First Alert SA520 User Manual

USER'S MANUAL
This Smoke Alarm is designed to be mounted on any standard wiring junction box up to a 4-inch (10 cm) size, on either the ceiling or wall (if allowed by local codes).
Read "Recommended Locations For Smoke Alarms" and "Locations to Avoid For Smoke Alarms" before you begin installation.
WIRELESS INTERCONNECT AC POWERED Tools you will need: • Needle-nose pliers • Standard Flathead screwdriver • Phillips screwdriver.
SMOKE ALARM WITH BATTERY BACK-UP
Make sure the Alarm is not receiving excessively noisy power. Examples of noisy power could be major appliances on the same
circuit, power from a generator or solar power, light dimmer on the same circuit or mounted near fluorescent lighting. Excessively noisy power may
cause damage to your Alarm.
The Mounting Bracket:
To remove the mounting bracket from the Smoke
Alarm base, hold the Smoke Alarm base firmly
~
and twist the mounting bracket counterclockwise.
Input: 120V AC ,
The mounting bracket installs onto the junction box.
60Hz, 0.09A
It has a variety of screw slots to fit most boxes.
The Power Connector:
IMPORTANT! The power connector plugs into a power input block on
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY AND SAVE. the Smoke Alarm. It supplies the unit with AC power.
This user's manual contains important information about your • The black wire is "hot."
Smoke Alarm's operation. If you are installing this Smoke Alarm for use by
• The white wire is neutral.
others, you must leave this manual—or a copy of it—with the end user.
• The orange wire is used for interconnect.
If you need to remove the power connector, turn
Printed in Mexico M Model POWER OFF first. Insert a flat screwdriver blade
M08-0149-008 Q SA520
U D between the power connector and the security tab
05/15
inside the power input block. Gently pry back the tab
and pull the connector free.
QUICK INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
© 2015 BRK Brands, Inc. All rights reserved.
Distributed by BRK Brands, Inc. Easily expand an existing interconnected 120V AC hardwired system by
3901 Liberty Street Road, Aurora, IL 60504-8122 simply replacing one Alarm in the series with the First Alert® Model SA520.
Consumer Affairs: (800) 323-9005 • www.firstalert.com Then add additional battery-operated Alarms to expand the system with no
additional electrical work.
All First Alert and BRK Smoke Alarms conform to regulatory 1. Insert the batteries into the battery
® ®
drawer of the first Alarm and close
requirements, including UL217 and are designed to detect particles of
the drawer.
combustion. Smoke particles of varying number and size are produced
in all fires. 2. The Alarm will sound with a chirp.
3. If you purchased the Talking Smoke
Ionization technology is generally more sensitive than photoelectric
and Carbon Monoxide Alarm, you
technology at detecting small particles, which tend to be produced will now be prompted to set the
in greater amounts by flaming fires, which consume combustible Alarm's location. Follow the direction
materials rapidly and spread quickly. Sources of these fires may include given by the Alarm.
NOTE: Steps 4 through 6 need to be completed within two minutes.
paper burning in a wastebasket, or a grease fire in the kitchen.
If more than two minutes pass, the Green power LED will stop
Photoelectric technology is generally more sensitive than ionization blinking. Simply open the battery drawer of the second Alarm
technology at detecting large particles, which tend to be produced and repeat steps 4 through 6.
in greater amounts by smoldering fires, which may smolder for hours 4. Insert the batteries into the battery drawer of the next Alarm. DO NOT
before bursting into flame. Sources of these fires may include cigarettes
CLOSE THE DRAWER.
burning in couches or bedding.
5. Press and hold the test button and then close the battery drawer.
For maximum protection, use both types of Smoke Alarms on each
6. Once you hear the unit chirp, release the test button. The Green power
level and in every bedroom of your home.
LED will start to blink indicating the WIRELESS INTERCONNECT Alarm
is waiting for
program data from one of the other setup WIRELESS INTERCONNECT
Alarms.
FIRE SAFETY TIPS 7. Press and hold the test button on the first Alarm, until the second Alarm
chirps and its Green power LED stops blinking. Then release
Follow safety rules and prevent hazardous situations: 1) Use smoking the test button.
materials properly. Never smoke in bed. 2) Keep matches or lighters away
8. If you purchased the Talking Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm, you
from children; 3) Store flammable materials in proper containers; 4) Keep will now be prompted to set the Alarm's location. Follow the directions
electrical appliances in good condition and don't overload electrical circuits; given by the Alarm.
5) Keep stoves, barbecue grills, fireplaces and chimneys grease- and debris-
9. If you have purchased the hardwired battery back-up WIRELESS
free; 6) Never leave anything cooking on the stove unattended; 7) Keep por- INTERCONNECT Alarm, you can now connect the hardwired Alarm by
table heaters and open flames, like candles, away from flammable installing the three-wire connector on the ceiling to the Alarm.
materials; 8) Don't let rubbish accumulate.
10. Repeat steps 4-9 for additional WIRELESS INTERCONNECT Alarms.
You have now successfully linked your new WIRELESS INTERCONNECT
Keep alarms clean, and test them weekly. Replace alarms immediately if
Alarms. To add additional Alarms at a later time, follow steps 4 through 9.
they are not working properly. Smoke Alarms that do not work cannot alert
you to a fire. Keep at least one working fire extinguisher on every floor, and
an additional one in the kitchen. Have fire escape ladders or other reliable
means of escape from an upper floor in case stairs are blocked.
