First Alert GCO1 User Manual

INST LL TION, Continued
USER'S MANUAL
See " voiding Dead ir Spaces" for more information.
NOTE: For any location, make sure no door or other obstruction could keep
carbon monoxide or gas from reaching the larm.
PLUG-IN EXPLOSIVE GAS AND CARBON MONOXIDE
ALARM WITH BATTERY BACK-UP AND SILENCE FEATURE
This unit should receive continuous electrical power. (The battery is
meant for emergency back-up only). Choose an outlet where it can't be
accidentally unplugged or switched off by children. Keep small children
away from the unit. Teach them not to play with it or unplug it. Explain
what the alarms mean.
WHERE THIS ALARM SHOULD NOT BE INSTALLED
To avoid causing damage to the unit, to provide optimum protection, and
to prevent unnecessary alarms, Do NOT locate this larm:
• In garages, kitchens, crawl spaces and unfinished attics. void extremely
dusty, dirty or greasy areas. Installation in these areas could lead to
nuisance alarms, may expose the sensor to substances that could damage
or contaminate it, or the larm may not be heard by persons in other
areas of the home, especially if they are sleeping.
~
120V C 60Hz, 0.25 • In the garage, vehicle exhaust can contain some carbon monoxide. These
levels are higher when the engine is first started. Within hours of starting a
vehicle and backing it out of the garage, the levels present over time can
IMPORT NT! PLE SE RE D C REFULLY ND S VE.
activate the larm and become a nuisance.
This unit was shipped with a user's manual that contains important
• In the kitchen, some gas appliances can emit a short burst of CO or gas
information about its operation. If you are installing this unit for use by others,
upon start-up. This is normal. If your Explosive Gas/CO larm is installed
you must leave this manual—or a copy of it—with the end user.
too close to these appliances, it may alarm often and become a nuisance.
• Keep units at least 20 feet (6 meters) from the sources of combustion
CONFORMS TO
Printed in Mexico particles (stove, furnace, water heater, space heater) if possible. In areas
UL STD 1484
M08-0123-011 Q 09/12 Model GCO1 where a 20-foot (6m) distance is not possible – in modular, mobile, or
ND
smaller homes, for example – it is recommended the larm be placed
UL STD 2034
as far from these fuel-burning sources as possible. The placement
recommendations are intended to keep these larms at a reasonable
distance from a fuel-burning source, and thus reduce "unwanted" alarms.
© 2012 BRK Brands, Inc. ll rights reserved. Unwanted alarms can occur if an larm is placed directly next to a fuel-
burning source. Ventilate these areas as much as possible. If you must
Distributed by BRK Brands, Inc.
3901 Liberty Street Road, urora, IL 60504-8122 install the larm near a cooking or heating appliance, install at least
Consumer ffairs: (800) 323-9005 5 feet (1.5 meters) from appliance.
www.brkelectronics.com • www.firstalert.com
• In extremely humid areas. This larm should be at least 10 feet (3 meters)
from a shower, sauna, humidifier, vaporizer, dishwasher, laundry room,
BASIC SAFETY INFORMATION utility room, or other source of high humidity.
• In direct sunlight.
• In turbulent air, like near ceiling fans or open windows. Blowing air may
• Dangers, Warnings, and Cautions alert you to important operating
prevent CO or gas from reaching the sensors.
instructions or to potentially hazardous situations. Pay special
attention to these items. • In areas where temperature is colder than 40˚ F (4.4˚ C) or hotter than
100˚ F (37.8˚ C). These areas include non-airconditioned crawl spaces,
unfinished attics, uninsulated or poorly insulated ceilings, porches, and
• This combination Explosive Gas/Carbon Monoxide larm has two garages.
separate alarms. The CO larm is not designed to detect fire or any
• Less than 12 inches (305 mm) away from fluorescent lights. Electrical
other gas. It will only indicate the presence of carbon monoxide gas
"noise" can interfere with the sensor.
at the sensor. Carbon monoxide gas may be present in other areas.
