First Alert PC910 User Manual

INSTALLATION
USER'S MANUAL
WHERE TO INSTALL THIS ALARM
Minimum coverage for Smoke larms, as recommended by the
COMBINATION CARBON MONOXIDE
National Fire Protection ssociation (NFP ), is one Smoke larm on
& SMOKE ALARM
every floor, in every sleeping area, and in every bedroom (See
"Regulatory Information For Smoke larms" for details on the NFP
Features:
recommendations).
• Separate sensors to
For CO larms, the National Fire Protection ssociation (NFP )
detect smoke and CO;
recommends that a CO larm should be centrally located outside of
the two alarm systems
each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms.
work independently
For added protection, install additional CO larms in each separate
• Sealed-In Lithium
bedroom, and on every level of your home.
Battery — Sealed-in
NOTE: For added protection, install an additional Smoke/CO larm at
lithium power supply;
least 15 feet (4.6 meters) away from the furnace or fuel burning heat
no battery replacement
source where possible. In smaller homes or in manufactured homes
required over the 10
where this distance cannot be maintained, install the larm as far away
year life of the alarm.
as possible from the furnace or other fuel burning source. Installing the
UL STD 217
larm closer than 15 feet (4.6 meters) will not harm the larm, but may
CONFORMS TO Model PC910
ND increase the frequency of unwanted alarms.
UL STD 2034
In general, install combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide
larms:
IMPORT NT! PLE SE RE D C REFULLY ND S VE.
• On every level of your home, including finished attics and basements.
This user's manual contains important information about your
Combination Carbon Monoxide & Smoke larm's operation. • Inside every bedroom, especially if people sleep with the door partly
or completely closed.
If you are installing this larm for use by others, you must leave
this manual—or a copy of it—with the end user. • In the hall near every sleeping area. If your home has multiple
sleeping areas, install a unit in each. If a hall is more than 40 feet
M08-0407-007 K1 02/14 Printed in Mexico (12 meters) long, install a unit at each end.
• t the top of first-to-second floor stairs.
Para el manual del usuario en español,
• t the bottom of the basement stairs.
por favor visite www.firstalert.com.
• For additional coverage, install larms in all rooms, halls, and storage
areas, where temperatures normally remain between 40˚ F and
100˚ F (4.4˚ C and 37.8˚ C).
TABLE OF CONTENTS
RECOMMENDED PLACEMENT
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Fire Safety Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Basic Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3
Where to Install This larm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Where This larm Should NOT Be Installed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
How to Install This larm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Weekly Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Regular Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
If Your Smoke/CO larm Sounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-5
What To Do First–Identify The Type Of larm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
If the CO larm Sounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
If the Smoke larm Sounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Using the Silence Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-5
What You Need To Know bout CO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
What is CO? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 In new construction AC and AC/DC smoke alarms MUST
be interconnected to meet NFPA recommendations.
Symptoms of CO Poisoning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Potential Sources of CO in the Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
• When installing on the wall, the top edge of Smoke larms should
How Can I Protect My Family From CO Poisoning? . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 be placed between 4 inches (102 mm) and 12 inches (305 mm)
from the wall/ceiling line.
Regulatory Information For Smoke/CO larms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-7
Regulatory Information for CO larms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 • When installing on the ceiling, place the alarm as close to the
Regulatory Information for Smoke larms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 center as possible.
Recommended Locations for Smoke larms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 • In either case, install at least 4 inches (102 mm) from where the
bout Smoke larms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
wall and ceiling meet. See " voiding Dead ir Spaces" for more
Special Compliance Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 information.
General Limitations Of Smoke/CO larms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-9
NOTE: For any location, make sure no door or other obstruction could
Troubleshooting Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-9 keep carbon monoxide or smoke from reaching the larm.
Limited Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-9
Installing Smoke/CO larms in Mobile Homes
For minimum security install one Smoke/CO larm as close to each
© 2014 BRK Brands, Inc. ll rights reserved.
sleeping area as possible. For more security, put one unit in each room.
Distributed by BRK Brands, Inc.
