ESL 560 Series 3V Standalone Smoke Alarm Installation Instructions

Description

The ESL 560 Series smoke alarm is designed for use as a standalone smoke alarm. Depending on the model, it offers features such as:

• Smoke Alarm/Base Lock: Discourages unauthorized removal by requiring a screwdriver.
• Optional Integrated Heat Alarm: A fixed 135°F temperature and rate-of-rise heat alarm trips when specific temperature thresholds are detected.
• CleanMe™ Self-diagnostics: (When UL listed with a transmitter) Monitors sensitivity and operational status. If sensitivity drifts out of range or internal diagnostics fail, the LED extinguishes.

Internal Signal Outputs

When listed with a transmitter, the smoke alarm provides signals for interfacing:

• Alarm
• Alarm restore
• Low battery
• CleanMe™
• Maintenance alert

Features Diagram

Figure 1 - Smoke Alarm Features: A diagram of the smoke alarm's top view, showing the sounder vent, optional temperature sensor, LED indicator, and test/silence button.

Selecting a Location

Choosing a suitable location is critical for smoke alarm operation. Installation should comply with the National Fire Protection Association's (NFPA) Standard 72. See Figure 2.

Are More Smoke Alarms Desirable?

The number of required smoke alarms may not provide adequate early warning for all areas, especially those separated by doors. It is recommended to consider additional smoke alarms for increased protection in areas like basements, bedrooms, dining rooms, furnace rooms, utility rooms, and hallways not covered by required alarms. Installation in kitchens, attics, or garages is generally not recommended due to conditions that can cause improper operation.

Important: Regulations for smoke alarm installation vary by state. Consult your local fire department or authority having jurisdiction for specific information.

Location Guidelines

In addition to NFPA 72, follow these guidelines for optimal performance and reduced false alarms:

• Ceiling-mounted alarms: Locate in the center of a room or hallway, at least 4 inches from walls or partitions.
• Wall-mounted alarms: Position the top of the alarm 4 to 12 inches below the ceiling.
• Environment:
  • Temperature: Between 40°F (4.4°C) and 100°F (37.8°C).
  • Humidity: Between 0 and 95% non-condensing.
• Locate away from air conditioners, heating registers, and other ventilation sources that could interfere with smoke entry.
• Mount on a firm, permanent surface.
• Locate away from large metallic objects if the unit is listed with a transmitter.

Smoke Alarm Placement Diagram

Figure 2 - Smoke Alarm Placement: A floor plan illustrating recommended smoke alarm placement within a house. Symbols [Required smoke alarm] (•) and [Additional smoke alarm] (⊗) indicate placement requirements.

Installing the Alarm

1. If using the alarm/base lock, remove the two knockouts on the mounting base. See Figure 3.
2. Slide the battery compartment cover away from the alarm to unsnap and lift it off. See Figure 4.
3. Insert two 3V lithium batteries, observing correct polarity, into the battery compartment and replace the cover.
4. Remove the red plastic dust cover from the alarm. This cover is for protection during shipping and in dusty environments.
5. Mount the base using the provided screws and anchors.
6. Attach the alarm to the mounting base:
   • Align the raised tab on the alarm lip with the slot on the mounting base lip. See Figure 4.
   • Insert the smoke alarm into the base and turn clockwise approximately 15 degrees until it snaps firmly into place.

Important: The alarm cannot be attached to the mounting base if no batteries are installed.

7. Test the alarm (see "Smoke Testing the Alarm").

Base Lock Knockouts Diagram

Figure 3 - Base Lock Knockouts: Shows the circular mounting base with two circular "Knockout" areas marked for removal.

Smoke Alarm-to-Base Alignment Diagram

Figure 4 - Smoke Alarm-to-Base Alignment: Illustrates how to align the smoke alarm with its mounting base, showing a "Tab" on the alarm lip and a "Slot" on the base lip. It also points out the "Battery compartment".

Smoke Testing the Smoke Alarm

Test smoke alarms annually using smoke or canned aerosol simulated smoke. Follow the instructions on the canned smoke or use these steps:

1. Hold a smoldering punk or cotton wick close to the smoke entry openings.
2. Gently direct smoke into the alarm for 20 seconds or until an alarm is indicated.

BE SURE TO PROPERLY EXTINGUISH THE SMOKE SOURCE AFTER TESTING! The alarm LED should remain on, and the alarm will sound a temporal rhythm until the Test/Silence button is pressed. The alarm resets automatically when smoke is no longer present.

Understanding the Test/Silence Button

The Test/Silence button performs three functions:

• Testing: Press for 2 seconds to perform a sounder and sensitivity test.
• Silence Alarm: Press to silence the sounder during an alarm. The sounder and alarm will resume after a few minutes if smoke is still present.
• Silence Trouble Chirp: Press to silence a trouble chirp. The chirp will resume after 24 hours if the trouble condition is not corrected.