The Explosive Gas larm will only indicate the presence of explosive • In "dead air" spaces. See " voiding Dead ir Spaces".
gas that reaches the sensor. The Explosive Gas larm is not designed
to sense smoke, heat or flames. VOIDING DE D IR SP CES
• Do not stand too close to the unit when the alarm is sounding. It is
"Dead air" spaces may prevent gas from reaching the larm. To avoid dead
loud to wake you in an emergency. Exposure to the horn at close
air spaces, follow installation recommendations below.
range may harm your hearing.
On ceilings, install larms as close to the center of the ceiling as possible.
• Do not paint over the unit. Paint may clog the openings to the sensing
If this is not possible, install the larm at least 4 inches (102 mm) from the wall
chambers and prevent the unit from operating properly.
or corner.
For wall mounting, the top edge of larms should be placed between
• This unit must be powered by a 24-hour circuit. Be sure the circuit
6 inches (152 mm) and 12 inches (305 mm) from the wall/ceiling line.
cannot be turned off by a switch, dimmer, or ground fault circuit
On a peaked, gabled, or cathedral ceiling, install larm within 3 feet (0.9
interrupter. Failure to connect this unit to a 24-hour circuit may
meters) of the peak of the ceiling, measured horizontally.
prevent it from providing constant protection.
• This larm must have C or battery power to operate. If C power
fails and the battery is dead or missing, the alarm cannot operate.
BEFORE YOU BEGIN INSTALLATION
• The larm will check for the presence of explosive gas at the sensor
Since CO generally mixes well with air, mounting the larm will depend on the
less frequently when powered by the back-up battery. Explosive gas
type of explosive gas you intend to detect. If you are not certain which type of
could be present during the period between checks without going
gas you are using in your home, please read about natural gas and propane in
into alarm, especially during a condition that results in a rapid
"Where to Install this larm".
buildup of explosive gas.
• Test the larm once a week. If the larm ever fails to test correctly,
have it replaced immediately! If the larm is not working properly, it
• Make sure the alarm is not receiving excessively noisy power.
cannot alert you to a problem. Examples of noisy power could be major appliances on the same
circuit, power from a generator or solar power, light dimmer on the
• This combination Carbon Monoxide and Explosive Gas larm is
intended for residential use and is not suitable for use in hazardous same circuit or mounted near fluorescent lighting. Excessively noisy
power may cause damage to your larm.
locations as defined in the National Electrical Code.
• This product is intended for use in ordinary indoor locations of family Find the pair of self-adhesive labels included with this Gas/CO larm.
living units. It is not designed to measure CO levels in compliance with
• On each label write in the phone number of your emergency responder
Occupational Safety and Health dministration (OSH ) commercial (like 911) and a qualified appliance technician.
or industrial standards. Individuals with medical conditions that may
• Place one label near the Gas/CO larm, and the other label in the "fresh
make them more sensitive to carbon monoxide may consider using
air" location you plan to go if the alarm sounds.
warning devices which provide audible and visual signals for carbon
monoxide concentrations under 30 ppm. For additional information on
HOW TO INSTALL THIS GAS/CO ALARM
carbon monoxide and your medical condition contact your physician.
IMPORT NT! Read all instructions before using this product.
FCC Compliance
Tools you will need: Screwdriver, drill.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a
1. Determine the best location for your Gas/CO larm.
Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in 2. Your larm is equipped to be mounted as a corded unit (recommended
for natural gas detection), a direct plug unit (recommended for propane
a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate
radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with gas detection). The unit can be plugged directly into a wall outlet. If your
the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. outlets are mounted horizontally, refer to "If Outlet is Mounted Horizontally
(Sideways)".