Many older mobile homes (especially those built before 1978) have little
3901 Liberty Street Road, urora, IL 60504-8122
or no insulation. If your mobile home is not well insulated, or if you are
Consumer ffairs: (800) 323-9005 • www.firstalert.com
unsure of the amount of insulation, it is important to install units on
inside walls only.
ll BRK ® and First lert ® Smoke larms conform to regulatory
requirements, including UL217 and are designed to detect particles
of combustion. Smoke particles of varying number and size are
WHERE THIS ALARM SHOULD NOT BE INSTALLED
produced in all fires.
Do NOT locate this Smoke/CO larm:
Ionization technology is generally more sensitive than photo-
electric technology at detecting small particles, which tend to • In garages, furnace rooms, crawl spaces and unfinished attics.
be produced in greater amounts by flaming fires, which con- void extremely dusty, dirty or greasy areas.
sume combustible materials rapidly and spread quickly. Sources of
• Where combustion particles are produced. Combustion particles
these fires may include paper burning in a wastebasket, or a grease
form when something burns. reas to avoid include poorly ventilated
fire in the kitchen.
kitchens, garages, and furnace rooms. Keep units at least 20 feet
Photoelectric technology is generally more sensitive than (6 meters) from the sources of combustion particles (stove, furnace,
ionization technology at detecting large particles, which tend to water heater, space heater) if possible. In areas where a 20-foot
be produced in greater amounts by smoldering fires, which may
(6 meter) distance is not possible – in modular, mobile, or smaller
smolder for hours before bursting into flame. Sources of these fires may
homes, for example – it is recommended the Smoke larm be
include cigarettes burning in couches or bedding. placed as far from these fuel-burning sources as possible. The
placement recommendations are intended to keep these larms at
For maximum protection, use both types of Smoke larms on
a reasonable distance from a fuel-burning source, and thus reduce
each level and in every bedroom of your home.
"unwanted" alarms. Unwanted alarms can occur if a Smoke/CO
larm is placed directly next to a fuel-burning source. Ventilate
these areas as much as possible.
INTRODUCTION
• Within 5 feet (1.5 meters) of any cooking appliance. In air streams
FIRE SAFETY TIPS
near kitchens. ir currents can draw cooking smoke into the smoke
Follow safety rules and prevent hazardous situations: 1) Use smoking sensor and cause unwanted alarms.
materials properly. Never smoke in bed. 2) Keep matches or lighters
• In extremely humid areas. This larm should be at least 10 feet
away from children; 3) Store flammable materials in proper containers;
(3 meters) from a shower, sauna, humidifier, vaporizer, dishwasher,
4) Keep electrical appliances in good condition and don't overload
laundry room, utility room, or other source of high humidity.
electrical circuits; 5) Keep stoves, barbecue grills, fireplaces and
• In direct sunlight.
chimneys grease- and debris-free; 6) Never leave anything cooking
on the stove unattended; 7) Keep portable heaters and open flames,
• In turbulent air, like near ceiling fans or open windows. Blowing air
like candles, away from flammable materials; 8) Don't let rubbish
may prevent CO or smoke from reaching the sensors.
accumulate.
• In areas where temperature is colder than 40˚ F (4.4˚ C) or hotter
Keep alarms clean, and test them weekly. Replace alarms immediately than 100˚ F (37.8˚ C). These areas include non-airconditioned crawl
if they are not working properly. Smoke larms that do not work cannot spaces, unfinished attics, uninsulated or poorly insulated ceilings,
alert you to a fire. Keep at least one working fire extinguisher on every porches, and garages.
floor, and an additional one in the kitchen. Have fire escape ladders or
• In insect infested areas. Insects can clog the openings to the
other reliable means of escape from an upper floor in case stairs are
sensing chamber.
blocked.
• Less than 12 inches (305 mm) away from fluorescent lights.
Electrical "noise" can interfere with the sensor.
BASIC SAFETY INFORMATION
• In "dead air" spaces. See " voiding Dead ir Spaces".
• Dangers, Warnings, and Cautions alert you to important
VOIDING DE D IR SP CES
operating instructions or to potentially hazardous situations.