FOLLOW THESE INSTALLATION STEPS
The basic installation of this Smoke Alarm is similar whether you want to
BEFORE YOU INSTALL THIS SMOKE ALARM install one Smoke Alarm, or interconnect more than one Smoke Alarm.
If you are interconnecting more than one Smoke Alarm, you MUST read
IMPORTANT! Read "Recommended Locations for Smoke Alarms" and
"Special Requirements For Interconnected Smoke Alarms" below before
"Locations to Avoid for Smoke Alarms" before beginning. This unit monitors
you begin installation.
the air, and when smoke reaches its sensing chamber, it alarms. It can give
you more time to escape before fire spreads. This unit can ONLY give an
early warning of developing fires if it is installed, maintained and located ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD. Turn off power to the area where you
will install this unit at the circuit breaker or fuse box before beginning
where smoke can reach it, and where all residents can hear it, as described
in this manual. This unit will not sense gas, heat, or flame. It cannot prevent installation. Failure to turn off the power before installation may result
or extinguish fires. in serious electrical shock, injury or death.
Understand The Different Type of Smoke Alarms
1. Remove the mounting bracket from
the base, and attach it to the junction
Battery powered or electrical? Different Smoke Alarms provide different
box.
types of protection. See "About Smoke Alarms" for details.
2. Using wire nuts, connect the power
Know Where To Install Your Smoke Alarms
connector to the household wiring.
Fire Safety Professionals recommend at least one Smoke Alarm on
every level of your home, in every bedroom, and in every bedroom
STAND-ALONE ALARM ONLY:
hallway or separate sleeping area. See "Recommended Locations For
Smoke Alarms" and "Locations To Avoid For Smoke Alarms" for details.
• Connect the white wire on the power connector to the neutral wire in
the junction box.
Know What Smoke Alarms Can and Can't Do
• Connect the black wire on the power connector to the hot wire in the
A Smoke Alarm can help alert you to fire, giving you precious time to
junction box.
escape. It can only sound an alarm once smoke reaches the sensor.
• Tuck the orange wire inside the junction box. It is used for intercon-
See "Limitations of Smoke Alarms" for details.
nect only.
Check Your Local Building Codes
INTERCONNECTED UNITS ONLY:
This Smoke Alarm is designed to be used in a typical single-family home. It
Strip off about 1/2" (12 mm) of the plastic coating on the orange wire
alone will not meet requirements for boarding houses, apartment
on the power connector.
buildings, hotels or motels. See "Special Compliance Considerations" for details.
• Connect the white wire on the power connector to the neutral wire in
the junction box.
• Connect the black wire on the power connector to the hot wire in the
ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD. Turn off the power to the area where
junction box.
the Smoke Alarm is installed before removing it from the mounting
• Connect the orange wire on the power connector to the interconnect
bracket. Failure to turn off the power first may result in serious
wire in the junction box. Repeat for each unit you are interconnecting.
electrical shock, injury or death.
Never connect the hot or neutral wires in the junction box to the orange
interconnect wire. Never cross hot and neutral wires between Alarms.
• This unit will not alert hearing impaired residents. It is
3. Plug the power connector into the back of the Smoke Alarm.
recommended that you install special units which use devices
like flashing strobe lights to alert hearing impaired residents.
4. Position the base of the Smoke Alarm over the mounting bracket and
• Installation of this unit must conform to the electrical codes in turn. The Alarm can be positioned over the bracket every 90°. Turn the
Smoke Alarm clockwise (right) until the unit is in place.
your area; Articles 210 and 300.3 (B) of NFPA 70 (NEC), NFPA
72, NFPA 101; SBC (SBCCI); UBC (ICBO); NBC (BOCA); OTFDC
5. Check all connections.
(CABO), and any other local or building codes that may apply.
Wiring and installation must be performed by a licensed electrician.
Failure to follow these guidelines may result in injury or property Improper wiring of the power connector or the wiring leading to the
power connector will cause damage to the Alarm and may lead to a
damage.
non-functioning Alarm.
• This unit must be powered by a 24-hour, 120VAC pure sine wave
60Hz circuit. Be sure the circuit cannot be turned off by a switch,
dimmer, or ground fault circuit interrupter. Failure to connect this
unit to a 24-hour circuit may prevent it from providing constant
protection.
The locking features are designed to discourage unauthorized removal of the battery or Alarm. It is not necessary to activate the locks in single-family
• This Smoke Alarm must have AC or battery power to operate. households where unauthorized battery or Alarm removal is not a concern.
If the AC power fails, battery back-up will allow the alarm to
sound for at least 4 minutes. If AC power fails and the battery is These Smoke Alarms have two separate locking features: one to lock the battery compartment, and the other to lock the Smoke Alarm
to the mounting bracket. You can choose to use either feature independently, or use them both.
weak, protection should last for at least 7 days. If AC power fails
and the battery is dead or missing, the alarm cannot operate. Tools you will need: • Needle-nose pliers • Standard Flathead screwdriver.