However, there is no guarantee that the interference will not occur in a
If the adapter is taken out of the unit, the larm can be installed high on
particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to
radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equip- the wall, while the adapter is plugged into a wall outlet. The explosive gas
ment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by you use will determine if the larm should be installed high on the wall
( C cord option) or low on the wall (direct plug option).
one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
CTIV TING THE B TTERY B CK-UP
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that of
ctivate the battery back-up by installing the battery. The battery is for
the receiver.
back-up only and is not intended to power the larm for an extended
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio or TV technician for help.
period of time in the absence of C.
Warning: Changes or modifications to the product, not expressly approved
The larm will light-up the display briefly to indicate the unit is receiving power.
by First lert / BRK Brands, Inc., could void the user's authority to operate
the equipment.
DIRECT PLUG L RM INTO N OUTLET (for Propane Detection)
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,
This larm can be plugged directly into a wall outlet located close to the floor.
including interference that may cause undesired operation.
This is the recommended configuration for detecting propane.
1. Choose a standard UNSWITCHED 120V C outlet.
2. Plug larm in.
INSTALLATION
WHERE TO INSTALL THIS ALARM IF OUTLET IS MOUNTED HORIZONT LLY (SIDEW YS)
For Gas larms, mounting depends on the type of explosive gas you intend If you are going to use your larm as a direct plug into an outlet that is
to detect.
mounted horizontally (sideways), you may want to rotate the adapter 90º,
Natural Gas (methane) is typically supplied through a main utility line as follows:
connected to your home. If you do not live in a rural area you are likely to 1. With back of unit facing you ( C blades on your left), place your left
be a user of natural gas. Natural gas is a fossil fuel consisting mainly of
thumb on adapter release and grab C blades with your right hand to
Methane. Methane is much lighter than air and will rise rapidly in air. If you release the left side.
are a user of natural gas, the larm should be mounted between 6 and 12
2. Repeat for the other side adapter thumb release. This will allow adapter
inches (152mm and 305 mm) away from the ceiling (using cord feature) to
to slide out.
ensure the earliest opportunity to detect a leak.
3. Remove adapter.
Propane is typically supplied to homes by delivery truck in liquid form and
4. Rotate the adapter 90º and snap firmly back into place.
stored near the home in propane tanks. Propane is used by homes in rural
areas that do not have natural gas service. Since propane is the most 5. Plug larm into C outlet.
commonly used Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), propane and LP-Gas are
often used synonymously. Unlike natural gas, propane is heavier than air W LL MOUNTED L RM (for Natural Gas Detection)
and will collect at lower levels. If you are a user of propane, the larm
should be mounted near the floor (using the direct plug-in feature) to
ensure the earliest opportunity to detect a leak.
Installation tips for power cord models: The power cord option provides
more flexibility in mounting locations and allows the larm to be easily
Both propane and natural gas are colorless and odorless. For safety
installed at or above eye level.
reasons, an ordorant (Mercaptan) is added so that any leak can be
detected by smell. The common detection threshold for smelling the
NOTE: If you mount the larm high on a wall, make sure it is between 6 to 12
gases is around 20% of the Lower Explosion Limit (LEL). This can vary
inches (152-305 mm) down from the ceiling. ny higher than this, it will be
greatly depending on the individuals sense of smell and how long they
in "dead air" space and carbon monoxide or natural gas may not reach the
have been exposed to it. The LEL of each of these gases defines the
sensors.
bottom range of flammability for the gas. Your larm is calibrated to
NOTE: Do not cover the larm with a curtain.
sound before 25% of the LEL of either gas detected.
To install for a wall-mount, you will need to pull out the removable adapter and
Therefore, it is possible that you may smell gas before the larm is
activated. If you are not sure which gas your home uses, contact power cord, as follows:
your utility company. 1. Repeat steps 1 to 3 as described above in "to rotate the adapter".
For CO larms, the National Fire Protection ssociation (NFP ) recommends 2. With adapter out, pull out power cord and unwrap it.
that a CO larm should be centrally located outside of each separate sleeping
3. Insert the screws provided until head is approx. 1/8 inch (3 mm) from wall
area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms. For added protection, install
(if mounting in plaster board or drywall, drill 3/16 inch (5 mm) hole and use
additional CO larms in each separate bedroom, and on every level of your
plastic anchor provided). Use mounting guide template to locate holes as
home.
shown in diagram below.