Pay special attention to these items.
"Dead air" spaces may prevent smoke from reaching the Smoke/CO
• This Smoke/CO larm is approved for use in single-family larm. To avoid dead air spaces, follow installation recommendations
below.
residences. It is NOT designed for marine or RV use.
On ceilings, install Smoke/CO larms as close to the center of the
ceiling as possible. If this is not possible, install the Smoke/CO larm
• This combination Smoke/Carbon Monoxide larm has two
at least 4 inches (102 mm) from the wall or corner.
separate alarms. The CO larm is not designed to detect fire
or any other gas. It will only indicate the presence of carbon For wall mounting (if allowed by building codes), the top edge of
monoxide gas at the sensor. Carbon monoxide gas may be Smoke/CO larms should be placed between 4 inches (102 mm) and
present in other areas. The Smoke larm will only indicate 12 inches (305 mm) from the wall/ceiling line, below typical "dead air"
spaces.
the presence of smoke that reaches the sensor. The Smoke
larm is not designed to sense gas, heat or flames.
On a peaked, gabled, or cathedral ceiling, install first Smoke/CO
larm within 3 feet (0.9 meters) of the peak of the ceiling, measured
horizontally. dditional Smoke/CO larms may be required depending
• This unit will not operate without battery power. The
on the length, angle, etc. of the ceiling's slope. Refer to NFP 72 for
Smoke/CO larm cannot work until you activate the battery
details on requirements for sloped or peaked ceilings.
power pack.
• NEVER ignore any alarm. See "If Your Smoke/CO larm
Sounds" for more information on how to respond to an
alarm. Failure to respond can result in injury or death.
• The Silence Features are for your convenience only and will
not correct a problem. See "Using the Silence Features" for
details. lways check your home for a potential problem
after any alarm. Failure to do so can result in injury or death.
• Test this Smoke/CO larm once a week. If the larm ever fails
to test correctly, have it replaced immediately! If the larm is
not working properly, it cannot alert you to a problem.
• This product is intended for use in ordinary indoor locations
of family living units. It is not designed to measure CO levels
in compliance with Occupational Safety and Health
dministration (OSH ) commercial or industrial standards.
Individuals with medical conditions that may make them
more sensitive to carbon monoxide may consider using
warning devices which provide audible and visual signals for
carbon monoxide concentrations under 30 ppm. For addi-
tional information on carbon monoxide and your medical
condition contact your physician.
1
HOW TO INSTALL THIS ALARM
This combination Smoke/CO larm was designed to be mounted
on the ceiling or wall. It is not a tabletop device. You must install this
device on the ceiling or wall as outlined below. Read "Where To Install
This larm" before starting.
Tools you will need: pencil, drill with 3/16" or 5mm drill bit,
flathead screwdriver, hammer.
• Do not connect this unit to any other alarm or auxiliary device.
SUGGESTED AREAS FOR INSTALLING
It is a single-station unit that cannot be linked to other devices.
SMOKE ALARMS, CO ALARMS, AND COMBO UNITS
Connecting anything else to this unit may prevent it from work-
ing properly.
KEY:
• Do not install this unit over an electrical junction box. ir
SMOKE ALARMS
currents around junction boxes can prevent smoke from
SMOKE ALARM WITH reaching the sensing chamber and prevent the unit from
SILENCE FEATURE
alarming. Only C powered units are intended for installation
CO ALARMS over junction boxes.
BOTH, OR COMBINATION
SMOKE/CO ALARMS NOTE: Be sure to mount the product in the orientation specified in
the next steps as this provides the most stability for mounting the
Suggested locations are based on
NFPA recommendations (NFPA 72 product to the wall or ceiling.
for Smoke Alarms and NFPA 720 for
Carbon Monoxide Alarms). Always
refer to national and local codes
FOLLOW THESE SIMPLE STEPS:
before beginning any installation.
1. Turn alarm upside down so the circular
shape is located in the upper left corner of
the alarm.
2. If mounting bracket is attached to alarm, lift
to separate it from the base.
