USER’S MANUAL
SMOKE & CARBON MONOXIDE ALARM
BATTERY POWERED WITH WIRELESS INTERCONNECT
AND VOICE & LOCATION
Model SMCO500V
IMPORTANT! PLEASE READ CAREFULLY AND SAVE.
The warnings/limitations card and manual contains important
information about your Smoke Alarm’s operation. If you are
installing this Alarm for use by others, you must leave this
manual—or a copy of it—with the end user.
Para el manual del usuario en español, por favor
visite rstalert.com
01
INTRODUCTION
Thank you for choosing First Alert
®
for your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm needs. You have
purchased a state-of-the-art Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm designed to help provide you with early
warning of a smoke and/or carbon monoxide danger. Please take the time to read this manual and
make the Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm an integral part of your family’s safety plan.
BASIC SAFETY INFORMATION
IMPORTANT!
• Dangers, Warnings, and Cautions alert you to important operating instructions or to potentially
hazardous situations. Pay special attention to these items.
• This Smoke/CO Alarm is approved for use in single-family residences. It is NOT designed for
marine or RV use.
! CAUTION!
• This combination Smoke/Carbon Monoxide Alarm has two separate Alarms. The CO Alarm is not
designed to detect re or any other gas. It will only indicate the presence of carbon monoxide
gas at the sensor. Carbon monoxide gas may be present in other areas. The Smoke Alarm will
only indicate the presence of smoke that reaches the sensor. The Smoke Alarm is not designed to
sense gas, heat or ames.
! WARNING!
• This Carbon Monoxide Alarm is designed to detect carbon monoxide gas from ANY source of
combustion. It is NOT designed to detect smoke, re or any other gas, unless the product has been
investigated and determined to comply with the applicable requirements.
• This Smoke/CO Alarm cannot operate without working batteries. Removing the batteries for any
reason, or failing to replace the batteries at the end of their service life, removes your protection.
• NEVER ignore any Alarm. See “If Your Smoke/CO Alarm Sounds” for more information on how to
respond to an Alarm. Failure to respond can result in injury or death.
• The Silence Features are for your convenience only and will not correct a problem. See “Using the
Silence Features” for details. Always check your home for a potential problem after any Alarm.
Failure to do so can result in injury or death.
• Test this Smoke/CO Alarm once a week. If the Alarm ever fails to test correctly, have it replaced
immediately! If the Alarm is not working properly, it cannot alert you to a problem.
• This product is intended for use in ordinary indoor locations of family living units. It is not designed
to measure CO levels in compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
commercial or industrial standards. Individuals with medical conditions that may make them more
sensitive to carbon monoxide may consider using warning devices which provide audible and
visual signals for carbon monoxide concentrations under 30 ppm. For additional information on
carbon monoxide and your medical condition contact your physician.
02
ABOUT SMOKE ALARMS
TYPES OF ALARMS
All these Smoke Alarms are designed to provide early warning of res 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
Smoke Alarm to install, refer the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standard 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 specic units in
new construction or in different areas of the home.
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. They do not, however, provide interconnected functionality.
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 qualied electrician.
Wireless Interconnected Alarms: Offer the same interconnected functionality as with hardwired
Alarms, without wires. Units are easy to install and do not require professional installation. They
provide protection even when electricity fails, provided the batteries are fresh and correctly installed.
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 batterypowered 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 First Alert
®
Smoke Alarms conform to regulatory requirements, including UL217 and are
designed to detect particles of combustion. Smoke particles of varying number and size are
produced in all res.
Ionization technology is generally more sensitive than photoelectric technology at
detecting small particles, which tend to be produced in greater amounts by aming res,
which consume combustible materials rapidly and spread quickly. Sources of these res
may include paper burning in a wastebasket, or a grease re in the kitchen.
Photoelectric technology is generally more sensitive than ionization technology at
detecting large particles, which tend to be produced in greater amounts by smoldering
res, which may smolder for hours before bursting into ame. Sources of these res may
include cigarettes burning in couches or bedding.