In general, install combination Explosive Gas and Carbon Monoxide 4. Hook the larm over the screw onto the keyhole in back of unit.
larms:
5. Plug power cord into C outlet.
• WHERE YOU C N HE R THE L RM FROM LL SLEEPING RE S
• In or near bedrooms and living areas or wherever you suspect a gas or
CO exposure is likely. SECURING THE POWER CORD TO N OUTLET
• On each level of a multi-level home.
DISCONNECT POWER TO THE OUTLET TO VOID ELECTRIC L SHOCK.
Improper location can affect the sensitive electronic components in this larm.
1. Remove the wallplate screw from the outlet and hold the wallplate in position.
Please see "Where this larm Should Not Be Installed".
2. Plug the power cord into the wall outlet so that the screw hole lines up with
Recommended Placement the wallplate screw hole.
3. Insert the screw through the power cord screw hole and into the wallplate
screw hole.
DINING ROOM KITCHEN BEDROOM BEDROOM
4. Tighten screw in place and restore power to the outlet.
LIVING ROOM BEDROOM
Continued...
1
TEST THE L RM
1. Make sure the larm is receiving C power. Under normal operation, the
Green indicator light will shine continuously. If the Green power indicator
light does not light, recheck connections. If connections are correct and
the Green power indicator still does not light, the unit should be replaced
immediately.
2. Press and hold the test button until the alarm sounds. You will hear the
signal that indicates the presence of explosive gas followed by the signal
for carbon monoxide.
When testing the larm, have someone else check that the larm can be
heard easily from the sleeping areas. The unit should be located where it
can wake you if it alarms at night.
HOW YOUR ALARM WORKS
THE COVER OF YOUR ALARM
1. Test/Silence Button:
Press and hold to
activate test, or to
silence the alarm.
2. POWER Light (GREEN)
2
3. Display
3
4. (Behind the Cover) larm
Horn: 85 dB audible alarm
for test, alarm, and unit
malfunction warning.
5. Display Button: Press to
recall highest CO level
1
recorded
6. Battery Compartment
4
5
6
IF YOUR GAS/CO ALARM SOUNDS
WHAT TO DO IF CARBON MONOXIDE IS DETECTED
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 SOUNDS:
1. Operate 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 inves-
tigate 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:
_______________________________________________________________
WHAT TO DO IF EXPLOSIVE GAS IS DETECTED
If you hear the alarm horn sound one beep per second,
gas has been detected. The word G S will be displayed.
Evacuate everyone from the building.
1. Leave the house immediately, opening doors and windows as you leave.
2. Do not use your telephone or appliances. Do not turn any light switches
off or on. ny spark or flame could ignite the gas.
3. Call 911 and your gas company from a phone that is away from your
home.
4. Do not re-enter the area until the source of the leak is found and corrected.
• 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 disconnect the power to quiet an unwanted alarm.
Disconnecting the power disables the larm. This will remove
your protection.
larms have various limitations. See "General Limitations of Explosive
Gas/CO larms" for details.
UNDERSTANDING THE LIGHT, HORN, AND DISPLAY PATTERNS
Condition LED
NORM L C POWER LED is Green.
B TTERY B CK-UP POWER LED is Off, flashing Green once every
45 seconds
DURING TESTING LED flashes Red in sync with the
horn, simulating an larm condition:
first gas then CO
LOW OR MISSING B TTERY Normal
G S L RM CONDITION LED flashes Red in sync with horn
C RBON MONOXIDE L RM LED flashes Red in sync with horn
PRE- L RM CONDITION Normal
CO IS PRESENT
M LFUNCTION LED flashing Green 3 times in sync
with 3 chirps
LOW B TTERY SILENCE LED is Green.
