BRK Electronic CO850Mi, CO850MBXi, CO850MRLi - Carbon Monoxide Alarm Manual

Introduction

PLEASE READ AND RETAIN THIS OWNERS MANUAL
When installing this alarm for use by others, please leave this manual or a copy with the end user.

APPARATUS CONFORMING TO THIS STANDARD (BSEN50291:2001) MAY NOT PROTECT PEOPLE WHO ARE AT SPECIAL RISK FROM CARBON MONOXIDE EXPOSURE BY REASON OF AGE, PREGNANCY OR MEDICAL CONDITION. IF IN ANY DOUBT, CONSULT YOUR MEDICAL PRACTITIONER.

Not suitable as a smoke, fire, or combustible gas alarm. This device is not suitable for installation in a hazardous location, as classified in BSEN 60079-10:1996.

Audible and visual warnings

Alarm sounder

	A repeating series of 4 beeps with red light – FULL ALARM
	A repeating series of 4 beeps WITHOUT LIGHTS – An interconnected alarm is in FULL ALARM
	Three short beeps every 60 seconds – REPLACE CO ALARM/END OF LIFE
	Two short beeps every 60 seconds with yellow light – FAULT
	A single beep every minute with a yellow light flash – LOW BATTERY
	Two sets of four beeps with red Light – WHEN TESTED WITH TEST BUTTON

What to do if the alarm sounds

If harmful levels of carbon monoxide are detected, your alarm will emit a series of four beeps followed by a short pause; this will be accompanied by a flashing red light. This pattern will be repeated until the alarm is successfully reset. If the alarm is emitting a different pattern of beeps see section above.
If the alarm sounds, respond as follows:

1. If anyone is experiencing the effects of carbon monoxidepoisoning–headache, dizziness, nausea or other 'flulike' symptoms: –
2. Open the doors and windows to ventilate.
3. Turn off any fuel-burning appliances where possible andstop using them.
4. Evacuate the property leaving the doors and windowsopen.
5. Ring your gas or other fuel supplier on their emergencynumber. Record those numbers here:-
   
6. Do not re-enter the property until the alarm has stopped.
7. Get medical help immediately for anyone suffering theeffects of carbon monoxide poisoning (headache, nausea), and advise that carbon monoxide poisoning is suspected.
8. Do not use the fuel-burning appliances again until theyhave been checked by an expert. In the case of gas appliances this must be a Capita/Gas Safe registered installer.
9. If no symptoms exist, operate the Test/Reset button andimmediately ventilate the home by opening the windows and doors.
10. The alarm can be silenced by pressing the Test/Resetbutton.
11. If you have interconnected CO alarms in the system, youhave to reset the initiating alarm which can be identified by the red alarm light being 'on'.

What to do after resetting the alarm
A full continuous alarm within six minutes after reset confirms ongoing presence of harmful levels of carbon monoxide. If this occurs follow instructions 2 to 8 as per above.

What to do after a carbon monoxide problem has been corrected?
After a carbon monoxide problem has been corrected reset your alarm by pushing the Test/Reset button as per the following instructions.

How to reset the alarm
The alarm will reset once the carbon monoxide has dispersed. Should you wish to attempt to do a manual reset press the test/reset button. The unit will re-alarm if the levels of carbon monoxide are still hazardous. To reset after an alarm, press the Test/Reset.

What are the possible symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is odourless, colourless, tasteless and very toxic. When inhaled, it produces an effect known as chemical asphyxiation.
Injury is due to the combining of CO with the available haemoglobin in the blood, which lowers the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. In the presence of carbon monoxide, the body is quickly affected by oxygen starvation. The following symptoms are related to carbon monoxide poisoning and should be discussed with all members of the household so that they know what to look for:
Extreme Exposure (A-C) below. Unconsciousness, convulsions, cardio respiratory failure, death.
Medium Exposure (D-G below) Severe throbbing headache, drowsiness, confusion, vomiting, fast heart rate
Mild Exposure (H-J below) Slight headache, nausea, fatigue (often described as 'flu-like' symptoms)

