FireAngel THERMOPTEK ST-620 Manual

INTRODUCTION

Congratulations! You've made a wise investment in protecting your family and home. The ST-620 multi-criteria high performance detector is the ultimate alternative to traditional alarms. Groundbreaking Thermoptek technology combines the very latest in optical sensing with thermal enhancement, providing faster response to both fire types eliminating the need for ionisation sources which can be harmful to the environment. The Sprue Safety Products range of products is constantly being improved and expanded. Please visit www.fireangel.co.uk ; to find out about the latest additions to our range of innovative products.

This user manual contains important information regarding the operation of your FireAngel smoke alarm. Ensure you read this user manual fully before installing and operating the alarm. If you are installing this smoke alarm for use by others, you must leave this manual (or a copy of it) with the end user.

AUTOMATIC POWER ENGAGE

Your 10 year life smoke alarm is powered by an internal lithium power pack. To avoid unnecessary use of the power pack prior to installation, and to ease disposal when the alarm reaches the end of its life, the alarm is supplied with the power pack in a deactivated state. The power pack is automatically enabled when the alarm is fully locked on to the mounting plate.

This automatic power engage system only applies to the following 10 year smoke alarms: ST-620

Your alarm will not work until it is correctly located and secured on the mounting plate.

SENSOR TECHNOLOGY

Traditionally 3 types of senor technology have been used in domestic smoke alarms.
Optical smoke alarms are typically more effective at detecting slow burning fires.
Ionisation smoke alarms are generally more effective at detecting fast, flaming fires.
Heat alarms are triggered when room temperature reaches a set point (typically 56°C) these alarms are generally used in kitchens.

THERMOPTEK SENSOR TECHNOLOGY
This combines an optical sensing chamber with thermal enhancement. The alarm is effective at detecting slow burning fires, and constant monitoring of temperature changes enables the sensitivity of the alarm to be instantly increased thereby quickening the typical response time to fast flaming fires significantly.
Thermoptek alarms are "toast-proof" meaning they can be positioned in area close to kitchens that may be affected by cooking fumes. Heat alarms should be used in kitchens where required.

APPLICATION

Your FireAngel smoke alarm can be installed into a new build property as additional protection to an existing smoke detection system only. It cannot be used as a substitute for a hard wired system as required in new build properties. In this type of property the building regulations require alarms to be interlinked. You can obtain further information from your local fire service or building control department at your local council offices. These sources generally provide advice on new builds or projects that require planning permission.

Your smoke alarm typically meets the minimum requirements for family living units in existing buildings, as long as at least one unit is installed on each floor/level of your property.
In order to achieve the earliest fire warning, we recommend that a smoke alarm is fitted in all rooms where the temperature is normally between 4°C (40°F) and 38°C (100°F). Check the section on 'Positioning' to ensure that the smoke alarm is to be correctly positioned for the particular dwelling into which it is intended to be installed.

The alarm positions shown below are based on typical homes. Construction and layout of individual dwellings will vary, so this should be regarded only as a guide. Check with your local fire station for further guidance.

EXISTING HOMES
MINIMUM RECOMMENDATIONS
RECOMMENDED FOR ADDITIONAL PROTECTION

NOTE: Kitchens should be covered by a self contained heat detector.

Multi-family or mixed occupant residence (Tenancy building, student accommodation)
Your FireAngel smoke alarm can also be used in individual flats and bedsits, providing the same conditions are met as for a single-family residence. However, there must already be a primary fire detection system that meets regulatory requirements for common areas such as lobbies and hallways.

Institutions and Hotels
This includes motels, hospitals, day care facilities, long-term health care facilities, boarding houses and dormitories. Your smoke alarm can be used in individual sleeping/resident rooms, providing the same conditions are met as for a singlefamily residence. However, there must already be a primary fire detection system that meets regulatory requirements for common areas such as lobbies and hallways. Use of this smoke alarm in common areas may not provide sufficient fire warning to residents or meet regulatory requirements. This smoke alarm is designed to operate as a standalone smoke alarm.

This FireAngel smoke alarm will not communicate with other smoke alarms or fire alarm systems. It is not intended as a substitute for a complete alarm system.

Mobile Homes and Caravans
This smoke alarm is suitable for use in mobile homes and caravans.

Commercial and Industrial Premises
This smoke alarm is not intended for any non-residential, commercial or industrial application, nor for any other purpose than described above.

POSITIONING

Thermoptek smoke alarms are less prone to false alarms from cooking fumes, and are therefore suitable for locations near kitchens. However like other types of smoke alarms, thermoptek smoke alarms can be susceptible to nuisance alarms from steam and should not be located too close to bathrooms and showers.