For maximum protection, use both types of Smoke Alarms on each level and in every
bedroom of your home.
03
INSTALLATION
WHERE TO INSTALL THIS ALARM
Minimum coverage for Smoke Alarms, as recommended by the National Fire Protection Association
(NFPA), is one Smoke Alarm on every oor, in every sleeping area, and in every bedroom (See
“Regulatory Information For Smoke Alarms” for details on the NFPA recommendations).
For CO Alarms, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends that a CO Alarm
should be centrally located outside of each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the
bedrooms. For added protection, install additional CO Alarms in each separate bedroom, and on every
level of your home.
NOTE: For added protection, install an additional Smoke/CO Alarm at least 15 feet (4.6 meters) away
from the furnace or fuel burning heat source where possible. In smaller homes or in manufactured
homes where this distance cannot be maintained, install the Alarm as far away as possible from the
furnace or other fuel burning source. Installing the Alarm closer than 15 feet (4.6 meters) will not harm
the Alarm, but may increase the frequency of unwanted Alarms.
IN GENERAL, INSTALL COMBINATION SMOKE AND CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS:
• On every level of your home, including nished 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 (12 meters) long, install a unit at each end.
• At the top of rst-to-second oor stairs.
• At the bottom of the basement stairs.
• For additional coverage, install Alarms in all rooms, halls, and storage areas, where temperatures
normally remain between 40˚ F and 100˚ F (4.4˚ C and 37.8˚ C).
RECOMMENDED PLACEMENT:
Smoke Alarm
One on every level and
in every bedroom
Carbon Monoxide Alarm
One on every level and
in every bedroom
Fire Extinguisher
One on every level, plus
kitchen and garage
• When installing on the wall, the top edge of Smoke Alarms should be placed between 4 inches
(102 mm) and 12 inches (305 mm) from the wall/ceiling line.
• When installing on the ceiling, place the Alarm as close to the center as possible.
• In either case, install at least 4 inches (102 mm) from where the wall and ceiling meet. See
“Avoiding Dead Air Spaces” for more information.
NOTE: For any location, make sure no door or other obstruction could keep carbon monoxide or smoke
from reaching the Alarm.
WHERE NOT TO INSTALL THIS ALARM
FOR BEST PERFORMANCE, IT IS RECOMMENDED YOU AVOID INSTALLING SMOKE/CO ALARMS
IN THESE AREAS:
•
In garages, furnace rooms, crawl spaces and unnished attics. Avoid extremely dusty, dirty
or greasy 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 (6 meter) 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.
• Within 5 feet (1.5 meters) of any cooking appliance. In air streams near kitchens. Air currents can
draw cooking smoke into the smoke sensor and cause unwanted Alarms.
• In extremely humid areas. This Alarm should be at least 10 feet (3 meters) from a shower, sauna,
humidier, vaporizer, dishwasher, laundry room, utility room, or other source of high humidity.
• In direct sunlight.
• In turbulent air, like near ceiling fans or open windows. Blowing air may prevent CO or smoke from
reaching the sensors.
• In areas where temperature is colder than 40˚ F (4.4˚ C) or hotter than 100˚F (37.8˚ C). These
areas include non-air conditioned crawl spaces, unnished attics, uninsulated or poorly insulated
ceilings, porches, and garages.
• In insect infested areas. Insects can clog the openings to the sensing chamber.
• Less than 12 inches (305 mm) away from uorescent lights. Electrical “noise” can interfere
with the sensor.
• In “dead air” spaces.
AVOIDING DEAD AIR SPACES
“Dead air” spaces may prevent smoke from reaching the Smoke Alarm. To avoid dead air spaces,
follow 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 rst 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.
WIRELESS OPERATION
First Alert
®
Wireless Interconnect Technology is the easy, cost-effective way to provide your family with
whole-home safety. Compatible Wireless Interconnect Alarms communicate with each other without
wires or connectors. When one Alarm sounds, they all sound. This provides your family with an earlier
warning of potential danger, and gives you more time to react.