3. Hold the mounting bracket against the
ceiling (or wall) so the arrow located on
the mounting plate is pointing to the left.
(The circular shape will now be in upper
right-hand corner). Trace around the
insides of the mounting slots.
4. Put the unit where it won't get covered
with dust when you drill the mounting
holes.
5. Using a 3/16" (5 mm) drill bit, drill a hole through the center of the
oval outlines you traced in step #3.
6. Insert the plastic screw anchors (in the plastic bag with screws) into
the holes. Tap the screw anchors gently with a hammer, if necessary,
until they are flush with the ceiling or wall.
7. Line the mounting bracket up over the plastic screw anchors.
Screw the mounting bracket to the ceiling or wall through the
mounting slots using the two screws provided.
8. ctivate the battery. Move the activation switch to
"ON" position against tab stop. Unit will not mount
on mounting bracket unless activated. Once unit is
activated, it cannot be turned off.
NOTE: fter you activate the battery, the power indicator light may
flash. (If the unit alarms, the light will blink rapidly, and the horn will
repeatedly sound 3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps.)
9. ttach the Smoke/CO larm to the
mounting bracket. Hold alarm as
shown in diagram. Place alarm on
mounting bracket and slide to the
right until locked into place.
NOTE: Once the Smoke/CO larm is
snapped onto the mounting bracket,
you can rotate the Smoke/CO larm to
adjust the alignment.
10. Test the Smoke/CO larm. See "Weekly Testing."
11. fter 10 years of operation or Low Battery
warning, deactivate the larm: Insert a tool
DEACTIVATE
below edge where shown and break tab.
Then slide activation switch to DE CTIV TE mode.
NOTE: t end of life or low battery indication (chirp): unit must be
put in to deactivation mode to deactivate remaining stored energy
in battery. Unit will no longer function once put into this mode.
Unit will resist re-mounting.
WEEKLY TESTING
• NEVER use an open flame of any kind to test this unit. You
might accidentally damage or set fire to the unit or to your
home. The built-in test switch accurately tests the unit's
operation as required by Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (UL).
NEVER use vehicle exhaust! Exhaust may cause permanent
damage and voids your warranty.
• DO NOT stand close to the alarm when the horn is sounding.
Exposure at close range may be harmful to your hearing. When
testing, step away when horn starts sounding.
It is important to test this unit every week to make sure it is working
properly. Using the test button is the recommended way to test this
Smoke/CO larm.
You can test this Smoke/CO larm: Press and hold the Test/Silence
button 3-5 seconds until unit starts to alarm. During testing, you will
see and hear the following sequence:
• The Horn will sound 3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps. The LED flashes
Red.
• Next the Horn will sound 4 beeps, pause, 4 beeps. The LED
flashes Red.
If the unit does not alarm, make sure it has been activated
correctly, and test again. If the unit still does not alarm, replace
it immediately.
2
REGULAR MAINTENANCE
This unit has been designed to be as maintenance free as possible, but
there are a few simple things you must do to keep it working properly.
• Test it at least once a week.
• Clean the Smoke/CO larm at least once a month; gently vacuum
the outside of the Smoke/CO larm using your household vacuum's
soft brush attachment. can of clean compressed air (sold at
P RTS OF THIS SMOKE/CO L RM
computer or office supply stores) may also be used. Follow
manufacturer instructions for use. Test the Smoke/CO larm. Never
use water, cleaners or solvents since they may damage the unit.
1 Test/Silence Button
• If the Smoke/CO larm becomes contaminated by excessive dirt,
2 Power/Smoke larm and
dust and/or grime, and cannot be cleaned to avoid unwanted
CO larm LED
alarms, replace the unit immediately.
• Relocate the unit if it sounds frequent unwanted alarms. See
"Where This larm Should Not Be Installed" for details.
ctual battery service life depends on the Smoke/CO larm and the
environment in which it is installed. Regardless of the manufacturer's
suggested battery life, you MUST replace the larm immediately once
the unit starts "chirping" (the "low battery warning").