END OF LIFE LED flashing Green 5 times in sync
with 5 chirps
Mounting Guide Template
3 7/8 inches (98mm) 3.875 75 inches
2 3
USING THE SILENCE FEATURES 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:
NEVER disconnect the power to your larm to silence the horn—use the
Silence Feature. Disconnecting the larm removes your protection! • Test it at least once a week.
• The Silence Feature is intended to temporarily silence the horn while • Clean the larm at least once a month; gently vacuum the outside of the
you identify and correct the problem. larm using your household vacuum's soft brush attachment. Test the
larm. Never use water, cleaners or solvents since they may damage the
• To use the Silence Feature, press the Test/Silence button until the horn
unit.
is silent.
• Relocate the unit if it sounds frequent unwanted alarms. See "Where This
• If the Test/Silence button is pressed while the larm is in the silence
larm Should Not Be Installed" for details.
mode, the alarm will start sounding again.
• When the battery back-up becomes weak, the larm will "chirp" about
once a minute (the low battery warning). You should replace the battery
WHEN THE G S L RM IS SILENCED...
immediately to continue your protection. This larm must have C or
The larm will remain silent for approximately 2 minutes and then return to
battery power to operate. If C power fails, and the battery is dead
normal operation. If the gas has not cleared within the silence period, the
or missing, the larm cannot operate.
unit will go back into alarm.
WHEN THE CO L RM IS SILENCED...
DO NOT spray cleaning chemicals or insect sprays directly on or near the
larm. DO NOT paint over the larm. Doing so may permanently damage the
The CO larm will remain silent for up to 4 minutes. While the larm is
silenced, it will continue to monitor the air for CO. fter 4 minutes, if CO larm.
levels remain potentially dangerous the horn will start sounding again.
CHOOSING REPL CEMENT B TTERY:
The Silence Feature is intended to temporarily silence the larm horn. It will Your larm requires one standard 9V alkaline battery. The following batteries
are acceptable as replacements: Duracell #MN1604, (Ultra) #MX1604;
not correct a CO or gas problem.
Eveready (Energizer) #522. These batteries are available at many local
retail stores.
SILENCING THE LOW BATTERY WARNING
This Silence Feature can temporarily quiet the low battery warning "chirp" for • lways use the exact batteries specified by this User's Manual.
up to 8 hours if C power is present. You can silence the low battery warning DO NOT use rechargeable batteries. Clean the battery contacts and
"chirp" by pressing the Test/Silence button on the larm cover until you see also those of the device prior to battery installation. Install batteries
the Green LED flicker, acknowledging the button-press. correctly with regard to polarity (+ and -).
• Please dispose of or recycle used batteries properly, following any
The display will flash "SILENCE" for 8 hours while the low battery warning
local regulations. Consult your local waste management authority
"chirp" silence feature is activated. fter 8 hours, the low battery "chirp" will
resume. The larm will continue to operate as long as C power is supplied. or recycling organization to find an electronics recycling facility in
your area. DO NOT DISPOSE OF B TTERIES IN FIRE. B TTERIES
However, replace the battery as soon as possible, to maintain protection in
event of a power outage. M Y EXPLODE OR LE K.
• Keep battery out of reach of children. In the event a battery is
SILENCING THE END OF LIFE SIGNAL
swallowed, immediately contact your poison control center, your
This silence feature can temporarily quiet the End of Life warning "chirp" for
physician, or the National Battery Ingestion hotline at 202-625-3333
up to 2 days. You can silence the End of Life warning "chirp" by pressing the as serious injury may occur.
Test/Silence button. The horn will chirp, acknowledging that the End of Life
silence feature has been activated.
ctual battery service life depends on the larm and the environment in which
fter approximately 2 days, the End of Life "chirp" will resume.
it is installed. ll the batteries specified above are acceptable replacement
batteries for this unit. Regardless of the manufacturer's suggested battery life,
you MUST replace the battery immediately once the unit starts "chirping" (the
USING THE PEAK CO MEMORY
"low battery warning").