1. 50% COHb (Permanent Brain Damage – Death)
2. 45% COHb (Coma and Permanent Brain Damage)
3. 40% COHb (Collapse)
4. 35% COHb (Vomiting)
5. 30% COHb (Drowsy)
6. 25% COHb (Headache and Nausea)
7. 20% COHb (Headache)
8. 15% COHb (Slight Headache)
9. 10% COHb (None)
10. 5% COHb (None)

Many cases of reported CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING indicate that while the victims are aware they are not well, they become so disorientated they are unable to exit the building or call for assistance. Young children and household pets may be the first affected. Exposure during sleep is particularly dangerous because the victim usually does not awaken. For most people, mild symptoms generally will be felt after several hours of exposure to 100 ppm of carbon monoxide. Higher levels will lead to more severe symptoms or death.

What is carbon monoxide and whyshould you be concerned?

Carbon monoxide is a dangerous, poisonous gas. It is often referred to as the Silent Killer because it has no odour or taste and it can't be seen. The presence of carbon monoxide inhibits the blood's capacity to transport oxygen throughout the body, which can eventually lead to brain damage. In any enclosed space (home, office, recreational vehicle or boat) even a small accumulation of carbon monoxide can be dangerous.

What are the potential sources ofcarbon monoxide?

Although many products of combustion can cause discomfort and adverse health effects, it is carbon monoxide (CO) that presents the greatest threat to life. CO is produced by the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels such as natural gas, propane, heating oil, paraffin, coal, charcoal, petrol or wood. The incomplete combustion of fossil fuel can occur in any device that depends on burning for energy or heat such as gas fires, central heating boilers, room heaters, water heaters, cookers or grills and in any petrol-powered vehicle or engine (e.g. generator set or lawnmower). Tobacco smoke also adds CO to the air you breathe.
When properly installed and maintained, your natural gas boiler and hot water heater do not pollute your air space with carbon monoxide. Natural gas is known as a 'clean burning' fuel because under correct operating conditions the combustion products are water vapour and carbon dioxide, which are not toxic. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is also present in the air we exhale and is necessary for plant life). The products of combustion are vented from boilers and water heaters to the outside by means of a flue, duct or chimney.
Correct operation of fuel-burning equipment requires two key conditions. There must be:

• An adequate supply of air for complete combustion.
• Proper venting of the products of combustion from theboiler through the chimney, vent or duct to the outside.

Typical Carbon Monoxide Problems

1. Equipment problems, due to defects, poor maintenance, damaged or cracked heat exchangers
2. Collapsed or blocked chimneys or flues, dislodged, disconnected or damaged vents
3. Downdraught in chimneys or flues; this can also becaused by very long or circuitous flue runs, improper location of flue outlets or wind conditions
4. Improper installation or operation of equipment, chimneysor vents
5. Short stays in rented accommodation (e.g. flats, holidaycottages etc)
6. Air tightness of house envelope resulting in a lack of airfor the combustion process
7. Inadequate exhaust of space heaters or fuel-burningappliances
8. Vent fans/chimneys competing for air supply

Potential sources of carbon monoxide in your home/office:

How can you maintain your alarm?

An alarm is useful only if it works. The following illustration explains proper maintenance.

NOTE If a fault warning is shown after a manual or automatic self test contact our helpline on +44 (0)1452 887570

Mains alarms with 9V PP3 style Alkaline battery back up. i.e. CO850MBXi
The battery is expected to last at least 12 months.

Changing the battery (CO850MBXi).
Mains units with a replaceable battery backup the alarm will beep once every minute.
If this happens change the battery as follows:-

• 
  Battery replacement should only be done by a competent person.
• Turn off the electricity supply to the alarm.
• Remove it from the pattress or backplate by removing thescrews at the top and bottom of the alarm.
• Undo the screw on the battery door and remove the doorand the battery from the alarm. (see below) Replace the battery with a GP 1604A, Energiser 522, Duracell MN1604 or MX1604. Place the new battery inside the battery bay and refit the door and screw removed above.
• Test the alarm for correct operation using the test facilitywhenever the battery is replaced. Do this before turning on the main electricity supply.
  NOTE: The CO850MRLi has sealed Lithium Rechargeable battery backup. These batteries are not replaceable.
  