The communication distance (range) between any two compatible Wireless Interconnect Alarms is
typically 100 feet (30 meters) inside of a home. Some features of a home, such as the number of
levels, number/size of rooms, furniture and types of building materials used may reduce the range of
the Alarms. Examples include: suspended ceilings, ductwork, large metallic appliances (refrigerators)
and metal studs. A feature of Wireless Interconnect Alarms is that they operate as a mesh network.
All Alarms will repeat any Alarm signal that is received to all other Wireless Interconnect Alarms.
Interference from structural conditions can be overcome by adding additional Alarms to route the
wireless signal around obstructions. A maximum of 18 compatible units may be interconnected
(Maximum of 12 Smoke Alarms). Compatible Wireless Interconnect Alarms: SMCO500V, SM500V.
IMPORTANT!
• The range and proper operation of any wireless device will vary depending 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.
• The Wireless Interconnect Alarms are not to be used outdoors or to transmit between buildings.
The Alarms will not communicate properly under these conditions.
• Metal objects and metallic wallpaper may interfere with signals from wireless Alarms. Alarms
should be tested after changes to your home such as remodeling, moving furniture, and with metal
doors opened and closed.
Your First Alert
®
Wireless Interconnect Smoke/CO Alarm will automatically communicate potential res
with all other compatible First Alert
®
Wireless Interconnect Smoke/CO Alarms.
HOW TO INSTALL THIS ALARM
IMPORTANT!
• This combination Smoke/CO Alarm was designed to be mounted on the ceiling or wall. It is
not a tabletop device. You must install this device on the ceiling or wall as outlined below.
Read “Where To Install This Alarm” before starting.
! CAUTION!
• Do not connect this unit to any other Alarm or auxiliary device. It is a single-station unit
that cannot be linked to other devices. Connecting anything else to this unit may prevent it
from working properly.
• Do not install this unit over an electrical junction box. Air currents around junction boxes
can prevent smoke from reaching the sensing chamber and prevent the unit from Alarming.
Only AC powered units are intended for installation over junction boxes.
This unit is designed to be mounted on the ceiling, or on the wall if necessary.
Tools you will need: pencil, drill with 3/16" (5 mm) drill bit,
standard athead screwdriver, hammer
THE PARTS OF THIS SMOKE/CO ALARM
1
Battery compartment, install batteries here
2
Test/Silence button
3
CO Alarm LED
4
Power/Smoke Alarm LED
5
Turn this way to remove
6
Turn this way to attach
7
Mounting bracket
8
Mounting slots
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
FOLLOW THESE SIMPLE STEPS
1. Choose a location. See “Where to Install
This Alarm” for reference.
WARNING! Do not install this Alarm
over an existing electrical box. Only
AC powered units are intended for
installation over electrical boxes.
2. Hold the mounting bracket against
the ceiling (or wall) so the vertical
mounting slot is aligned in the 12
o’clock position and trace around the
inside of the mounting slots (vertical and
horizontal mounting).
3. Put the unit where it won’t get
covered with dust when you drill the
mounting holes.
4. Using a 3/16" (5 mm) drill bit, drill a
hole through the center of the oval
outlines you traced.
5. Insert the plastic screw anchors (in the
plastic bag with screws) into the holes. Tap
the screw anchors gently with a hammer,
if necessary, until they are ush with the
ceiling or wall.
6. Line the mounting bracket up over
the plastic screw anchors. Screw the
mounting bracket to the ceiling or wall
through the mounting slots using the two
screws provided.
7. Install the batteries. First install the battery closest to the outside of the Alarm and then the battery
which is closer to the inside of the Alarm. Match the + and – orientation to that shown on the
Alarm. Push the batteries in until they snap securely. If the batteries are not snapped in completely,
the unit cannot receive battery power.
NOTE: After you install the batteries, there will be LED and horn activation prompts.
8. Position the base of the Alarm over the mounting bracket and turn. Turn the Alarm clockwise until
the unit is in place.