1 Mounting bracket
2 Mounting slots
IF YOUR SMOKE/CO ALARM SOUNDS
WHAT TO DO FIRST–IDENTIFY THE TYPE OF ALARM
Type of larm What You See and Hear
Carbon Monoxide (CO) CO LED: Flashes Red
Horn: 4 beeps, pause, 4 beeps,
Smoke Smoke LED: Flashes Red
Horn: 3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps,
IF THE CO ALARM SOUNDS
" L RM-MOVE TO FRESH IR"
If you hear the CO alarm horn and the CO red light is flashing,
move everyone to a source of fresh air.
DO NOT deactivate the alarm!
ctuation of your CO larm indicates the presence of carbon
monoxide (CO) which can kill you. In other words, when your CO
larm sounds, you must not ignore it!
IF THE CO L RM SIGN L SOUNDS:
1. Press the Test/Silence button.
2. Call your emergency services, fire department or 911. Write down
the number of your local emergency service here:
____________________________________________________________
3. Immediately move to fresh air—outdoors or by an open door or
window. Do a head count to check that all persons are accounted
for. Do not re-enter the premises, or move away from the open door
or window until the emergency services responder has arrived, the
premises have been aired out, and your CO larm remains in its
normal condition.
4. fter following steps 1-3, if your CO larm reactivates within a
24-hour period, repeat steps 1-3 and call a qualified appliance
technician to investigate for sources of CO from fuel-burning
equipment and appliances, and inspect for proper operation of this
equipment. If problems are identified during this inspection have the
equipment serviced immediately. Note any combustion equipment
not inspected by the technician, and consult the manufacturers'
instructions, or contact the manufacturers directly, for more
information about CO safety and this equipment. Make sure that
motor vehicles are not, and have not, been operating in an attached
garage or adjacent to the residence. Write down the number of a
qualified appliance technician here:
____________________________________________________________
NOTE: qualified appliance technician is defined as "a person, firm,
corporation, or company that either in person or through a representa-
tive, is engaged in and responsible for the installation, testing, servicing,
or replacement of heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HV C) equipment,
combustion appliances and equipment, and/or gas fireplaces or other
decorative combustion equipment."
IF THE SMOKE ALARM SOUNDS
RESPONDING TO N L RM
ON DEACTIVATE
• If the unit alarms and you are not testing the unit, it is warning
you of a potentially dangerous situation that requires your
immediate attention. NEVER ignore any alarm. Ignoring the
alarm may result in injury or death.
• Never remove the batteries from a battery operated Smoke/CO
larm to stop an unwanted alarm (caused by cooking smoke,
etc.). Removing batteries disables the alarm so it cannot sense
smoke, and removes your protection. Instead open a window
or fan the smoke away from the unit. The alarm will reset auto-
matically.
• If the unit alarms get everyone out of the house immediately.
WH T TO DO IN C SE OF FIRE
• Don't panic; stay calm. Follow your family escape plan.
• Get out of the house as quickly as possible. Don't stop to get
dressed or collect anything.
• Feel doors with the back of your hand before opening them. If a
door is cool, open it slowly. Don't open a hot door. Keep doors
and windows closed, unless you must escape through them.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a cloth (preferably damp).
Take short, shallow breaths.
• Meet at your planned meeting place outside your home, and
do a head count to make sure everybody got out safely.
• Call the Fire Department as soon as possible from outside.
Give your address, then your name.
• Never go back inside a burning building for any reason.
• Contact your Fire Department for ideas on making your home
safer.
larms have various limitations. See "General Limitations of
Smoke/CO larms" for details.
USING THE SILENCE FEATURES
Never deactivate the unit to quiet an unwanted alarm. Deactivating
the alarm disables the unit and removes your protection.
The Silence Feature is intended to temporarily silence the horn while
you identify and correct the problem. Do not use the Silence Feature in
emergency situations. It will not correct a CO problem or extinguish a
fire.
The Silence Feature can temporarily quiet an unwanted alarm for several
minutes. Press the Test/Silence button on the alarm cover for at least
3-5 seconds.
fter the Test/Silence button is released, the Red LED blinks during the
silence mode.