Testing the Alarm Sensitivity

This test mode checks smoke alarm sensitivity using the Test/Silence button and LED indicator:

1. Press the Test/Silence button for 2 seconds. The alarm LED will flash one to nine times.
2. Count the flashes and refer to the table below to determine the alarm's sensitivity status and required action.

After the flashes, if sensitivity is within limits and other tests pass, the alarm enters alarm mode and resets after 5 seconds. If sensitivity is out of limits or a hardware fault is detected, the LED extinguishes until serviced.

Attaching and Removing the Smoke Alarm

To remove the alarm from the mounting base: Grasp the alarm and turn it counterclockwise approximately 15 degrees. The alarm should snap off.

To remove the alarm when the alarm/base lock is used: Insert a small screwdriver into the locking tab slot on the side of the base and press in while simultaneously turning the alarm counterclockwise 15 degrees. See Figure 5.

To attach the alarm to its mounting base:

• Align the raised tab on the smoke alarm lip with the slot on the mounting base lip. See Figure 4.
• Insert the smoke alarm into the base and turn clockwise approximately 15 degrees until it snaps firmly into place.

Smoke Alarm/Base Lock Diagram

Figure 5 - Smoke Alarm/Base Lock: Depicts the smoke alarm attached to its base. An arrow indicates the clockwise rotation for attachment and counter-clockwise for removal. A detail shows the "Alarm/base lock" mechanism, indicating where a screwdriver is inserted to release the lock.

Understanding the LED

The LED indicator shows the alarm's status:

• FLASHING: Flashes every 9 seconds for normal operation.
• ON: Detects smoke.
• OFF: Indicates trouble or maintenance is required.

When to Replace the Batteries

The 560 Series smoke alarm requires two 3V lithium A batteries. These are available where other batteries are sold.

Battery life is a minimum of 1 year, varying with test frequency. When batteries are low, the alarm's LED extinguishes and it chirps every 30 seconds until batteries are replaced. The sounder can be silenced for 24 hours by pressing the Test/Silence button.

Replacing the Batteries

Use only 3V lithium A batteries.

1. Remove the alarm from the mounting base. See "Attaching and Removing the Smoke Alarm".
2. Slide the battery compartment cover away from the alarm to unsnap and lift it off. See Figure 4.
3. Remove and properly dispose of the old batteries.
4. Insert two new 3V lithium batteries, observing correct polarity, and replace the cover.
5. Reattach the alarm to the mounting base. See "Attaching and Removing the Smoke Alarm".
6. Test the alarm (see "Smoke Testing the Alarm").

Removing Alarm Cap Diagram

Figure 6 - Removing Alarm Cap: Shows the smoke alarm with an arrow indicating the counter-clockwise rotation to remove the "Alarm Cap".

Cleaning the Alarm

Clean the alarm cover with a dry or damp cloth as needed to remove dust and dirt.

For interior cleaning and smoke chamber replacement:

1. Remove the alarm from its mounting base. See "Attaching and Removing the Smoke Alarm".
2. Remove the batteries. See "Replacing the Batteries".
3. Slide a flat-blade screwdriver into the slot on the alarm cap and gently push down to pry the cap up and off. See Figure 6.
4. Press in on the sides of the smoke chamber and pull it up and away from the alarm; discard the old chamber. See Figure 7.
5. Blow out or use a soft-bristled brush to remove dust and dirt from the smoke chamber base.
6. Align the new smoke chamber with the base and snap it into place.
7. Replace the alarm cap:
   • Align the cap with the smoke alarm.
   • Insert the cap and turn clockwise approximately 15 degrees until it snaps firmly into place.
8. Insert batteries, observing correct polarity, and replace the battery compartment cover.
9. Reattach the alarm to its mounting base. See "Attaching and Removing the Smoke Alarm".
10. Test the alarm sensitivity. See "Testing the Alarm Sensitivity".

Alarm Parts Diagram

Figure 7 - Alarm Parts: An exploded view of the smoke alarm's internal parts, labeling the "Optical base", "Smoke chamber latch", "Indentation" (squeeze point), "Smoke chamber", and "Alarm cap".

Maintaining the Alarm

The 560 Series smoke alarms are designed for easy field service and require minimal maintenance when installed and used properly.

The smoke alarm should be tested weekly. See "Testing the Alarm Sensitivity" and "Smoke Testing the Alarm".

When a 560 Series alarm listed with a transmitter requires maintenance, its LED extinguishes, and it initiates external signals as described below:

If the 560 alarm is used as a standalone detector, refer to "Testing the Alarm Sensitivity".