9. Test the Alarm. See “Weekly Testing.”
ADDING AND LINKING ADDITIONAL WIRELESS INTERCONNECT ALARMS
1.
Pick a unit to be the “Primary” unit. On that unit, insert the batteries into the battery drawer, then
close the drawer. You will hear a short chirp indicating the alarm is now activated. Follow the verbal
instructions or “Step by Step Guide To Programming This Alarm” section to set up the location.
2. Prep the “Secondary” units (all the
other detectors, minus the “Primary”
unit). Insert the batteries but KEEP THE
DRAWER OPEN. Press and hold test
button and close drawer at the same
time. Continue to hold the test button
until you hear a short chirp. The LED on
the alarm should now be blinking green.
3. Press and hold down the test button on the “Primary” unit. You should then hear the “Secondary”
units chirp or start talking. This will indicate they are paired.
4. If the unit has voice & location, follow the verbal instructions or “Step by Step Guide To
Programming This Alarm” section to set up the location.
5. Repeat steps 2-3 to link additional wireless interconnect alarms.
6. Press and hold the test button on any unit to test them. If you paired them successfully, they
should all start to test. Make sure you hold the test button down until each chirp or say “Testing”
(voice units only).
STEP BY STEP GUIDE TO PROGRAMMING THIS ALARM
For First Time and When Changing Batteries
Action Alarm Will Say
Insert batteries (2, AA batteries)
“Welcome, First Alert Carbon Monoxide
and Smoke Alarm.”
“No location programmed” if rst time or
“[Location, example: “Basement”] location
programmed” when changing batteries.
“To select location, press and hold
test button now.”
Press & hold test button if you would like
to program the location or change the
location of the Alarm. Release button after
Alarm responds.
“To save location, press and hold test
button after location is heard.” Alarm will
speak list of locations (see below).
After you hear the location of where
you are placing the Alarm, press & hold
the test button.
“[Location, example: “Basement”] location
saved.” If no location is chosen: “No
location saved.”
Your Alarm has now been programmed for the location of your choice.
Available Locations: Basement, Hallway, Ofce, Child’s Bedroom, Kitchen, Utility Room,
Dining Room, Living Room, Family Room, Master Bedroom, Guest Bedroom, No Location.
Action What You Will See & Hear
Under Normal Operations
Voice: Silent; Horn: Silent; Power/Smoke LED:
Flashes Green once approximately every 45
seconds; CO Led: Off
When You Test the Alarm
Horn: Chirp; Voice: Testing; For 12 seconds: Horn: 3
beeps, pause, repeats 2 more times; Power/Smoke
LED: Flash Green THEN Horn: 3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps;
Power/Smoke LED: Red in sync with horn; Voice:
“Warning, evacuate smoke in [Location]. Evacuate.”
Horn: 4 fast beeps, pause, 4 fast beeps; Voice:
“Warning, evacuate carbon monoxide in [Location,
example: “Basement”]. Evacuate.” Pause. “Highest
carbon monoxide level was [CO level example: _0_
ppm].”; Power/Smoke LED: Off; CO LED: Flashes Red
in sync with the horn pattern
If Battery Becomes Low
Voice: “Replace battery in [Location, example “Hallway”].”
Repeated every 5 hours; Horn: chirps approximately
every 45 seconds; Power/Smoke LED: Flashes Green
approximately every 45 seconds; CO LED: Off
If Alarm is Not
Operating Properly
Voice: “Detector error in [Location, example “Hallway”],
please see manual.” Repeated every 5 hours; Horn: 3
chirps approximately every 45 seconds; Power/Smoke
LED: Flashes Green in sync with horn; CO LED: Off
Alarm has reached
its End of Life
Voice: “Detector error in [Location, example
“Basement”], please see manual.” Repeated every 5
hours; Horn: 5 chirps approximately every 45 seconds;
Power/Smoke LED: Flashes Green in sync with
horn; CO LED: Off
Alarm Levels of
CO are Detected
Voice: “Warning, evacuate carbon monoxide in
[Location]. Evacuate.”; Horn: 4 beeps, pause, 4 beeps,
repeat. Voice; Power/Smoke LED: Steady Green for
rst 12 seconds, then ashes Green once approximately
every 45 seconds; CO LED: Red in sync with horn
Smoke is Detected
For 12 seconds: Horn: 3 beeps, pause, repeats 2 more
times; Power/Smoke LED: Flashes Green THEN Horn:
3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps.; Power/Smoke LED: Red in
sync with horn; Voice: “Warning, evacuate smoke in
[Location]. Evacuate.”