The CO Memory Feature lets you check the highest level of CO recorded.
To check CO Memory:
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CO
1. Press the Display button until the peak CO level is displayed.
WHAT IS CO?
To clear CO Memory:
CO is an invisible, odorless, tasteless gas produced when fossil fuels do not
1. utomatically resets after 24 hours. burn completely, or are exposed to heat (usually fire). Electrical appliances
typically do not produce CO.
2a. While checking CO memory, press or hold the Display
These fuels include: Wood, coal, charcoal, oil, natural gas, gasoline, kerosene,
button until "CLE R" is displayed.
and propane.
b. Press or hold the Display button until the CO Memory is
cleared. Common appliances are often sources of CO. If they are not properly main-
tained, are improperly ventilated, or malfunction, CO levels can rise quickly.
3. Remove all power; unplug the larm and remove the battery.
CO is a real danger now that homes are more energy efficient. " ir-tight"
homes with added insulation, sealed windows, and other weatherproofing
NOTE: The highest CO level will be saved for 24 hours. DO NOT clear the
can "trap" CO inside.
CO Memory reading if you plan to call someone to investigate a CO problem!
Clear the CO Memory reading only after the investigator has checked your
home. If the investigator will not arrive within the 24 hour time period before
SYMPTOMS OF CO POISONING
the unit automatically resets, be sure to write down the peak level.
These symptoms are related to CO POISONING and should be discussed
with LL household members.
WEEKLY TESTING 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.
• 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. Exposure to Carbon Monoxide can cause brain damage, death.
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 Some individuals are more sensitive to CO than others, including people
voids your warranty. with cardiac or respiratory problems, infants, unborn babies, pregnant
mothers, or elderly people can be more quickly and severely affected by
• DO NOT stand close to the larm when the horn is sounding.
CO. Members of sensitive populations should consult their doctors for
Exposure at close range may be harmful to your hearing. When
advice on taking additional precautions.
testing, step away when horn starts sounding.
FINDING THE SOURCE OF CO AFTER AN ALARM
It is important to test this unit every week to make sure it is working
properly. Press the Test/Silence button on the larm cover until alarm sounds. 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
During testing, you will hear a loud, repeating horn pattern: 1 beep every
can make it difficult to locate sources of CO:
second, while the Red LED flashes and the display shows "G S". Then you
• House well ventilated before the investigator arrives.
will hear a loud, repeating horn pattern: 4 beeps, pause, 4 beeps, pause,
while the Red LED flashes and the display shows "CO" with an increasing
• Problem caused by "backdrafting."
CO ppm number.
• Transient CO problem caused by special circumstances.
If the larm does not test properly:
Because CO may dissipate by the time an investigator arrives, it may be difficult
1. Make sure the C power is applied and battery is fresh and installed
to locate the source of CO. BRK Brands, Inc. shall not be obligated to pay
correctly. for any carbon monoxide investigation or service call.
2. Test the unit again.
If the larm is still not working properly, replace it immediately. Refer to the
POTENTIAL SOURCES OF CO IN THE HOME
"Limited Warranty" at the end of this manual.
If there is still a problem, do not try to fix the larm yourself. This will
void your warranty!
Horn Display
Silent ll segments
of display are
turned on for
a short time
upon initial
power. Then
the battery level icon is displayed.
Fuel-burning appliances like: portable heater, gas or wood burning fireplace,
gas kitchen range or cooktop, gas clothes dryer.
Silent ll segments of display are turned
Damaged or insufficient venting: corroded or disconnected water heater
On for a short time upon initial
power. Then the battery level icon vent pipe, leaking chimney pipe or flue, or cracked heat exchanger, blocked
is displayed flashing. or clogged chimney opening.
Improper use of appliance/ device: operating a barbecue grill or vehicle in
First, the horn pattern for gas alarm During the simulated
an enclosed area (like a garage or screened porch).