• Never disconnect the power from an AC powered unit to stop an
Both locking features use locking pins, which are molded into the mounting bracket. Using needle-nose pliers, remove one or both pins
unwanted alarm. Doing so will disable the unit and remove your from the mounting bracket, depending on how many locking features you want to use.
protection. In the case of a true unwanted alarm open a window
or fan the smoke away from the unit. The alarm will reset auto-
To permanently remove either lock, insert a flathead screwdriver between the locking pin and the lock, and pry the pin out of the lock.
matically when it returns to normal operation. Never remove the
batteries from a battery operated unit to stop an unwanted alarm
(caused by cooking smoke, etc.). Instead open a window or fan
TO LOCK THE BATTERY COMPARTMENT
the smoke away from the unit. The alarm will reset automatically.
Do not lock the battery compartment until you have installed the
battery and tested the battery back-up.
• Connect this unit ONLY to other compatible units. See "How To
1. Push and hold Test/Silence button until the alarm sounds:
Install This Smoke Alarm" for details. Do not connect it to any 3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps, pause.
other type of alarm or auxiliary device. Connecting anything else
to this unit may damage it or prevent it from operating properly.
• This Smoke Alarm has a battery drawer which resists closing If the unit does not alarm during testing, DO NOT lock the battery
unless a battery is installed. This warns you the unit will not compartment! Install a new battery and test again. If the Smoke
operate under DC power without a battery. Alarm still does not alarm, replace it immediately.
• Do not stand too close to the unit when the alarm is sounding.
2. Using needle-nose pliers, detach one locking pin from the mounting
It is loud to wake you in an emergency. Exposure to the horn at
bracket.
close range may harm your hearing.
• Do not paint over the unit. Paint may clog the openings to the 3. Push the locking pin through the hole near the battery drawer on the
sensing chambers and prevent the unit from operating properly. back of the Smoke Alarm.
1
HOW TO INSTALL THIS SMOKE ALARM
THE PARTS OF THIS SMOKE ALARM
The Parts of This Unit
1 Mounting Bracket
2 Mounting Slots
3 Locking Pins (break out of bracket)
4 Hot (Black) AC Wire
5 Neutral (White) AC Wire
6 Interconnect (Orange) Wire
7 Quick-Connect Power Connector
8 Turn this way to remove from bracket
9 Turn this way to attach to bracket
10 Slide-Out Battery Drawer
INSTALLATION STEPS, Continued
STAND-ALONE ALARM ONLY:
• If you are only installing one Smoke Alarm, restore power to the
junction box.
INTERCONNECTED UNITS ONLY:
• If you are interconnecting multiple Smoke Alarms, repeat steps
1-5 for each Smoke Alarm in the series. When you are finished,
restore power to the junction box.
ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD. Do not restore power until all Smoke
Alarms are completely installed. Restoring power before installation is
complete may result in serious electrical shock, injury or death.
6. Make sure the Smoke Alarm is receiving AC power. Under normal
operation, the Green power indicator light will shine continuously.
7. If the Green power indicator light does not light, TURN OFF POWER
TO THE JUNCTION BOX and recheck all connections. If all connections
are correct and the Green power indicator still does not light when you
restore the power, the unit should be replaced immediately.
8. Test each Smoke Alarm. Press and hold the Test/Silence button until the
unit alarms. When testing a series of interconnected units you must
test each unit individually. Make sure all units alarm when each one
is tested.
If any unit in the series does not alarm, TURN OFF POWER and recheck
connections. If it does not alarm when you restore power, replace it
immediately.
Special Requirements For Interconnected Smoke Alarms
• Failure to meet any of the above requirements could damage the
units and cause them to malfunction, removing your protection.
• AC and AC/DC Smoke Alarms can be interconnected. Under AC
power, all units will alarm when one senses smoke. When power is
interrupted, only the AC/DC units in the series will continue to send
and receive signals. AC powered Smoke Alarms will not operate.
Interconnected units can provide earlier warning of fire than stand-alone
units, especially if a fire starts in a remote area of the dwelling. If any unit
in the series senses smoke, all units will alarm. To determine which Smoke
Alarm initiated an alarm, see table:
On Initiating Alarms Red LED flashes rapidly
On All Other Alarms Red LED is Off
Interconnect units within a single family residence only. Otherwise all house-
holds will experience unwanted alarms when you test any unit in the series.
Interconnected units will only work if they are wired to compatible units and
all requirements are met. This unit is designed to be compatible with:
First Alert ® Smoke Alarm Models SA4120, SA4121B, SA100B, 9120 series
and BRK Electronics Smoke Alarm Models 100S, 4120 series, 9120 series,
®
7010 series; BRK Electronics ® Heat Alarm Models HD6135F, HD6135FB;
Smoke/CO Alarm Models SC6120B, SC9120B; CO Alarm Model CO5120B;
Relay Modules RM3 and RM4.
Interconnected units must meet ALL of the following requirements:
• A maximum of 18 compatible units may be interconnected
(Maximum of 12 Smoke Alarms).
• The same fuse or circuit breaker must power all interconnected units.
• The total length of wire interconnecting the units should be less than
1000 feet (300 meters). This type of wire is commonly available at
Hardware and Electrical Supply stores.
• All wiring must conform to all local electrical codes and NFPA 70 (NEC).
Refer to NFPA 72, NFPA 101, and/or your local building code for
further connection requirements.
} }
A. Unswitched 120VAC B. To additional units; Maximum = 18 total
60 Hz source (Maximum 12 Smoke Alarms)
1. Smoke Alarm 4. Wire Nut 7. Interconnect Wire
(Orange)
2. Ceiling or Wall 5. Junction Box
8. Hot Wire (Blk)
3. Power Connector 6. Neutral Wire (Wht)
Continued above...