How can you test the alarm?

A green power light indicates that power is supplied. (See previous section).To test the alarm, press, hold and then release the Test/Reset button. A flashing red light will be accompanied by a repeating series of four beeps followed by a 5 second pause. Test weekly.
Test button will only function when alarm is fully installed on the pattress. This applies to all models Mi, MBXi and MRLi.

A Malfunctioning unit

In low battery mode the yellow light will flash with a short beep once every 60 seconds. If a circuitry or sensor fault occurs, the yellow light will stay permanently on and be accompanied by 2 short beeps every 60 seconds. Call Customer Services on +44 (0) 1452 887570 if this should happen.

If the green light is off (or not flashing every minute in battery mode) the alarm may be without power and therefore will not indicate a fault condition.
BRK Brands Europe Helpline +44 (0)1452 887570

Tips for the Homeowner

Energy Conservation and Indoor Air Quality
Two steps that homeowners take to conserve energy may adversely affect indoor air quality. Since air leakage can account for as much as 40% of heat loss, houses are being made more airtight. Reduced air leakage will contribute to higher concentrations of air contaminants from indoor sources and can cause draught reversal in the central heating boiler or fireplace chimney when the demand for air by fireplaces, central heating boilers and exhaust fans exceed the air supplied by leakage area and supply ducts.
Converting from oil to gas, without taking steps to prevent chimney deterioration, will increase the risk of chimney blockage, draught failure and the associated release of combustion products into the house. You should always use properly qualified Capita/Gas Safe registered gas installers.

Dirt and Blockage
Never insulate or try to seal up a draught hood, wind cap or exhaust vent on any gas appliance (central heating boiler, hot water heater, cooker, dryer or space heater). Keep area around appliances clean. Don't store anything that could restrict air circulation close to equipment. If you have a gas water heater, make sure that combustion air openings at the bottom of the tank and the opening below the draft diverter (on top of the tank next to the flue duct) remain unblocked. If you have a gas dryer, the exhaust duct must be vented to the outside and have a hood at the end. Check that the exhaust system is not blocked by lint or debris and that the flapper in the hood moves freely.
For all fuel-burning equipment, make sure that vent hoods and pipes are not blocked by insulation, leaves or bird nests. If you have pets, make sure that there is no build up of fur or hair around gas burners or aeration holes.

Using other equipment that consumes or exhausts household air
If you use exhaust fans, a fireplace or other fuel burning heaters or stoves:
Run exhaust fans for just a minute or two. Prolonged use could remove too much air, and it wastes heat.
If your appliance has a conventional flue, beware of running extraction fans when the gas appliance is on.
When your fireplace, coal or wood stove is operating, open a window and close off warm air registers in the room or install a fresh air duct directly to the fireplace or stove so that it won't steal air from your central heating boiler.

Confining or enclosing gas-fired equipment
If you have partitioned off your central heating boiler and water heater, you may need additional ventilation.

Danger Signs
Stuffy, stale or smelly air, back draughts and soot from a fireplace or boiler chimney usually means your home needs more air for proper combustion and healthy living.
For gas-fired equipment, mostly yellow (rather than clear blue) burner flames, a pilot light that keeps going out, or a smell of gas indicate trouble. Turn off the equipment and contact the gas emergency service, number in the telephone directory, under 'Gas'.

