Operation And Testing; Nuisance Alarms - Kidde PE9 User Manual

4. OPERATION AND TESTING

OPERATION: The smoke alarm is operating once a fresh battery is
installed and testing is complete. When products of combustion
are sensed, the unit sounds a loud 85db pulsating alarm until the
air is cleared.
FLASHING LED LIGHT: This smoke alarm is equipped with a flash-
ing red indicator light. The light is located under the test button
and will flash every 30-40 seconds to indicate that the smoke
alarm is receiving power.
SMOKE SENSING CHAMBER OPERATION: This alarm will "chirp" if
any of the components in the smoke sensing chamber fail. This
chirp will occur between the flashes of the red LED indicator light.
(If the chirp occurs at the same time as the red LED flash, see sec-
tion 6 for low battery information.)
TESTING: Test by pushing the test button on the cover and holding
it down for a minimum of 5 seconds. This will sound the alarm if
the electronic circuitry, horn, and battery are working. If no alarm
sounds, the unit has defective batteries or other failure. DO NOT
use an open flame to test your alarm, you could damage the
alarm or ignite combustible materials and start a structure fire.
TEST THE ALARM WEEKLY TO ENSURE PROPER OPERATION. Erratic
or low sound coming from your alarm may indicate a defective
alarm, and it should be returned for service (see section 12).
NOTE: WEEKLY TESTING IS REQUIRED.

5. NUISANCE ALARMS

Smoke alarms are designed to minimize nuisance alarms.
Cigarette smoke will not normally set off the alarm, unless the
smoke is blown directly into the alarm. Combustion particles from
cooking may set off the alarm if the alarm is located close to the
cooking area. Large quantities of combustible particles are gener-
ated from spills or when broiling. Using the fan on a range hood
which vents to the outside (non-recirculating type) will also help
remove these combustible products from the kitchen.
If the alarm does sound, check for fires first. If a fire is discovered,
get out and call the fire department. If no fire is present, check to
see if one of the reasons listed in section 2 may have caused the
alarm.