, 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.
8. Locations To Avoid
- In the garage: Products of combustion are present when starting an automobile.
- Near cooking appliances: Normal cooking may cause nuisance alarms. If a kitchen alarm is desired, it should have a silence feature and be installed at least 6 ft from cooking appliances.
- Within 6 ft of heating appliances.
- Less than 4" (10cm) from the peak of an "A" frame type ceiling.
- Areas where temperature may fall below 40°F or rise above 100°F (e.g., garages, unfinished attics).
- Dusty areas: Dust particles may cause nuisance alarms or failure to alarm.
- Very humid areas (above 95% RH, non-condensing): Moisture or steam can cause nuisance alarms.
- Insect-infested areas.
- Within 3 ft (.9m) of a bathroom door, forced air supply ducts, ceiling or whole house ventilating fans, or other high air flow areas.
- Near lights: Electronic "noise" from lights may cause nuisance alarms.
- Near vents, flues, or chimneys.
- Near fans, doors, windows, or areas directly exposed to the weather.
- Where the unit will be exposed to direct sunlight.
9. Wiring / Installation / Activation
NOTE: A dust cover is installed on the alarm. Keep it on until construction is completed for at least 24 hours (drywall, painting, etc.). Retain and re-install the dust cover during future construction. Construction dust and chemicals can cause contamination and false alarms.
WARNING: DUST COVER MUST BE REMOVED FOR ALARM TO OPERATE.
NOTE: To avoid false low battery chirping, ensure activation:
A. Locate the red wheel on the back of the unit and turn it to the “ON” position using a standard screwdriver. (See Figure 9-A). The battery will remain active for installation.
B. Install the alarm fully on the mounting bracket by rotating it clockwise. (See Figure 9-C). The battery remains active when the unit is removed from the bracket.
NOTE: Do not grab the shield to install or remove the alarm. Grab the alarm by the outside of the enclosure. (Figure 9-B).
Figure 9-A Description: Shows the back of the alarm with a red wheel labeled 'ON', 'PERMANENTLY DISABLE and DISCHARGE ALARM', and 'End of unit life / Low battery'. A screwdriver is shown turning the wheel.
Figure 9-B Description: Illustrates how to attach and remove the alarm from the mounting bracket. One image shows grabbing the shield with a cross mark (X), indicating incorrect. Another shows grabbing the outside of the enclosure with a check mark (✓), indicating correct.
Figure 9-C Description: Shows the mounting bracket with an 'A' line for orientation. Arrows indicate 'Install' and 'Remove' directions. The alarm is shown fully installed with the button at the bottom.
Wiring Requirements
- Install on a UL Listed or recognized junction box. Connections should be made by a qualified electrician according to applicable codes (e.g., NEC articles 210, 300.3(B), NFPA 70, NFPA 72). Interconnect wiring must run 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.
- Use a 120 Volt AC Single Phase power source from a non-switchable circuit.
- Do not use detector guards unless the combination has been evaluated and found suitable.
- Kidde alarms are not designed, tested, or certified for recessed mounting. Recessed mounting impedes smoke entry and may prevent timely alarm. Kidde alarms are designed, tested, and certified for wall and ceiling surface mount only.
WARNING: THE ALARM CANNOT BE OPERATED FROM POWER DERIVED FROM A SQUARE WAVE, MODIFIED SQUARE WAVE OR MODIFIED SINE WAVE, INVERTER. THESE TYPES OF INVERTERS 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 alarms are hardwire interconnected, all units must be powered from a single circuit.
A maximum of 24 Kidde Safety devices may be interconnected. The interconnect system should not exceed the NFPA limit of 12 smoke alarms and/or 18 alarms total. With 18 alarms, up to 6 remote signaling devices and/or relay modules can be interconnected.
Figure 9-D Description: Interconnect Wiring Diagram showing how to wire multiple alarms together. Wires (Black, Red, White) connect from the AC line to the alarms. Red wires are used for interconnect. A Kidde Relay Module is shown as an optional accessory.
Figure 9-E Description: Illustrates service wiring practice for preventing nuisance alarms, showing receptacles and interconnected alarms in relation to a service panel.