When the Smoke larm is When the CO larm is Silenced
Silenced
T he Smoke larm will remain The CO larm will remain silent
silent for up to 15 minutes, then for up to 4 minutes.
return to normal operation.
If the smoke has not cleared–or
remain potentially dangerous the
continues to increase–the device horn will start sounding again.
will go back into alarm.
3 4
SILENCING THE LOW BATTERY WARNING
This silence feature can temporarily quiet the low battery warning
"chirp" for up to 8 hours. Press the Test/Silence button on the alarm
cover.
Once the low battery warning "chirp" silence feature is activated, the
unit continues to flash the Green light once a minute for 8 hours. fter
8 hours, the low battery "chirp" will resume. Replace the larm as
soon as possible; this unit will not operate without battery power!
To deactivate this feature: Press the Test/Silence button again. The
unit will go into Test Mode and the low battery warning will resume
(LED flashes and unit sounds "chirp" once a minute).
SILENCING THE END OF LIFE SIGNAL
This silence feature can temporarily quiet the End of Life warning
"chirp" for up to 2 days. You can silence the End of Life warning "chirp"
by pressing the Test/Silence button. The horn will chirp, acknowledging
that the End of Life silence feature has been activated.
fter approximately 2 days, the End of Life "chirp" will resume.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CO
WHAT IS CO?
CO is an invisible, odorless, tasteless gas produced when fossil fuels
do not burn completely, or are exposed to heat (usually fire). Electrical
appliances typically do not produce CO.
These fuels include: Wood, coal, charcoal, oil, natural gas, gasoline,
kerosene, and propane.
Common appliances are often sources of CO. If they are not properly
maintained, are improperly ventilated, or malfunction, CO levels can
pause
rise quickly. CO is a real danger now that homes are more energy
efficient. " ir-tight" homes with added insulation, sealed windows,
and other weatherproofing
can "trap" CO inside.
pause
SYMPTOMS OF CO POISONING
These symptoms are related to CO POISONING and should be
discussed with LL household members.
Mild Exposure: Slight headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue ("flu-like"
symptoms).
Medium Exposure: Throbbing headache, drowsiness, confusion, fast
heart rate.
Extreme Exposure: Convulsions, unconsciousness, heart and lung
failure. Exposure to Carbon Monoxide can cause brain damage, death.
This CO larm measures exposure to CO over time. It alarms if CO
levels are extremely high in a short period of time, or if CO levels reach
a certain minimum over a long period of time. The CO larm generally
sounds an alarm before the onset of symptoms in average, healthy
adults. Why is this important? Because you need to be warned of a
potential CO problem while you can still react in time. In many reported
cases of CO exposure, victims may be aware that they are not feeling
well, but become disoriented and can no longer react well enough to
exit the building or get help. lso, young children and pets may be the
first affected. The average healthy adult might not feel any symptoms
when the CO larm sounds. However, people with cardiac or respiratory
problems, infants, unborn babies, pregnant mothers, or elderly people
can be more quickly and severely affected by CO. If you experience
even mild symptoms of CO poisoning, consult your doctor immediately!
FINDING THE SOURCE OF CO AFTER AN ALARM
Carbon monoxide is an odorless, invisible gas, which often makes it
difficult to locate the source of CO after an alarm. These are a few of
the factors that can make it difficult to locate sources of CO:
• House well ventilated before the investigator arrives.
• Problem caused by "backdrafting."
• Transient CO problem caused by special circumstances.
Because CO may dissipate by the time an investigator arrives, it may
be difficult to locate the source of CO. BRK Brands, Inc. shall not be
obligated to pay for any carbon monoxide investigation or service
call.
POTENTIAL SOURCES OF CO IN THE HOME
Fuel-burning appliances like:
portable heater, gas or wood burning
fireplace, gas kitchen range or cook-
top, gas clothes dryer.
Damaged or insufficient venting:
corroded or disconnected water heater
vent pipe, leaking chimney pipe or flue,
or cracked heat exchanger, blocked or
clogged chimney opening.