OPTIONAL LOCKING FEATURES
TO UNLOCK THE BATTERY COMPARTMENT
Once the Smoke Alarm is installed, you must disconnect it from the AC power
before unlocking the battery compartment.
ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD. Turn off the power to the area where the
Smoke Alarm is installed before removing it from the mounting bracket.
Failure to turn off the power first may result in serious electrical shock,
injury or death.
Always discharge the branch circuit before servicing an AC or AC/DC
Smoke Alarm. First, turn off the AC power at the circuit breaker or fuse box.
Next, remove the battery from Smoke Alarms with battery back-up. Finally,
press and hold the Test/Silence button for 5-10 seconds to discharge the
branch circuit.
1. Remove the Smoke Alarm from the mounting
bracket. If the unit is locked to the bracket, see
the section "To Unlock the Mounting Bracket."
2. Disconnect the power connector by gently prying
it away from the back of the Smoke Alarm.
3. Insert a flathead screwdriver under the head
of the locking pin, and gently pry it out of the
battery compartment lock. (If you plan to relock
the battery compartment, save the locking pin.)
4. To relock the battery compartment, close the
battery door and reinsert locking pin in lock.
5. Reconnect the power connector to the back of the Smoke Alarm, reattach
the Smoke Alarm to the mounting bracket, and restore the power.
When replacing the battery, always test the Smoke Alarm before relocking the
battery compartment.
2 3
WIRELESS OPERATION
UNDERSTANDING THE INDICATOR LIGHTS
First Alert ® WIRELESS INTERCONNECT Technology is the easy, cost-ef-
AND ALARM HORN PATTERNS
fective way to provide your family with whole-home safety. All WIRELESS
INTERCONNECT Alarms communicate with each other without wires or con-
All Models DC Power nectors. When one Alarm sounds, they all sound. This provides your family
with an earlier warning of potential danger,
AC Power
and gives you more time to react.
Normal Operation Constant Green LED Green LED Off
The communication distance (range) between any two WIRELESS
INTERCONNECT Alarms is typically 50 feet (15 meters) inside of a home.
No Audible Alarm No Audible Alarm
Some features of a home, such as the number of floors, number/size of
rooms, furniture and types of building materials used may reduce the range
Constant Green LED Green LED Off
Test Condition of the Alarms. Examples include:
suspended ceilings, ductwork, large metallic appliances (refrigerators) and
Rapidly Flashing Rapidly Flashing
metal studs. A feature of WIRELESS INTERCONNECT Alarms is that they
Red LED Red LED
operate as a mesh
network. All Alarms will repeat any alarm signal that is received to all other
Audible Alarm Audible Alarm
WIRELESS INTERCONNECT Alarms. Interference from structural conditions
can be overcome
Alarm Condition* Constant Green LED Green LED Off
by adding additional Alarms to route the wireless signal around obstructions.
(Initiating Unit)
Rapidly Flashing Rapidly Flashing
Red LED Red LED
• The range and proper operation of any wireless device will vary depending
Audible Alarm
Audible Alarm
on its surroundings. It is very important that each Alarm is tested individually
before and after installation to make sure that all Alarms respond properly.
Silence Mode Rapidly Flashing Rapidly Flashing
Red LED Red LED
• The WIRELESS INTERCONNECT Alarms are not to be used outdoors or
to transmit between buildings. The Alarms will not communicate properly
Alarm "chirp'' approx. Alarm "chirp'' approx.
Low Battery
under these conditions.
once/minute once/minute
• Metal objects and metallic wallpaper may interfere with signals from wire-
Malfunction 3 rapid "chirps" every 3 rapid "chirps" every
minute; LED flashes minute; LED flashes less Alarms. Alarms should be tested after changes to your home such as
remodeling, moving furniture, and with metal doors opened and closed.
approx. once a minute approx. once a minute
Your First Alert® WIRELESS INTERCONNECT Smoke Alarm will automat-
NOTE: When power is applied, unit(s) may alarm momentarily.
ically communicate potential fires with all other First Alert® WIRELESS
*When any Smoke Alarm in an interconnected series triggers an alarm, its INTERCONNECT Smoke Alarms.
red LED will flash rapidly. The red LEDs will remain OFF on any remaining
alarms in the series. This feature helps responders identify which unit(s)
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by BRK Brands, Inc.
triggered the alarm.
could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
IF THIS SMOKE ALARM SOUNDS
WEEKLY TESTING
RESPONDING TO AN ALARM
During an alarm, you will hear a loud, repeating horn pattern:
3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps, pause.
• 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).
• If the unit alarms and you are not testing the unit, it is warning you
of a potentially dangerous situation that requires your immediate
• If the Alarm ever fails to test properly, replace it immediately.
attention. NEVER ignore any alarm. Ignoring the alarm may result in
Products under warranty may be returned to the manufacturer
injury or death.
for replacement. See "Limited Warranty" at the end of this manual.
• Never disconnect the AC power to quiet an unwanted alarm.
Disconnecting the power disables the Alarm so it cannot sense
DO NOT stand close to the Alarm when the horn is sounding. Exposure
smoke. This will remove your protection. Instead, open a window or
at close range may be harmful to your hearing. When testing, step away fan the smoke away from the unit. The Alarm will reset automatically.
when horn starts sounding.
• If the unit alarms get everyone out of the house immediately.