Smoke Alarm is Silenced
Voice: “Horn silenced. Detector active.”; Horn: Silent
(for up to 15 minutes); Power/Smoke LED: Flashes Red
2 sec On/ 2 sec Off; CO LED: Off
CO Alarm is Silenced
Voice: “Horn silenced. Detector active.”; Horn: Silent
(for up to 4 minutes); Power/Smoke LED: Off; CO
LED: Flashes Red
04
ALARM FEATURES
• Early Warning Interconnect: When one Alarm sounds, all compatible Alarms sound.
• Voice & Location Alerts: Friendly voice tells you what the danger is and its location.
• End of Life Warning: Lets you know when it’s time to replace.
LATCHING FEATURE
Alarm Latch is activated after an Alarm is exposed to Alarm levels of smoke or carbon
monoxide. After smoke or CO levels drop below Alarm levels, the Red Smoke/Power
LED and/or the CO LED will begin to ash red On for 2 seconds/Off for 2 seconds. It will
continue to ash or “latch” for about 15 minutes, to give you time to determine which unit
initiated the Alarm.
Low Battery Latch is activated when the Alarm is in the “low battery condition”. When this
occurs, the Smoke/Power LED ashes 2 seconds Green On for 2 seconds/Off for 2 seconds
for about 15 minutes. This feature is designed to help you identify which Alarm needs to have
the battery replaced. Although, the Alarm will sound the low battery chirp approximately once
every minute, sometimes during the initial stages of “low battery”, the Alarm will chirp in
greater intervals than one minute, sometimes up to several hours, until the battery reaches a
steady low battery level. This innovative feature eliminates the frustration of waiting for and/or
identifying which unit is chirping.
TO LOCK THE BATTERY COMPARTMENT
Do not lock the battery compartment until you have installed the battery and
tested the Alarm.
IMPORTANT!
If the unit does not Alarm during testing,
DO NOT lock the battery compartment!
Install a new battery and test again. If
the Alarm still does not Alarm, replace
it immediately.
1. Using needle-nose pliers, detach one
locking pin from the mounting bracket.
2. After batteries are inserted, push
the locking pin through the hole
near the battery door latch on the
back of the Alarm.
TO UNLOCK THE BATTERY COMPARTMENT
1. Remove the Alarm from the mounting
bracket. If the unit is locked to the
bracket, see the section “To Unlock the
Mounting Bracket.”
2. Insert a athead 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.)
3. To relock the battery compartment,
close the battery door and reinsert
locking pin in lock.
4. Reattach the Alarm to the
mounting bracket.
IMPORTANT!
When replacing the batteries, always
test the Alarm before relocking the
battery compartment.
OPTIONAL LOCKING FEATURE
The optional locking feature is designed to prevent unauthorized removal of the Alarm. It is
not necessary to activate the lock in single-family households where unauthorized Alarm
removal is not a concern.
Tools you will need: Needle-nose
pliers or utility knife, standard
athead screwdriver
The feature uses a locking pin
which is molded into the mounting
bracket. Remove locking pin
by using needle-nose pliers or
a utility knife.
IMPORTANT!
To permanently remove the locking pin, insert a athead screwdriver between the
locking pin and the lock and pry the pin out of the lock.
TO LOCK THE MOUNTING BRACKET
1. Using needle-nose pliers,
detach the pin from the
mounting bracket.