Improper use of appliance/device:
operating a barbecue grill or vehicle
in an enclosed area (like a garage or
screened porch).
Transient CO Problems: "transient" or on-again-off-again CO problems
can be caused by outdoor conditions and other special circumstances.
The following conditions can result in transient CO situations:
1. Excessive spillage or reverse venting of fuel appliances caused by
outdoor conditions such as:
• Wind direction and/or velocity, including high, gusty winds. Heavy
air in the vent pipes (cold/humid air with extended periods
between cycles).
• Negative pressure differential resulting from the use of exhaust
fans.
• Several appliances running at the same time competing for limit-
ed fresh air.
• Vent pipe connections vibrating loose from clothes dryers, fur-
naces, or water heaters.
• Obstructions in or unconventional vent pipe designs which can
amplify the above situations.
2. Extended operation of unvented fuel burning devices (range, oven,
fireplace).
3. Temperature inversions, which can trap exhaust close to the
ground.
4. Car idling in an open or closed attached garage, or near a home.
These conditions are dangerous because they can trap exhaust in your
home. Since these conditions can come and go, they are also hard to
recreate during a CO investigation.
HOW CAN I PROTECT MY FAMILY FROM
CO POISONING?
CO larm is an excellent means of protection. It monitors the air
and sounds a loud alarm before Carbon Monoxide levels become
threatening for average, healthy adults.
CO larm is not a substitute for proper maintenance of home
appliances.
To help prevent CO problems and reduce the risk of CO poisoning:
• Clean chimneys and flues yearly. Keep them free of debris,
leaves, and nests for proper air flow. lso, have a professional
check for rust and corrosion, cracks, or separations. These con-
ditions can prevent proper air movement and cause backdrafting.
Never "cap" or cover a chimney in any way that would block air
flow.
• Test and maintain all fuel-burning equipment annually. Many
local gas or oil companies and HV C companies offer appliance
inspections for a nominal fee.
• Make regular visual inspections of all fuel-burning appliances.
Check appliances for excessive rust and scaling. lso check the
flame on the burner and pilot lights. The flame should be blue.
yellow flame means fuel is not being burned completely and CO
may be present. Keep the blower door on the furnace closed.
Use vents or fans when they are available on all fuel-burning
appliances. Make sure appliances are vented to the outside. Do
not grill or barbecue indoors, or in garages or on screen porches.
fter 4 minutes, if CO levels
• Check for exhaust backflow from CO sources. Check the draft
hood on an operating furnace for a backdraft. Look for cracks on
furnace heat exchangers.
• Check the house or garage on the other side of shared wall.
Continued... • Keep windows and doors open slightly. If you suspect that CO
is escaping into your home, open a window or a door. Opening
windows and doors can significantly decrease CO levels.
In addition, familiarize yourself with all enclosed materials. Read
this manual in its entirety, and make sure you understand what to
do if your CO larm sounds.
5
REGULATORY INFORMATION FOR
SMOKE/CO ALARMS
REGULATORY INFORMATION FOR CO ALARMS
WH T LEVELS OF CO C USE N L RM?
Underwriters Laboratories Inc. Standard UL2034 requires residential
CO larms to sound when exposed to levels of CO and exposure times
as described below. They are measured in parts per million (ppm) of
CO over time (in minutes).
UL2034 Required larm Points*:
• If the alarm is exposed to 400 ppm of CO, IT MUST L RM
BETWEEN 4 and 15 MINUTES.
• If the alarm is exposed to 150 ppm of CO, IT MUST L RM
BETWEEN 10 and 50 MINUTES.
• If the alarm is exposed to 70 ppm if CO, IT MUST L RM
BETWEEN
60 and 240 MINUTES.
* pproximately 10% COHb exposure at levels of 10% to 95% Relative
Humidity (RH).
The unit is designed not to alarm when exposed to a constant level
of 30 ppm for 30 days.
CO larms are designed to alarm before there is an immediate life
threat. Since you cannot see or smell CO, never assume it's not present.
• n exposure to 100 ppm of CO for 20 minutes may not affect
average, healthy adults, but after 4 hours the same level may cause
headaches.