It is recommended that your FireAngel smoke alarm is NOT to be fitted in the following locations:

• Bathrooms, shower-rooms, and other very damp or humid areas, where the moisture can cause unwanted alarms.
• Kitchens. Kitchen areas should be protected with self-contained Heat Alarms, as the combustion particles from cooking in kitchens will result in unwanted alarms and permanent contamination of the smoke alarm's sensor.
• In areas where excessive dust or dirt could contaminate the sensing chamber, making it over sensitive or impairing smoke entry.
• In areas where the ambient temperature is not controlled and may regularly drift below 4°C (40°F) or above 38°C (100°F) e.g. unheated buildings, open attic spaces.
• Very dirty, dusty or greasy areas.
• In very draughty areas, such as close to ceiling fans or fresh air vents. Draughts can blow smoke away from the alarm.
• In insect infested areas. Insects can clog openings to the sensing chamber, preventing smoke entry or causing unwanted alarms.
• Within 30cm (12") of a fluorescent light fitting which emits electrical 'noise' that can prevent correct alarm operation.
• In wall positions that are more than 30cm (12") away from the ceiling (see 'How to install your product').
• In 'dead air' spaces (see following diagram).
  
• Within 30cm (12") of light fittings or other ceiling based obstructions.

Prolonged exposure to temperatures outside those stated above will reduce product life.

WHAT ARE THE LIMITATIONS OF THE PRODUCT

Your FireAngel smoke alarm is designed to alert you by sounding an alarm when it senses smoke, i.e. it can only sense smoke and alert you if smoke reaches it! If a fire develops in an area remote from the location of the smoke alarm, such as another room or another level, smoke may not reach the smoke alarm in sufficient time or quantity to sense and alert you to the danger.

We recommend that as a minimum you install Thermoptek smoke alarms on every floor of your property. For comprehensive coverage a smoke alarm should also be fitted in every room.

This smoke alarm cannot be used to provide primary fire detection in common areas used by different residents such as blocks of flats and hotels. The FireAngel smoke alarm may not alarm before a fire causes damage, injury or death, as the smoke may not reach the smoke alarm in time. Examples include smoking in bed and violent gas explosions. This smoke alarm may not respond in a reasonable time if it is not installed in the best position, or if furniture or other obstacles are located between the smoke alarm and the fire.

Your smoke alarm will not operate without sufficient power.

As the alarm's power pack reaches the end of its life a low power warning chirp will be emitted every 40 seconds. When this occurs you must replace the unit within 7 days.

Smoke alarms are designed to alert you with an audible alarm at a level specified by the European Standard EN 14604:2005. Closed doors, walls and high ambient noise levels will reduce this level. Temporary or permanently impaired hearing may result in the alarm not being heard. Stereos, traffic and other loud sources may also prevent the alarm being heard. Heavy sleepers and residents under the influence of alcohol or drugs may also not hear or respond to the alarm. Test and check that you can hear the alarm in all circumstances. If in doubt install additional smoke alarms as required.

The Smoke alarm is not suitable for alerting hearing impaired residents. We recommend that specially designed warning systems be installed that will alert hearing impaired residents.

The smoke alarm accompanying this manual employs the latest technology and is independently tested as being compliant with all the relevant European Standards. However, as with any electronic product it may fail and may not sense all types of fire within sufficient time to alert you of the danger and provide adequate time for your escape. In order to maximise your level of safety always test your smoke alarm frequently to ensure it is in full working order. Your FireAngel smoke alarm is only suitable for use in domestic/ residential applications as covered in this manual. It is not suitable for commercial or industrial applications. It is designed to sense smoke and alert you. It will not sense carbon monoxide, flames, or gas. It will not prevent or extinguish fires.

This FireAngel smoke alarm has a limited life of 10 years and should not be considered as a substitute for life or property insurance. Like all electronic equipment, it can wear out or fail. It should be tested weekly and replaced immediately in the event of failure, and replaced every 10 years regardless.

HOW TO INSTALL YOUR PRODUCT

Make sure you have read and understood this manual before installing your smoke alarm.

1. Preparation
   The mounting plate should be attached to the ceiling or wall.
   Break out the tabs from the mounting plate. Use the fixing slots on the mounting plate as a guide when marking the position of the drill holes. With an appropriately sized drill, drill the holes and insert the plastic fixing anchors supplied (if needed).
   
2. Install Mounting Plate
   Fit the mounting plate to the ceiling or wall using the screws provided.
   
3. Fit Your FireAngel Smoke Alarm
   The alarm has a mechanism on the back that activates the alarm when it is correctly connected to the mounting plate. There are three lugs (hooks) on the back of the alarm that slide in to three slots on the mounting plate. When used with the new * (MP5) mounting plate included in this pack the alarm can be attached in any orientation, simply line up the lugs (hooks) with the holes at the end of the slots then twist the alarm clockwise until the alarm stops, make sure the alarm is twisted on fully.
   