Improper connection will result in damage to the alarm, failure to operate, or a shock hazard.
- Make certain alarms are wired to a continuous (non-switched) power line.
- NOTE: Use standard UL Listed household wire.
- NOTE: AC power should be turned off at this stage.
- 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 are on the same line, place them ahead of the smoke alarms to prevent voltage drops.
Figure 9-F Description: Shows the mounting bracket with 'Alignment Marks ("A" Line)'. It depicts the AC Quick Connector harness and how to insert the AC Quick connector into the slot on the alarm. It also shows the alarm being installed onto the bracket.
The alarm is now activated! After installation/activation, test your alarm as described in Operation and Testing.
WARNING: FAILURE TO PROPERLY INSTALL AND ACTIVATE THIS ALARM WILL PREVENT PROPER OPERATION OF THIS ALARM AND WILL PREVENT ITS RESPONSE TO FIRE AND CO HAZARDS.
10. Operation And Testing
This model meets the latest residential smoke alarm standards, including enhanced resistance to nuisance alarms from cooking.
Operation
The alarm operates once activated and tested. When products of combustion (smoke or CO) are sensed, the unit sounds a loud alarm. See Sections 1 and 2 for alarm signal descriptions. In high levels of CO, the unit will alarm faster than at low levels.
CO ALARM SENSOR RESPONSE TIMES
- At 70 PPM, the unit must alarm within 60-240 minutes.
- At 150 PPM, the unit must alarm within 10-50 minutes.
- At 400 PPM, the unit must alarm within 4-15 minutes.
Testing
WARNING: Do not test with retail "canned smoke" products, as they are intended for professionals and can damage the alarm if misused.
Self-Testing
This model has internal, self-testing components that continuously check device operation. Weekly manual testing is still required.
Manual Testing
NOTE: Use only your finger or thumb to push the Test button. Using other instruments (like a broom handle) is prohibited and may damage the alarm.
Test your alarm weekly by pressing and releasing the button quickly. A quick beep confirms the button push, followed by the test sequence. The alarm (and any interconnected units) will sound if the electronics, horn, and battery are working. If the alarm does not sound, or sounds erratically, it must be replaced. See Permanently Disable Alarm / Discharge Battery section for preparation for shipment or disposal.
WARNING: DUE TO THE LOUDNESS OF THE ALARM, ALWAYS STAND ABOUT 2.5 FEET AWAY FROM THE UNIT OR USE EAR PROTECTION WHEN TESTING.
WARNING: DO NOT USE AN OPEN FLAME TO TEST YOUR ALARM, YOU COULD DAMAGE THE ALARM OR IGNITE COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS AND START A STRUCTURE FIRE.
Chirping
When End of Unit Life or Low Battery chirping begins, you can temporarily silence these chirps by pressing the button. Other fault/error chirps cannot be silenced. Take appropriate action as described in the Troubleshooting Guide.
WARNING: REPLACE UNIT AS SOON AS POSSIBLE WHEN IN END OF UNIT LIFE OR LOW BATTERY MODE. SEVEN (7) DAYS AFTER END OF UNIT LIFE BEGINS, THE NOTIFICATIONS CANNOT BE SILENCED, AND SMOKE AND CO DETECTION CANNOT BE GUARANTEED. REPLACE IMMEDIATELY!
11. Recognizing Nuisance Alarms
Smoke Nuisance
This model meets residential smoke alarm standards with enhanced resistance to nuisance alarms from cooking.
HUSH™: If you know why the alarm is sounding and it is not a life-threatening situation, push the button on the initiating unit to silence the alarm for 8-10 minutes. If the smoke is not too dense, that unit and all interconnected units will silence. After the Hush™ period, the alarm resets and will sound again if combustion particles are still present. You can use Hush™ repeatedly until the air clears.
NOTE: Dense smoke will override Hush™ and sound a continuous alarm. If no fire is present, check for reasons listed in "Locations to avoid." If a fire is discovered, get out and call the fire department or 911.
This alarm is designed to minimize nuisance alarms. Cigarette smoke usually won't cause an alarm unless blown directly into it. Combustion particles from cooking may trigger the alarm if located too close to an appliance. Using a range hood that vents outside helps prevent nuisance alarms.