• n exposure to 400 ppm of CO may cause headaches in average,
healthy adults after 35 minutes, but can cause death after 2 hours.
Standards: Underwriters Laboratories Inc. Single and Multiple Station
carbon monoxide alarms UL2034.
ccording to Underwriters Laboratories Inc. UL2034, Section 1-1.2:
"Carbon monoxide alarms covered by these requirements are intended
to respond to the presence of carbon monoxide from sources such as,
but not limited to, exhaust from internal-combustion engines, abnormal
operation of fuel-fired appliances, and fireplaces. CO larms are intended
to alarm at carbon monoxide levels below those that could cause a loss
of ability to react to the dangers of Carbon Monoxide exposure." This
CO larm monitors the air at the larm, and is designed to alarm before
CO levels become life threatening. This allows you precious time to
leave the house and correct the problem. This is only possible if larms
are located, installed, and maintained as described in this manual.
Gas Detection at Typical Temperature and Humidity Ranges: The
CO larm is not formulated to detect CO levels below 30 ppm typically.
UL tested for false alarm resistance to Methane (500 ppm), Butane (300
ppm), Heptane (500 ppm), Ethyl cetate (200 ppm), Isopropyl lcohol
(200 ppm) and Carbon Dioxide (5000 ppm). Values measure gas and
vapor concentrations in parts per million.
udible larm: 85 dB minimum at 10 feet (3 meters).
REGULATORY INFORMATION FOR SMOKE ALARMS
RECOMMENDED LOCATIONS FOR SMOKE ALARMS
Installing Smoke larms in Single-Family Residences
The National Fire Protection ssociation (NFP ), recommends one
Smoke larm on every floor, in every sleeping area, and in every bed-
room. In new construction, the Smoke larms must be C powered
and interconnected. See " gency Placement Recommendations" for
details. For additional coverage, it is recommended that you install a
Smoke larm in all rooms, halls, storage areas, finished attics, and
basements, where temperatures normally remain between 40˚ F (4.4˚ C)
and 100˚ F (37.8˚ C). Make sure no door or other obstruction could
keep smoke from reaching the Smoke larms.
More specifically, install Smoke larms:
• On every level of your home, including finished attics and basements.
• Inside every bedroom, especially if people sleep with the door partly
or completely closed.
• In the hall near every sleeping area. If your home has multiple
sleeping areas, install a unit in each. If a hall is more than 40 feet
long (12 meters), install a unit at each end.
• t the top of the first-to-second floor stairway, and at the bottom of
the basement stairway.
Specific requirements for Smoke larm installation vary from state to
state and from region to region. Check with your local Fire Department
for current requirements in your area. It is recommended C or C/DC
units be interconnected for added protection.
AGENCY PLACEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS
Standards: Underwriters Laboratories Inc. Single and Multiple Station
Smoke larms 217.
NFP 72 Chapter 29
"For your information, the National Fire larm and Signaling Code,
NFP 72, reads as follows:"
29.5.1* Required Detection.
29.5.1.1* Where required by other governing laws, codes, or standards
for a specific type of occupancy, approved single and multiple-station
smoke alarms shall be installed as follows:
(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, with the distance measured
along a 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)
(Reprinted with permission from NFP 72 ® , National Fire larm and
Signaling Code Copyright © 2010 National Fire Protection ssociation,
Quincy, M 02269. This reprinted material is not the complete and
official position of the National Fire Protection ssociation, on the
referenced subject which is represented only by the standard in its
entirety), (National Fire larm and Signaling Code ® and NFP 72 ® are
registered trademarks of the National Fire Protection ssociation, Inc.,
Quincy, M 02269).
California State Fire Marshal (CSFM)
Early warning detection is best achieved by the installation of fire
detection equipment in all rooms and areas of the household as follows:
Smoke larm installed in each separate sleeping area (in the vicinity,
but outside bedrooms), and Heat or Smoke larms in the living rooms,
dining rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, hallways, finished attics, furnace
rooms, closets, utility and storage rooms, basements, and attached
garages.
6