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 Alarm. Press and hold the test button on the cover of the unit until • ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD: Attempting to disconnect the power
the alarm sounds (the unit may continue to alarm for a few seconds after you connector from the unit when the power is on may result in electrical
release the button). If it does not alarm, make sure the unit is receiving power shock, serious injury or death.
and test it again. If it still does not alarm, replace it immediately.
When an interconnected system of AC powered units is in alarm, the alarm
During testing, you will hear a loud, repeating horn pattern:
indicator light on the unit(s) that initiated the alarm will blink rapidly. It will
3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps, pause.
remain OFF on any remaining units.
When testing a series of interconnected units you must test each unit
If the unit alarms, get everyone out of the dwelling immediately.
individually. Make sure all units alarm when each one is tested.
If the unit alarms and you are certain that the source of smoke is not a fire—
cooking smoke or an extremely dusty furnace, for example—open a nearby
REGULAR MAINTENANCE
window or door and fan the smoke away from the unit (Use the Silence
Feature to silence the Alarm). This will silence the alarm, and once the smoke
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: clears the unit will reset itself automatically.
• Test it at least once a week.
WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF FIRE
• Clean the Smoke Alarm at least once a month; gently vacuum the
outside of the Smoke Alarm using your household vacuum's soft brush
• Don't panic; stay calm. Follow your family escape plan.
attachment. Test the Smoke Alarm. Never use water, cleaners or solvents
• Get out of the house as quickly as possible. Don't stop to
since they may damage the unit.
get dressed or collect anything.
• If the Smoke Alarm becomes contaminated by excessive dirt, dust and/or
grime, and cannot be cleaned to avoid unwanted alarms, replace the unit • Feel doors with the back of your hand before opening them.
immediately. 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.
• Relocate the unit if it sounds frequent unwanted alarms. See "Locations
To Avoid For Smoke Alarms" for details.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a cloth (preferably damp).
• When the battery back-up becomes weak, the Smoke Alarm will "chirp" Take short, shallow breaths.
about once a minute (the low battery warning). This warning should last
• Meet at your planned meeting place outside your home,
7 days, but you should replace the batteries immediately to continue your
and do a head count to make sure everybody got out safely.
protection.
• Call the Fire Department as soon as possible from outside.
Choosing a replacement battery:
Give your address, then your name.
Your Smoke Alarm requires 2 "AA" Duracell MN1500 batteries.
These batteries are available at many local retail stores. • Never go back inside a burning building for any reason.
• Contact your Fire Department for ideas on making your home safer.
• Always use the exact batteries specified by this User's Manual.
DO NOT use rechargeable batteries. Clean the battery contacts and
Alarms have various limitations. See "Limitations of Smoke Alarms" for
also those of the device prior to battery installation. Install batteries
details.
correctly with regard to polarity (+ and -).
• Please dispose of or recycle used batteries properly, following any
USING THE SILENCE FEATURE
local regulations. Consult your local waste management authority
or recycling organization to find an electronics recycling facility in The Silence Feature can temporarily quiet an unwanted alarm for up to 15
your area. DO NOT DISPOSE OF BATTERIES IN FIRE. BATTERIES minutes.
MAY EXPLODE OR LEAK.
The Silence Feature does not disable the unit—it makes it temporarily
• Keep battery out of reach of children. In the event a battery is less sensitive to smoke. For your safety, if smoke around the unit is
dense enough to suggest a potentially dangerous situation, the unit will
swallowed, immediately contact your poison control center, your phy-
sician, or the National Battery Ingestion hotline at 202-625-3333 as stay in alarm or may re-alarm quickly. If you do not know the source of
serious injury may occur. the smoke, do not assume it is an unwanted alarm. Not responding to an
alarm can result in property loss, injury, or death.
To silence Smoke Alarms in an interconnected series:
Actual battery service life depends on the smoke alarm and the environment
in which it is installed. All the batteries specified above are acceptable
1. To silence multiple alarms in an interconnected series, you must press the
replacement batteries for this unit. Regardless of the manufacturer's suggested
Test/Silence button on the unit(s) that triggered the alarm.
battery life, you MUST replace the battery immediately once the unit starts
2. Once you activate the Silence feature, the Red LED will continue to flash
"chirping" (the "low battery warning").
rapidly.
To replace the batteries (without removing Alarm from the ceiling or wall):
3. Pressing the Test/Silence button when in silence will restart the silence
1. Open the battery compartment. timer.
2. Press tabs A and B as shown in the
diagram and remove each battery.
The Silence Feature on these units can temporarily quiet an unwanted alarm
3. Insert the new batteries, making sure
for up to 15 minutes. To use this feature, press the Test/Silence button on the
they snap completely into the battery
cover. If the unit will not silence and no heavy smoke is present, or if it
compartment. Match the terminals on
A B stays in silence mode continuously, it should be replaced immediately.
the ends of the batteries with the
terminals on the unit.
SILENCING THE LOW BATTERY WARNING
4. Close the battery compartment, and then
test the unit by pressing the Test/Silence This silence feature can temporarily quiet the low battery warning "chirp" for
button. up to 8 hours. You can silence the low battery warning "chirp" by pressing
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 twice a minute for 8 hours. After 8 hours,
the low battery "chirp" will resume. Replace the batteries as soon as
Locking Features, Continued
TO LOCK THE MOUNTING BRACKET
1. Using needle-nose pliers, detach one locking pin from mounting bracket.
2. Insert the locking pin into the lock located opposite from the battery IF YOU SUSPECT A PROBLEM
drawer as shown in the diagram.