   

Once the smoke alarm has been fitted onto the mounting plate correctly, the internal power pack will activate. The red LED on the front of the alarm should now flash once every 40 seconds to show that it is active.
* When attaching to some older FireAngel mounting plates, it is only possible for the alarm to be attached in one orientation. Contact the FireAngel Technical Support Team for advice if required (see "Troubleshooting")

4. Test Your FireAngel Smoke Alarm
   After fitting the alarm to the base plate, wait for 5 seconds for the alarm to settle then test the alarm. See 'Unit Test'.

OPERATION

Normal condition
The red LED on the front should flash every 40 seconds to show that the alarm is active.

Low Power Pack Condition

Your smoke alarm requires the power pack to have sufficient capacity of power to operate correctly.

Should your FireAngel smoke alarm enter a low power pack condition, the unit will emit an audible 'chirp' once every 40 seconds. When this occurs you must replace the alarm immediately. Your FireAngel smoke alarm will continue to warn of this low power pack condition for at least 7 days, however, failure to change the alarm after this time would mean your smoke alarm may have insufficient power to alert you in a real fire situation. When the alarm is removed from the mounting plate the power pack will automatically deactivate and the low power warning chirp should stop, allowing you to dispose of the alarm..

UNIT TEST

The alarm must be properly attached to the base plate before it can be tested

1. Press the test button in the centre and release.
   
2. The unit will give an audible alarm consisting of 2 cycles of 3 loud beeps, then stop automatically.
   
3. The red LED on your alarm will flash rapidly during the audible signal.
   

NOTE: The test button accurately tests the alarm's smoke sensing circuit, there is no need to test your alarm with smoke. If your smoke alarm fails to give an audible test signal, please refer immediately to the trouble shooting guide at the end of this manual.

As with all electronic alarm products you should test your smoke alarm every week.

SMART SILENCE

If your FireAngel smoke alarm emits the full alarm signal and you are not testing the unit, the smoke alarm is warning you of a potentially dangerous situation that requires your immediate attention. Only use the alarm silence function after making sure that there is no ongoing fire emergency situation. Do not block the vents on the alarm or disable the smoke alarm in any way, as this will remove your protection. Smoke alarms can sometimes react to cooking fumes or other non emergency situations. Your smoke alarm features "Smart Silence" technology. In the event of a known false alarm your smoke alarm can be temporarily silenced by pressing the central test button. Your alarm will automatically return to full sensitivity within 10 minutes.

NOTE: If the level of smoke reaching the alarm is very high the alarm silence will be overridden and the alarm will continue to sound.

1. Press and release the silence button, the alarm sound will shortly stop.
   
2. Your alarm will silence and enter into a reduced sensitivity reset cycle for approximately 10 minutes.
   
3. During the reduced sensitivity reset cycle, the red LED on your alarm will continue to flash more rapidly than normal, approximately once every second.
   
4. Your alarm will automatically return to full sensitivity on completion of the reset cycle and the red LED will revert to flashing once every 40 seconds.
   

Never ignore any alarm. Ignoring the alarm may result in injury or death. If your smoke alarm activates and alarms and you are not absolutely certain of the source of the smoke, get everyone out of the house immediately.

ROUTINE MAINTENANCE

Your FireAngel smoke alarm has been designed to be as maintenance-free as possible, however there are several things you must do to keep it working properly.

Your FireAngel smoke alarm is a sealed electrical device and no attempt should be made to open the case. Attempting to open the case will invalidate your Warranty.

Testing

Test your smoke alarm once every week see section 'Unit Test'. Any test failures should be reported to the FireAngel Technical Support Team (see Troubleshooting").

Cleaning

As a minimum your smoke alarm should be cleaned once every 3 months using your vacuum cleaner fitted with the soft brush attachment.

Your FireAngel smoke alarm may false alarm when it is being cleaned using a vacuum cleaner.

Do not use solvents or cleaners on your FireAngel smoke alarm, as they may cause damage to the sensor or circuitry. The unit can be wiped with a slightly damp cloth.

Do not paint the smoke alarm as this may block the openings and prevent smoke from entering the sensor.

WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF A FIRE IN YOUR HOME

• If you have made a family escape plan and practiced it with your family, you have increased their chances of escaping safely. Go over the following rules with your children each time you have fire drills. This will help everyone remember them in case of a real emergency.
• Don't panic, stay calm. Your safe escape may depend on thinking clearly and remembering what you have practiced.
• Notify every member in the residence of the fire.
• Get out of the house as quickly as possible. Follow a planned escape route. Do not stop to collect anything or to get dressed.
• Feel the doors to see if they are hot. If they are hot, do not open them – use an alternative escape route.
• Stay close to the floor. Smoke and hot gases rise.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a cloth (wet if possible). Take short, shallow breaths.
• Keep doors and windows closed. Open them only if you have to in order to escape.
• Meet at your planned meeting place after leaving the house. Carry out a head count.
• Call the Fire and Rescue Service on 999 as soon as possible from outside your house. If possible use a neighbours phone or call box rather than a mobile phone (as the location can be traced from the number if the line is lost, or the battery runs out for example).
• Give the address and your name.
• Never go back inside the building until a member of the fire service has told you it is safe to do so.

Contact your local Fire and Rescue Service. They will give you more ideas about how to make your home safer from fires and how to plan your family's escape.

REPAIR

DO NOT attempt to repair your FireAngel smoke alarm doing so will invalidate your warranty. If your smoke alarm is not operating properly, see the next section 'Troubleshooting'. If you cannot solve the problem, please call the Technical Support Line.
If your FireAngel smoke alarm is no longer under warranty, replace immediately with a comparable FireAngel brand smoke alarm.

TROUBLESHOOTING

HOW TO MAKE YOUR HOME SAFER

Installing smoke alarms is only one step in protecting your family from fires. You must also take steps to reduce the chances of fires starting in your home. If a fire does start, you must increase your chances of escaping.

To have a good fire safety program you must:

1. Install smoke alarms properly. Carefully follow ALL the instructions in this manual. Keep your smoke alarms clean, and test them every week.

SMOKE ALARMS THAT DO NOT WORK WILL NOT ALERT YOU.

2. Replace your smoke alarms immediately if they are not working properly.
3. Follow fire safety rules, and prevent hazardous situations:
   • Use smoking materials properly. Never smoke in bed.
   • Keep matches and cigarette lighters away from children.
   • Store flammable materials in proper containers. Never use them near an open flame or sparks.
   • Keep electrical appliances and wiring in good condition. Do not overload electrical circuits.
   • Keep cookers, fireplaces, chimneys, and barbecue grills grease free. Make sure they are properly installed, away from any combustible materials.
   • Keep portable heaters and open flames such as candles away from combustible materials.
   • Do not allow rubbish to accumulate inside your home as this provides sources for combustion.
   • Keep a supply of extra batteries on hand for your battery powered Smoke Alarms.
4. Develop a family escape plan and practice it with everyone in the household, including small children if you have them.
   • Draw a floor plan of your home, and find two ways to exit from each room. There should be one way to get out of each bedroom without opening the door, and alternate means of escape from an upper floor in the event of the stairs being blocked (such as a fire escape).
   • Make sure everyone recognises the smoke alarm signal and knows how to react to it.
   • If there are small children to consider it is important to explain to them what the smoke alarm signal means. Teach them that they must be prepared to leave the home by themselves if necessary. Show them how to check to see if doors are hot before opening them. Show them how to stay close to the floor and crawl if necessary. Show them how to use an alternative exit if the door is hot and should not be opened.
   • Decide on a meeting place a safe distance from your house. Again, if you have them, make sure that all your children understand that they should go and wait for you there if there is a fire.
   • Hold fire drills at least every 6 months to make sure that everyone, including small children, know what to do to escape safely.
   • Know where to go to call the Fire and Rescue Service from outside your home. Contact your local Fire and Rescue Service. They will give you more ideas about how to make your home safer from fires and how to plan your family's escape.

RETURNS

We recommend that you contact the FireAngel Technical Support Line in the first instance on 0800 141 2561, text phone users dial 18001 0800 141 2561 or callers from EIRE dial 1-800 523171. As we may be able to remedy the problem quickly over the phone (this is to prevent unnecessary returns that take a longer time to process). Alternatively e-mail:
technicalsupport@fireangel.co.uk

If there is a fault that we are unable to resolve then our technical support team member will provide you with a returns authority number so that your product can be returned for testing.

To return your FireAngel smoke alarm under warranty, send it suitably packed with the power pack deactivated (i.e. disconnect from mounting plate) with postage prepaid; a note indicating the returns authority number and describing the reason for return, with proof of purchase to:
Sprue Safety Products Limited
Vanguard Centre
Sir William Lyons Road
Coventry, CV4 7EZ
UK

PRODUCT RANGE

Sprue Safety Products manufacture an extensive range of home safety products including smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms, fire extinguishers and remote sounding devices. For more details visit www.sprue.com

Documents / Resources

References

• The Home of Connected Fire Safety | FireAngel

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