Fire Prevention and Escape

The purpose of an early warning smoke alarm is to detect fire in its early stages and sound an alarm, giving occupants time to exit safely.

Avoid Fire Hazards

No detection device can protect life in all situations. Take safeguards to avoid dangerous situations:

• Do not smoke in bed.
• Do not leave children home alone.
• Never clean with flammable liquids like gasoline.
• Store materials properly and practice good housekeeping. A cluttered basement, attic, or storage area is an invitation to fire.
• Use combustible materials and electrical appliances carefully and only for their intended uses. Do not overload electrical outlets.
• Do not store explosive or fast-burning materials in your home.

Even with precautions, fires can start. Be prepared.

In Case of Fire

If a fire occurs, do the following:

• Leave immediately. Do not stop to pack or search for valuables.
• In heavy smoke, hold your breath, stay low, and crawl if necessary. The clearest air is near the floor.
• If you must go through a closed door, feel the door and knob for heat. If cool, brace your foot against the bottom, hip against the door, and hand on the top edge. Open slightly. If hot air rushes in, slam and latch the door quickly. Unvented fires build pressure; ensure household members understand this danger.
• Use a neighbor's phone or a street fire alarm box to call the fire department. Leave firefighting to professionals.

Be Prepared

Practice these steps to prepare your family for a fire:

• Perform fire drills regularly to ensure recognition of the alarm signal.
• Draw a floor plan showing two exits from each room. Instruct children carefully, as they may hide during a crisis.
• Establish a single meeting place outside the home. This prevents someone from re-entering the house for a member who is actually safe.
• If you have children or physically challenged individuals, use window decals to help emergency personnel identify their sleeping quarters.

Limited Warranty

ESL is a brand of Sentrol. The manufacturer warrants this smoke alarm (excluding batteries) against defects in material and workmanship under normal use for 3 years from the date of manufacture.

During the warranty period, defective Sentrol products or components will be repaired or replaced free of charge. Out-of-warranty units may be repaired at the manufacturer's discretion, or a replacement unit cost will be provided.

This warranty does not apply to units subjected to abuse, misuse, negligence, accident, or unauthorized modifications/repairs.

The warranty extends only to the original purchaser and is enforceable only by them.

To obtain service, call 1-800-648-7424 or 503-692-4052 to get a Return Authorization Number. Pack the unit securely in a well-padded carton and return, with postal charges prepaid, to:

Customer Service
Sentrol
12345 SW Leveton Drive
Tualatin, OR 97062-9938

Include a note detailing the malfunction. Proper packing is crucial, as Sentrol is not responsible for damage due to improper packing.

THE ABOVE WARRANTY IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER EXPRESS WARRANTIES. IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARE LIMITED TO 3 YEARS FROM THE DATE OF MANUFACTURE. SENTROL SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, INCLUDING PERSONAL INJURY OR PROPERTY DAMAGE. MANUFACTURER'S LIABILITY WILL NOT EXCEED THE PURCHASE PRICE OF THE PRODUCT. Some states may not allow limitations on implied warranty duration or exclusion of incidental/consequential damages, so these limitations may not apply to you. Any action against the manufacturer must be commenced within one year after the cause of action occurred, unless a longer period is required by applicable law.

No agent, employee, or representative is authorized to modify this warranty. Repair or replacement is the exclusive remedy. This warranty grants specific legal rights, and you may have other rights that vary by state.

WARNING! LIMITATIONS OF SMOKE ALARMS

While reliable, wireless smoke alarms may not work under all conditions. No fire alarm provides total protection. Smoke alarms are not a substitute for life insurance.

• Power Source: Smoke alarms require power. They will not operate if batteries are dead or improperly installed.
• Audibility: Sound sleepers or individuals under the influence of drugs or alcohol may not awaken if the alarm is outside a bedroom. Closed doors and distance can block sound. This alarm is not designed for the hearing impaired.
• Early Warning: Smoke alarms only activate when enough smoke reaches them. Fires starting in chimneys, walls, roofs, behind closed doors, or on different levels may not trigger the alarm early enough.

SMOKE ALARMS ARE A SIGNIFICANT HELP IN REDUCING LOSS, INJURY, AND EVEN DEATH. HOWEVER, NO MATTER HOW GOOD A DETECTION DEVICE IS, NOTHING WORKS PERFECTLY UNDER EVERY CIRCUMSTANCE. YOU CANNOT EXPECT A SMOKE ALARM TO ENSURE THAT YOU WILL NEVER SUFFER ANY DAMAGE OR INJURY.

Specifications

Product Ordering

Accessories

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

ESL is a product of SENTROL.

Sentrol reserves the right to change specifications without notice. ©2000 Sentrol