Additional Safety Tips

BRK Dicon/First Alert CO alarms are manufactured to the highest standards to ensure faultless operation and long life. The manufacturers do, however, recommend that no CO alarm should be used for more than twelve years, in order to minimise the chance of a fault occurring. This device requires no special disposal procedures and may be disposed of in household refuse. Have your fuel-burning equipment checked periodically for safety and efficiency by a qualified service engineer. If you are adding a wood or coal burning stove to a home, make sure that the stove is properly installed and vented.
Check with the Building Inspectors Department of your local council and always use a qualified (Capita/Gas safe registered) gas installer.
If you have already installed a wood or coal stove without building regulation approval, consult your local Building Control Officer. Some 'do-it-yourselfers' have unknowingly created dangerous conditions.
Do not expose yourself to carbon monoxide through carelessness. Never operate a petrol engine in a confined or enclosed space such as a garage or tool shed. Never use a paraffin stove or charcoal grill in a confined space such as a closed garage or caravan. On brick chimneys inspect and clean-out regularly to ensure that the chimney is free and clear of debris.
Regardless of the fuel your boiler, fireplace or stove uses, your chimney should be inspected from time to time by a competent person. Any 'Efficiency' devices must always be installed by a Capita/Gas Safe registered installer. When using paints, household cleaning supplies or similar materials, be sure that you're using them in a well-ventilated area. Following sensible maintenance and safety procedures in the home will give you fuel savings without endangering your health.

Installation

Where should you install the alarm?

Which room to put the alarm?
Ideally, you should have an alarm in or near every room that has a fuel-burning appliance. However, if you have more than one appliance, but only one alarm, you should take the following into consideration when deciding where best to put the alarm.

• If there is a fuel-burning appliance in the room where yousleep, you should put the alarm in that room.
• If there is a fuel-burning appliance in the room that youuse a lot. e.g. a sitting room, you should put it in that room.
• If you live in a bed-sit put the alarm as far away from thecooking appliances as possible, but near to the place where you sleep.
• If the fuel-burning appliance is in a room not normallyused (e.g. a boiler room) put the alarm just outside the room so that you will be able to hear the alarm more easily.

If the alarm is in the same room as the appliance:-
It should be mounted on or close to the ceiling at a height greater than that of any door or window. It should be at least 300mm from any wall, light fitting or any other obstruction. If mounted on a wall it should be at least 150mm from the ceiling. If mounted in a room with a sloped or gabled ceiling it should be at least I metre lower than the highest point of the room as long as that is above doors and windows.
If the alarm is in a room that is remote from the appliance, then the alarm should be in the breathing zone of the occupants.

• An alarm should be at least 1.8 metres (6 feet) from thefuel-burning appliance.

Do not put a CO alarm:

• Outside the building.
• In close proximity to a vehicle exhaust pipe; this willdamage the alarm.
• In or below a cupboard.
• In a damp or humid area.
• Near paint thinners, adhesives, polishes, aerosols, orhousehold cleaning products. Other substances may also affect the reliability of the unit.
• Directly above a sink or cooker.
• Next to a door window or extractor fan or anywhere that itwould be affected by draughts.
• In exhaust streams from gas engines, vents, flues orchimneys.
• Where it would be obstructed by curtains or furniture.
• In an area where the temperature could drop below -10ºCor rise to above 40ºC.
• Where humidity is less than 30% R.H. or more than 90%R.H.
• Where dirt or dust could block the sensor and stop itworking.
• Where it could be easily knocked or damaged, or where itcould be accidentally turned off or removed.

How should you install the alarm?

CO850MBXi
When inserting the battery for the first time remove the Battery Access Door (see section F) by sliding towards the side of the alarm. Remove the battery access door screw from the body of the alarm shown in section F. Remove the battery from the compartment and connect it to the flying lead found in the compartment. ONLY USE APPROVED BATTERIES, either Duracell MN1604, MX1604, GP 1604A or Energiser 522. Carefully insert the battery back into its compartment, refit the access door and secure with the screw removed above. When changing the battery in future remove the battery access door screw before opening the door. Test the alarm in accordance with section G.

For mains powered models Mi, MBXi. MRLi
This unit is designed for permanent connection to a 230240 VAC 50-60Hz supply. The maximum current draw is 45mA – select fuse accordingly.

Wiring should be installed only by a qualified electrician in accordance with the current IEE Wiring Regulations for Electrical Installations (BS7671).