(1 beep every second) is issued, and gas alarm, "G S" is
then the CO alarm horn pattern displayed along with Transient CO Problems: "transient" or on-again-off-again CO problems can
be caused by outdoor conditions and other special circumstances.
(4 beeps, pause, 4 beeps) is issued. a full alarm level.
During the simulated
The following conditions can result in transient CO situations:
CO alarm, "CO" is
1. Excessive spillage or reverse venting of fuel appliances caused by outdoor
displayed along with
conditions such as:
a full alarm level.
Several ppm CO • Wind direction and/or velocity, including high, gusty winds. Heavy air in
the vent pipes (cold/humid air with extended periods between cycles).
levels are also
displayed and
• Negative pressure differential resulting from the use of exhaust fans.
the alarm level is
• Several appliances running at the same time competing for limited fresh
shown increasing.
air.
• Vent pipe connections vibrating loose from clothes dryers, furnaces, or
chirp is issued about every Battery icon will
water heaters.
minute. show either 1 bar
• Obstructions in or unconventional vent pipe designs which can amplify
or an empty icon.
the above situations.
Repeating 1 beep every second "G S", a full level, and "EV CU TE". 2. Extended operation of unvented fuel burning devices (range, oven, fireplace).
3. Temperature inversions, which can trap exhaust close to the ground.
Repeating 4 beeps, pause "CO" alternating
with the ppm 4. Car idling in an open or closed attached garage, or near a home.
number, a full level,
These conditions are dangerous because they can trap exhaust in your home.
and "EV CU TE".
Since these conditions can come and go, they are also hard to recreate during
a CO investigation.
Normal "CO" alternating with the ppm number.
The level will indicate relative CO
exposure level.
3 chirps every minute "Err" is displayed.
Silent "bat" and
"SILENCE"
are displayed.
5 chirps every minute "End" is displayed.
4
HOW CAN I PROTECT MY FAMILY FROM CO
POISONING?
Gas/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.
Gas/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 conditions 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.
• 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.
• 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
Gas/CO larm sounds.
REGULATORY INFORMATION FOR EXPLOSIVE
GAS/CO ALARMS
REGULATORY INFORMATION FOR CO ALARMS
UNDERWRITERS LABORATORIES INC. UL2034
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.
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!
Continued...
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
If your larm does this... It means...
Green light is OFF. Unit will not alarm when you Unit may not be receiving any power.
press the Test/Silence button.
Green light flashes ON, once a minute (horn is silent). larm is not receiving C power. Unit is operating on
battery back-up.
The horn "chirps" once a minute. Low battery warning. Battery is low or missing.
Once a minute, the alarm sounds 3 "chirps", and M LFUNCTION SIGN L. Based on its Self Test
the green light flashes three times. diagnostics, the unit has detected a malfunction.
The unit needs to be replaced.
The light flashes (Green) and the horn sounds END OF LIFE SIGN L.
5 "chirps" every minute. larm needs to be replaced.
The horn sounds constantly with no pattern and Unit malfunction. Unit needs to be replaced.
cannot be silenced.
larm goes back into alarm after you pressed the Gas and/or CO levels are still potentially dangerous.
Test/Silence button to silence an alarm.
larm sounds frequently even though no high levels The larm may be improperly located. Refer to
of gas or CO are revealed in an investigation. "Where to Install This larm."
*For a list of acceptable replacement batteries, see "Regular Maintenance."
If you have any questions that cannot be answered by reading this manual, call Consumer ffairs: 1-800-323-9005.
BRK Brands, Inc., ("BRK") the maker of First lert ® brand products warrants that for a period of five 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 cts 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 ffairs Division at 1-800-323-9005,
7:30 M - 5:00 PM Central Standard Time, Monday through Friday. To assist us in serving you, please have the model number and date of purchase available when
calling. 25 Spur Drive, El Paso TX 79906
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.