Smoke Alarms may not operate properly because of dead, missing or weak
batteries, a build-up of dirt, dust or grease on the Smoke Alarm cover, or
installation in an improper location. Clean the Smoke Alarm as described in
"Regular Maintenance," and install a fresh battery, then test the Smoke Alarm
again. If it fails to test properly when you use the test button, or if the problem
persists, replace the Smoke Alarm immediately.
• If you hear a "chirp" approximately once a minute, replace the
batteries.
• If you experience frequent non-emergency alarms (like those caused
by cooking smoke), try relocating the Smoke Alarm.
• If the alarm sounds when no smoke is visible, try cleaning or
relocating the Smoke Alarm. The cover may be dirty.
• If the alarm does not sound during testing, make sure it is receiving
3. When you attach the Smoke Alarm to the mounting bracket, the locking
AC power from the household current.
pin's head will fit into a notch on the bracket.
TO UNLOCK THE MOUNTING BRACKET
Always discharge the branch circuit before servicing an AC or AC/DC
Smoke Alarm. First, turn off the AC power at the circuit breaker or fuse
ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD. Turn off the power to the area where
box. Next, remove the battery from Smoke Alarms with battery back-up.
the Smoke Alarm is installed before removing it from the mounting
Finally, press and hold the test button for 5-10 seconds to discharge the
bracket. Failure to turn off the power first may result in serious electri- branch circuit.
cal shock, injury or death.
Do not try fixing the alarm yourself – this will void your warranty!
If the Smoke Alarm is still not operating properly, and it is still under warranty,
Always discharge the branch circuit before servicing an AC or AC/DC
please see "How to Obtain Warranty Service" in the Limited Warranty.
Smoke Alarm. First, turn off the AC power at the circuit breaker or fuse
box. Next, remove the battery from Smoke Alarms with battery back-up.
Finally, press and hold the Test/Silence button for 5-10 seconds to
discharge the branch circuit.
1. Insert a flathead screwdriver between the
mounting bracket pin and the mounting bracket.
2. Pry the Smoke Alarm away from the bracket
by turning both the screwdriver and the Smoke
Alarm counterclockwise (left) at the same time.
4
RECOMMENDED LOCATIONS
FOR SMOKE ALARMS
Installing Smoke Alarms in Single-Family Residences
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), recommends one Smoke
Alarm on every floor, in every sleeping area, and in every bedroom. In new
construction, the Smoke Alarms must be AC powered and interconnected.
See "Agency Placement Recommendations" for details. For additional cov-
erage, it is recommended that you install a Smoke Alarm 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 Alarms.
More specifically, install Smoke Alarms:
• 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.
• At the top of the first-to-second floor stairway, and at the bottom
of the basement stairway.
Specific requirements for Smoke Alarm 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 AC or AC/DC units be inter-
connected for added protection.
AGENCY PLACEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS
NFPA 72 Chapter 29
"For your information, the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, NFPA 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 NFPA 72 ® , National Fire Alarm and Signaling
Code Copyright © 2010 National Fire Protection Association, Quincy, MA
02269. This reprinted material is not the complete and official position of the
National Fire Protection Association, on the referenced subject which is repre-
sented only by the standard in its entirety), (National Fire Alarm and Signaling
Code and NFPA 72 are registered trademarks of the National Fire Protection
® ®
Association, Inc., Quincy, MA 02269).
LOCATIONS TO AVOID FOR SMOKE ALARMS
For best performance, AVOID installing Smoke Alarms in these areas:
• Where combustion particles are produced. Combustion particles form
when something burns. Areas to avoid include poorly ventilated kitchens,
garages, and furnace rooms. Keep units at least 20 feet (6 meters) from
the sources of combustion particles (stove, furnace, water heater, space
heater) if possible. In areas where a 20-foot distance is not possible –
in modular, mobile, or smaller homes, for example – it is recommended
the Smoke Alarm be placed as far from these fuel-burning sources as
possible. The placement recommendations are intended to keep these
Alarms at a reasonable distance from a fuel-burning source, and thus
reduce "unwanted" alarms. Unwanted alarms can occur if a Smoke Alarm
is placed directly next to a fuel-burning source. Ventilate these areas as
much as possible.
• In air streams near kitchens. Air currents can draw cooking smoke into
the sensing chamber of a Smoke Alarm near the kitchen.
• In very damp, humid or steamy areas, or directly near bathrooms with
showers. Keep units at least 10 feet (3 meters) away from showers, sau-
nas, dishwashers, etc.
• Where the temperatures are regularly below 40˚ F (4.4˚ C) or above
100˚ F (37.8˚ C) including unheated buildings, outdoor rooms, porches,
or unfinished attics or basements.
• In very dusty, dirty, or greasy areas. Do not install a Smoke Alarm directly
over the stove or range. Clean a laundry room unit frequently to keep it
free of dust or lint.
• Near fresh air vents, ceiling fans, or in very drafty areas. Drafts can blow
smoke away from the unit, preventing it from reaching sensing chamber.
• In insect infested areas. Insects can clog openings to the sensing
chamber and cause unwanted alarms.
• Less than 12 inches (305 mm) away from fluorescent lights.
Electrical "noise" can interfere with the sensor.
• In "dead air" spaces. "Dead air" spaces may prevent smoke from
reaching the Smoke Alarm.