Carbon Monoxide (CO) Nuisance
RESET: Pushing the 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 levels of CO. Move to fresh air and call 911.
WARNING: IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO DETERMINE THE SOURCE OF A CO ALARM USING SIGHT OR SMELL. ALWAYS CONSIDER A CO ALARM EVENT AS DANGEROUS.
12. Battery Backup
This alarm is powered by AC power and includes a sealed lithium battery backup system. No battery installation or replacement is necessary for the life of the alarm. NOTE: AC power must be connected for the full 10-year battery and unit life. Constant exposure to high/low humidity or temperatures may reduce battery life.
WARNING: NO SERVICEABLE PARTS INCLUDED. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO OPEN THE ALARM FOR ANY REASON! DO NOT TRY TO REPAIR THE ALARM YOURSELF.
LOW BATTERY
The alarm has a low battery monitor circuit. When battery capacity is low, the "Low Battery Warning" occurs. The unit must be replaced within 7 days of the first occurrence of this warning to ensure continuous alarm detection. See Troubleshooting Guide.
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 install and activate this alarm will prevent proper operation and its response to fire and CO hazards.
13. Permanently Disable Alarm / Discharge Battery
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 SIDE OF TAB from base.
- After removing the SIDE OF TAB, use a screwdriver to turn the red slotted arrow to the “PERMANENTLY DISABLE and DISCHARGE ALARM” location until it clicks/locks into position. This will disable the alarm, stop chirps, and render the alarm safe for disposal by draining the battery.
Figures 13-A and 13-B Description: Diagrams illustrating the process to permanently disable and discharge the alarm battery. They show the red wheel on the back of the alarm being turned to the 'PERMANENTLY DISABLE and DISCHARGE ALARM' position after removing a 'SIDE OF TAB' from the base.
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 homes, appliances used for heating and cooking are common sources. Vehicles and other combustion engines in attached garages, charcoal/gas grills, or hibachis in enclosed areas also produce CO. Generators in enclosed areas create CO. CO is produced when burning any fossil fuel (gasoline, diesel, propane, natural gas, oil, wood). It can be produced 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 cracked furnace heat exchangers can also release CO.
Transient CO Situations
Conditions that can result in transient CO situations include: 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, obstructions or unconventional vent pipe designs, extended operation of unvented fuel-burning devices, temperature inversions trapping exhaust gases, and car idling in or near garages.
CO Safety Tips
Annually, have the heating system, vents, chimney, and flue inspected and cleaned by a qualified technician. Always install appliances according to manufacturer's 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 alarm sounds and response procedures. Fire Departments, utility companies, and HVAC contractors can perform CO inspections; inquire about fees.
Symptoms of CO Poisoning
Initial CO poisoning symptoms resemble flu without fever and can include dizziness, severe headaches, nausea, vomiting, and disorientation. Unborn babies, pregnant women, senior citizens, and those with heart or respiratory problems are especially vulnerable. Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms occur. CO poisoning can be diagnosed via a carboxyhemoglobin test.
Symptoms related to CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING:
- 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, and death.
These levels relate to healthy adults; levels differ for those at high risk. Exposure to high CO levels can be fatal or cause permanent damage. Young children and pets may be affected first.
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 openings around the perimeter. 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.
Figure 15-A Description: Illustrations showing how to clean the alarm. One shows using compressed air or a vacuum hose through the perimeter openings (✓). Another shows not inserting fingers or cleaning items under the shield (X). A third shows not using a hair dryer (X).
If the alarm is in Fault mode, it may need cleaning. After cleaning, press the button. If the fault persists, the alarm needs replacement.
- Never use detergent or other solvents to clean the unit.
- Avoid spraying air freshener, hair spray, or other aerosols near the alarm.
- Do not use a hair dryer to clean the alarm, as it may damage performance.
- Do not paint the unit, as paint will seal vents and interfere with sensor ability.
- Never attempt to disassemble the unit to clean inside; this voids the warranty.