For your records, please record:
Date Purchased: _______________________________
Where Purchased: ____________________________________________
Date Installed: ____________/____________Month/Year
Replace alarm 5 years after installation. Please write the date in the
space provided:
_____________/____________Month/Year
The alarm will also provide an audible End-of-Life Signal approximately
5 years after installation to remind you to replace the unit.
The End-of-Life Signal can be silenced for up to 2 days. Do not unplug
the alarm or remove the batteries until you get replacement.
5 6
REGUL TORY INFORM TION FOR CO L RMS, Continued
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 EXPLOSIVE GAS
ALARMS
Standards: Underwriters Laboratories Inc. UL1484.
ccording to Underwriters Laboratories Inc. UL1484, this unit meets the alarm
response time for gas as follows: This unit shall alarm before 25% of the LEL
of either natural gas or propane is detected. In all cases, the unit will detect
gas as a priority over carbon monoxide. If the device is detecting CO, then
detects an amount of gas to cause an alarm, the device will stop alarming for
CO and begin to alarm for gas.
GENERAL LIMITATIONS OF EXPLOSIVE GAS/CO
ALARMS
This Gas/CO larm is intended for residential use. It is not intended for use in
industrial applications where Occupational Safety and Health dministration
(OSH ) requirements for Carbon Monoxide larms must be met. This device
is not intended to alert hearing impaired residents.
Gas/CO larms may not waken all individuals. If children or others do
not readily waken to the sound of the Gas/CO larm, or if there are infants or
family members with mobility limitations, make sure that someone is
assigned to assist them in the event of an emergency.
This Gas/CO larm will not sense gas or CO that does not reach the
sensors. It will only sense gas or CO at the sensor. Gas or CO may be present
in other areas. Doors or other obstructions may affect the rate at which CO or
gas reaches the sensors.
Gas/CO larms may not be heard. The alarm horn loudness meets or
exceeds current UL standards of 85 dB at 10 feet (3 meters). However, if the
Gas/CO larm is installed outside the bedroom, it may not wake up a sound
sleeper or one who has recently used drugs or has been drinking alcoholic
beverages. This is especially true if the door is closed or only partly open.
Even persons who are awake may not hear the alarm horn if the sound
is blocked by distance or closed doors. Noise from traffic, stereo, radio,
television, air conditioner, or other appliances may also prevent alert persons
from hearing the alarm horn. This Gas/CO larm is not intended for people
who are hearing impaired.
This Gas/CO larm is not a substitute for life insurance. Though this
Gas/CO larm warns against increasing CO levels or the presence of gas,
BRK Brands, Inc. does not warrant or imply in any way that they will protect
lives. Homeowners and renters must still insure their lives.
This Gas/CO larm is not foolproof. Like all other electronic devices, this
Gas/CO larm has limitations. It can only detect gas or CO that reaches the
sensors. It may not give early warning of the source of gas or CO is in a
remote part of the home, away from the alarm device.
This Gas/CO larm has a limited life. lthough this Gas/CO larm and
all of its parts have passed many stringent tests and are designed to be as
reliable as possible, any of these parts could fail at any time. Therefore, you
must test this device weekly. The unit should be replaced immediately if it is
not operating properly.
You should...
Check the C power supply. Make sure a fresh 9V
battery is installed to power the battery back-up*.
Check the C power supply.
Replace the battery. void interrupting C power.
Units under warranty should be returned to
manufacturer for replacement. See "Limited
Warranty" for details.
Immediately replace the larm.
Units under warranty should be returned to
manufacturer for replacement. See "Limited
Warranty" for details.
Refer to "If Your Gas/CO larm Sounds" for details
on how to respond to an alarm. If anyone is feeling ill,
EV CU TE your home immediately and call 911.
Relocate your alarm. If frequent alarms continue, have
home rechecked for potential problems. You may be
experiencing an intermittent gas or CO problem.
LIMITED WARRANTY
First lert ® is a registered trademark of the First lert Trust.
Printed in Mexico M08-0123-011 Q 09/12
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