AVOIDING DEAD AIR SPACES
"Dead air" spaces may prevent smoke from reaching the Smoke Alarm.
To avoid dead air spaces, follow the installation recommendations below.
On ceilings, install Smoke Alarms as close to the center of the ceiling as
possible. If this is not possible, install the Smoke Alarm at least 4 inches
(102 mm) from the wall or corner.
For wall mounting (if allowed by building codes), the top edge of Smoke
Alarms should be placed between 4 inches (102 mm) and 12 inches (305 mm)
from the wall/ceiling line, below typical "dead air" spaces.
On a peaked, gabled, or cathedral ceiling, install the first Smoke Alarm
within 3 feet (0.9 meters) of the peak of the ceiling, measured horizontally.
Additional Smoke Alarms may be required depending on the length, angle,
etc. of the ceiling's slope. Refer to NFPA 72 for details on requirements for
sloped or peaked ceilings.
ABOUT SMOKE ALARMS
Battery (DC) operated Smoke Alarms: Provide protection even when
electricity fails, provided the batteries are fresh and correctly installed.
Units are easy to install, and do not require professional installation.
AC powered Smoke Alarms: Can be interconnected so if one unit senses
smoke, all units alarm. They do not operate if electricity fails.
AC with battery (DC) back-up: will operate if electricity fails, provided the
batteries are fresh and correctly installed. AC and AC/DC units must be
installed by a qualified electrician.
WIRELESS INTERCONNECT Smoke Alarms with battery (DC) back-up:
Interconnects with all WIRELESS INTERCONNECT enabled Smoke and
Smoke/CO Alarms without wires or connectors, so when one alarm sounds,
they all sound. Will operate if electricity fails, provided the batteries are fresh
and correctly installed. Units are easy to install, and do not require profes-
sional installation.
Smoke Alarms for Solar or Wind Energy users and battery backup power
systems: AC powered Smoke Alarms should only be operated with true or
pure sine wave inverters. Operating this Smoke Alarm with most battery-
powered UPS (uninterruptible power supply) products or square wave or
"quasi sine wave" inverters will damage the Alarm. If you are not sure about
your inverter or UPS type, please consult with the manufacturer to verify.
Smoke Alarms for the hearing impaired: Special purpose Smoke Alarms
should be installed for the hearing impaired. They include a visual alarm and
an audible alarm horn, and meet the requirements of the Americans With
Disabilities Act. These units can be interconnected so if one unit senses
smoke, all units alarm.
Smoke alarms are not to be used with detector guards unless the
combination has been evaluated and found suitable for that purpose.
All these Smoke Alarms are designed to provide early warning of fires if located,
installed and cared for as described in the user's manual, and if smoke reaches
the Alarm. If you are unsure which type of unit to install, refer to NFPA (National
Fire Protection Association) 72 (National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code)
and NFPA 101 (Life Safety Code). National Fire Protection Association, One
Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269-9101. Local building codes may also
require specific units in new construction or in different areas of the home.
5 6
SPECIAL COMPLIANCE CONSIDERATIONS
This Smoke Alarm is suitable for use in apartments, condominiums,
townhouses, hospitals, day care facilities, health care facilities, boarding
houses, group homes and dormitories provided a primary fire detection
system already exists to meet fire detection requirements in common areas
like lobbies, hallways, or porches. Using this Smoke Alarm in common areas
may not provide sufficient warning to all residents or meet local fire protection
ordinances/regulations.
This Smoke Alarm alone is not a suitable substitute for complete fire detection
systems in places housing many people—like apartment buildings, condo-
miniums, hotels, motels, dormitories, hospitals, health care facilities, nursing
homes, day care facilities, or group homes of any kind. It is not a suitable
substitute for complete fire detection systems in warehouses, industrial
facilities, commercial buildings, and special-purpose non-residential buildings
which require special fire detection and alarm systems. Depending on the
building codes in your area, this Smoke Alarm may be used to provide
additional protection in these facilities.
In new construction, most building codes require the use of AC or AC/DC
powered Smoke Alarms only. In existing construction, AC, AC/DC, or DC
powered Smoke Alarms can be used as specified by local building codes.
Refer to NFPA 72 (National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code) and NFPA 101
(Life Safety Code), local building codes, or consult your Fire Department for
detailed fire protection requirements in buildings not defined as "households".
HUD MAP Program
Certain HUD battery powered Smoke Alarm applications, especially those
that fall under HUD 223(f) MAP (Multi-family Accelerated Processing), may
require a 10 Year sealed tamper resistant battery. This alarm does not meet
that requirement. Substitute First Alert SA340B.
FCC Compliance
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, if not installed and used in accordance with
the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
However, there is no guarantee that the interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to
radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equip-
WIRELESS
ment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by
INTERCONNECT
ALARMS
one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that of
the receiver.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio or TV technician for help.
Warning: Changes or modifications to the product, not expressly approved
by First Alert / BRK Brands, Inc., could void the user's authority to operate
the equipment.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject
to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful
interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause undesired operation.
FCC ID: M7U5201L
LIMITATIONS OF SMOKE ALARMS
Smoke Alarms have played a key role in reducing deaths resulting from home
fires worldwide. However, like any warning device, Smoke Alarms can only
work if they are properly located, installed, and maintained, and if smoke
reaches the Alarms. They are not foolproof.