The circuit used to power the alarm must be a 24 hour voltage circuit that cannot be turned off by a wall switch. It is recommended that CO alarms be wired on a separate circuit (ie one with no other lights or appliances) to ensure maximum reliability of mains power supply.

1. ELECTRICITY MUST BE TURNED OFF AT THE DISTRIBUTION BOARD BEFORE COMMENCING ANY WORK IN ORDER TO PREVENT ELECTRICAL SHOCK OR EQUIPMENT DAMAGE.
2. Select a suitable location in accordance with theguidance in section L of this manual and complying with the requirements set out above.
3. Remove CO alarm and pattress from packaging.
4. Place pattress at chosen location with the connectorblock uppermost. Mark and then drill holes for suitable fixings, corresponding to the slots in the base of the pattress.
5. Bring supply wires from mains into the pattress.
   N.B. The CO850 mains powered series are supplied complete with a pattress within which wiring connections are made and does not therefore require a junction box. The pattress is provided with knockouts in the base for entry from the back or an end port knockout for mini-trunking.
6. Secure pattress to mounting surface using suitablefixings.
   
7. Connect the incoming live wire to the terminal marked L,the incoming neutral wire to the terminal marked N and the incoming green and yellow earth wire into the unused terminal marked E.
   This alarm can be interlinked to 11 other CO alarms (12 in all). To interlink to another alarm connect the incoming wire used for the interlink connection to the terminal marked I The incoming wire must be rated the same as the incoming live and neutral.
   NOTE: NO connection should be made to the mains supply earth terminal. Simply secure the incoming earth wire at terminal marked E to prevent contact with live neutral or interlink wires.
8. Carefully offer the alarm up to the pattress ensuring theconnection pins locate into the sockets in the pattress.
9. Secure alarm to pattress using securing screws suppliedin a separate polythene bag.
   NOTE: MRLi model only. This version contains pre-charged, rechargeable Lithium ion batteries. On installation some alarms may chirp once a minute for up to 2 hours whilst the batteries 'top up'.
10. Turn electricity supply back on.
11. Ensure the green power light is on and then press thetest button. The alarm will sound 2 series of 4 beeps with red light followed by a single flash of the yellow and green lights.
12. If the alarm is interconnected to other CO alarms, pressing the test button on one alarm will cause the others to sound within a few seconds. The red light will only show on the originating alarm.

Technical information

Your alarm utilizes a proprietary Electronic Sensing Technology that permits the unit to vary the exposure time before the alarm sounds based on carbon monoxide concentrations.
The carbon monoxide concentrations and time standards for the alarms are as follows:

Guarantee Information

Limited Guarantee
Your alarm, excluding the battery in the CO850MBXi models, is warranted for 5 years from the date of purchase against defect in material and workmanship. Units returned to BRK Brands Europe Ltd with proof of purchase date during this period as a result of such defects will be repaired, or replaced at BRK Brands Europe Ltd's option, without charge. This warranty only covers defects in material or workmanship in normal residential use and does not cover damage resulting from negligent handling, misuse or lack of reasonable care.
YOUR ALARM IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR PROPERTY, DISABILITY OR OTHER INSURANCE OF ANY KIND. APPROPRIATE COVERAGE IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY, CONSULT YOUR INSURANCE AGENT.
This warranty does not affect a customer's statutory rights in any way.
In the event of a problem with your alarm or you have any questions concerning use and care of the product or concerning service, please consult your owners manual. If you require further help or clarification, please write:
BRK Brands Europe Ltd
Unit 6, Carter Court
Davy Way
Waterwells Business Park
Quedgeley
Gloucester
GL2 2DE United Kingdom www.brkdicon.eu

PLEASE KEEP THIS MANUAL IN A SAFE PLACE
Please note that specifications may be subject to change.

Please read and retain this owner's manual. When installing this alarm for use by others, please leave this manual or a copy with the end user and ensure they are fully conversant with its siting, operation and maintenance.