- 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 drills at night. Know two ways out of every room (door & window) and identify a meeting place outside. When two people reach the meeting place, one should call 911 while the other stays to account for family members. Establish a rule: once you're out, never re-enter.
- Make a floor plan indicating doors, windows, and at least two escape routes per room. Stories above ground level may need a rope or chain ladder.
- Hold a family meeting to discuss the escape plan, including what to do in case of fire and where to meet.
- Ensure small children hear the alarm and wake up to execute the plan. Practice allows occupants to test the plan. You may not be able to reach children; ensure they know what to do.
- Familiarize everyone with the alarm sounds and train them to leave the home when they hear it.
- Studies show smoke/CO alarms may not awaken all sleeping individuals. 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 of the home, including the kitchen, basement, and garage. Know how to use one before an emergency.
Before performing projects like staining, painting, or wallpapering, move the alarm to another location. Store the unit in a plastic bag to protect sensors. Ensure the area is well-ventilated when using household cleaning supplies.
WARNING: REINSTALL THE ALARM AS SOON AS POSSIBLE TO ENSURE CONTINUOUS DETECTION.
Fire Prevention
Never smoke in bed or leave cooking food 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" if clothes catch fire, and how to crawl low under smoke. Install and maintain fire extinguishers on every level of the home.
NFPA (National Fire Protection Association)
NFPA 72 provides guidelines for fire safety in family living units through a three-point program: minimizing fire hazards, providing fire-warning equipment, and practicing an escape plan.
NFPA 72 Requirements for Smoke Alarms:
- In all sleeping rooms and guest rooms.
- Outside of each separate dwelling unit sleeping area, within 21 ft (6.4 m) of any door to a sleeping room, measured along the path of travel.
- On every level of a dwelling unit, including basements.
- On every level of a residential board and care occupancy (small facility), including basements and 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).
The required number of smoke alarms may not provide adequate protection for areas separated by doors. Additional alarms are recommended for basements, bedrooms, dining rooms, furnace rooms, utility rooms, and hallways. Installation in attics, garages, or within 6' of heating/cooking appliances is not normally recommended due to potential improper operation.
* Reference National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standard 72
California State Fire Marshal
Early warning fire detection is best achieved by installing fire detection equipment in all rooms and areas of the household, including sleeping areas, living rooms, dining rooms, kitchens, hallways, attics, furnace rooms, closets, utility and 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) it may not cause harmful interference, and (2) it must accept any interference received.
WARNING! Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate this device.
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and may cause harmful interference to radio communications if not installed and used per instructions.
If this equipment causes harmful interference to radio or television reception, try correcting it by:
- Reorienting or relocating the receiving antenna.
- Increasing the separation between the equipment and receiver.
- Connecting the equipment to an outlet on a different circuit than the receiver.
- Consulting a dealer or experienced radio/TV technician.
17. Service And Warranty
Ten-Year Limited Warranty
Kidde warrants the alarm to be free from defects in material and workmanship for ten years from the date of purchase under normal use. Kidde's obligation is limited to repairing or replacing the defective alarm or part, free of charge, upon receipt with proof of purchase. Before shipping, follow the steps in the Permanently Disable Alarm / Discharge Battery section.
This warranty does not apply if the alarm is damaged, modified, abused, altered, or fails due to improper maintenance or inadequate power. Implied warranties are limited to the duration of this warranty. The Manufacturer is not liable for loss of use, indirect, special, incidental, or consequential damages. The Manufacturer is not liable for personal injury, property damage, or consequential damages from gas leakage, smoke, fire, or explosion.
Some states do not allow limitations on implied warranty duration or consequential damages. This warranty gives specific legal rights, and you may have other rights that vary by state.
The warranty may not be altered except in writing. Your Kidde Alarm is not a substitute for insurance. Consult your insurance agent. Opening the unit voids the warranty. If printed and online warranty terms differ, the online warranty terms supersede.
Visit www.kidde.com for the latest warranty statement.
Contact Information
For questions or more information, call Kidde Product Support at 1-800-880-6788 or contact them at www.kidde.com.
Kidde
1016 Corporate Park Drive, Mebane, NC 27302
© 2024 Kidde. All Rights Reserved.