Smoke alarms may not waken all individuals. Practice the escape plan at
least twice a year, making sure that everyone is involved – from kids to grand-
parents. Allow children to master fire escape planning and practice before
holding a fire drill at night when they are sleeping. If children or others do not
readily waken to the sound of the smoke alarm, or if there are infants or family
members with mobility limitations, make sure that someone is assigned to
assist them in fire drill and in the event of an emergency. It is recommended
that you hold a fire drill while family members are sleeping in order to deter-
mine their response to the sound of the smoke alarm while sleeping and to
determine whether they may need assistance in the event of an emergency.
Smoke Alarms cannot work without power. Battery operated units cannot
work if the batteries are missing, disconnected or dead, if the wrong type of
batteries are used, or if the batteries are not installed correctly. AC units cannot
work if the AC power is cut off for any reason (open fuse or circuit breaker,
failure along a power line or at a power station, electrical fire that burns the
electrical wires, etc.). If you are concerned about the limitations of battery or
AC power, install both types of units.
Smoke Alarms cannot detect fires if the smoke does not reach the
Alarms. Smoke from fires in chimneys or walls, on roofs, or on the other side
of closed doors may not reach the sensing chamber and set off the Alarm.
That is why one unit should be installed inside each bedroom or sleeping
area—especially if bedroom or sleeping area doors are closed at night—and
in the hallway between them.
Smoke Alarms may not detect fire on another floor or area of the dwell-
ing. For example, a stand-alone unit on the second floor may not detect
smoke from a basement fire until the fire spreads. This may not give you
enough time to escape safely. That is why recommended minimum protection
is at least one unit in every sleeping area, and every bedroom on every level
of your dwelling. Even with a unit on every floor, stand-alone units may not
provide as much protection as interconnected units, especially if the fire starts
in a remote area. Some safety experts recommend installing interconnected
AC powered units with battery back-up (see "About Smoke Alarms") or
professional fire detection systems, so if one unit senses smoke, all units
alarm. Interconnected units may provide earlier warning than stand-alone
units since all units alarm when one detects smoke.
Smoke Alarms may not be heard. Though the alarm horn in this unit meets or
exceeds current standards, it may not be heard if: 1) the unit is located outside a
closed or partially closed door, 2) residents recently consumed alcohol or drugs,
3) the Alarm is drowned out by noise from stereo, TV, traffic, air conditioner or
other appliances, 4) residents are hearing impaired or sound sleepers. Special
purpose units, like those with visual and audible alarms, should be installed
for hearing impaired residents.
Smoke Alarms may not have time to alarm before the fire itself causes
damage, injury, or death, since smoke from some fires may not reach
the unit immediately. Examples of this include persons smoking in bed,
children playing with matches, or fires caused by violent explosions
resulting from escaping gas.
Smoke Alarms are not foolproof. Like any electronic device, Smoke Alarms
are made of components that can wear out or fail at any time. You must test
the unit weekly to ensure your continued protection. Smoke Alarms cannot pre-
vent or extinguish fires. They are not a substitute for property or life insurance.
Smoke Alarms have a limited life. The unit should be replaced immediately
if it is not operating properly. You should always replace a Smoke Alarm after
10 years from date of purchase. Write the purchase date on the space provid-
ed on back of unit.
LIMITED WARRANTY
BRK Brands, Inc., ("BRK") the maker of First Alert brand and products,
®
warrants that for a period of ten years from the date of purchase, this
product will be free from defects in material and workmanship.
BRK, at its option, will repair or replace this product or any component of
the product found to be defective during the warranty period. Replacement
will be made with a new or remanufactured product or component. If the
product is no longer available, replacement may be made with a similar
product of equal or greater value. This is your exclusive warranty.
This warranty is valid for the original retail purchaser from the date of initial
retail purchase and is not transferable. Keep the original sales receipt.
Proof of purchase is required to obtain warranty performance.
BRK dealers, service centers, or retail stores selling BRK products do not
have the right to alter, modify or any way change the terms and conditions
of this warranty.
This warranty does not cover normal wear of parts or damage resulting
from any of the following: negligent use or misuse of the product, use on
improper voltage or current, use contrary to the operating instructions,
disassembly, repair or alteration by anyone other than BRK or an authorized
service center. Further, the warranty does not cover Acts of God, such as
fire, flood, hurricanes and tornadoes or any batteries that are included with
this unit.
BRK shall not be liable for any incidental or consequential damages
caused by the breach of any express or implied warranty. Except to the
extent prohibited by applicable law, any implied warranty of merchantability
or fitness for a particular purpose is limited in duration to the duration of
the above warranty. Some states, provinces or jurisdictions do not allow
the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages or
limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitations
or exclusion may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal
rights, and you may also have other rights that vary from state to state or
province to province.
How to Obtain Warranty Service
Service: If service is required, do not return the product to your retailer.
In order to obtain warranty service, contact the Consumer Affairs Division at
1-800-323-9005, 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM CST, Monday through Friday, and 8:00
AM - 6:00 PM CST, Saturday & Sunday. To assist us in serving you, please
have the model number and date of purchase available when calling.
For Warranty Service return to:
BRK Brands, Inc., 1301 Joe Battle, El Paso, TX 79936
Battery: BRK Brands, Inc. make no warranty, express or implied, written or
oral, including that of merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose
with respect to battery.
First Alert ® is a registered trademark of the First Alert Trust.
Printed in Mexico M08-0149-008 Q 05/15
7