2. Insert the locking pin
through the hole on the
back of the Smoke Alarm
as shown in the diagram.
3. When you attach the
Alarm to the mounting
bracket the locking pin’s
head will t into a notch
on the bracket.
TO UNLOCK THE MOUNTING BRACKET
1. Insert a athead
screwdriver in between
the mounting bracket and
the locking pin.
2. Pry the Alarm away from
the bracket by pushing
up the screwdriver
and turning the Alarm
counterclockwise (left)
at the same time.
05
TESTING & MAINTENANCE
WEEKLY TESTING
! WARNING!
• NEVER use an open ame of any kind to test this unit. You might accidentally damage or set re
to the unit or to your home. NEVER use vehicle exhaust! Exhaust may cause permanent damage
and voids your warranty.
• DO NOT stand close to the Alarm when the horn is sounding. Exposure at close range may be
harmful to your hearing. When testing, step away when horn starts sounding.
! CAUTION!
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/CO Alarm.
You can test this Smoke/CO Alarm by pressing and holding the Test/Silence button on the Alarm cover
until Alarm voice says “Testing” (typically 3-5 seconds).
If the unit does not Alarm, make sure the batteries are correctly installed, and test again. If the
unit still does not Alarm, replace it immediately.
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.
• Test it at least once a week.
• Clean the Smoke/CO Alarm at least once a month; gently vacuum the outside of the Smoke/CO
Alarm using your household vacuum’s soft brush attachment. A can of clean compressed air (sold
at computer or ofce supply stores) may also be used. Follow manufacturer instructions for use.
Test the Smoke/CO Alarm. Never use water, cleaners or solvents since they may damage the unit.
• If the Smoke/CO Alarm becomes contaminated by excessive dirt, dust and/or grime, and cannot be
cleaned to avoid unwanted Alarms, replace the unit immediately.
• Relocate the unit if it sounds frequent unwanted Alarms. See “Where This Alarm Should Not Be
Installed” for details.
• Protect or cover the alarm when doing any maintenance to home i.e. sanding oors, painting,
drywall patching, etc. to prevent contamination.
CHOOSING A REPLACEMENT BATTERY:
Your Smoke/CO Alarm requires two standard AA batteries. The following batteries are acceptable as
replacements: Eveready Energizer E91 or Duracell MN1500. These batteries are available at many
local retail stores.
! WARNING!
• Always use the exact batteries specied by this User’s Manual. DO NOT use rechargeable
batteries. Clean the battery contacts and also those of the device prior to battery installation.
Install batteries correctly with regard to polarity (+ and -).
• Please dispose of or recycle used batteries properly, following any local regulations. Consult your
local waste management authority or recycling organization to nd an electronics recycling facility
in your area. DO NOT DISPOSE OF BATTERIES IN FIRE. BATTERIES MAY EXPLODE OR LEAK.
! WARNING!
• Keep battery out of reach of children. In the event a battery is swallowed, immediately contact
your poison control center, your physician, or the National Battery Ingestion hotline at
202-625-3333 as serious injury may occur.
IMPORTANT!
Actual battery service life depends on the Smoke/CO Alarm and the environment in which it is
installed. All the batteries specied 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 “low battery warning”).
To replace the batteries (without removing Alarm from the ceiling or wall):
1. Open the battery compartment.
2. Press tabs A and B as shown in the diagram
and remove each battery.
3. Insert the new batteries, making sure
they snap completely into the battery
compartment. Match the terminals
on the ends of the batteries with the
terminals on the unit.
4. Close the battery compartment, and then test
the unit by pressing the Test/ Silence button.
A
B
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
IF THE ALARM... PROBLEM… YOU SHOULD...
Horn “chirps” about
once every 45 seconds.
Voice: “Replace battery in
[Location]” every 5 hours
Power/Smoke LED: Flashes
Green 2 sec on/ 2 sec off
Low battery warning.
Install two
new AA batteries*.
Horn sounds three “chirps”
approximately every 45
seconds; Voice: “Detector
error in [Location, example
“Hallway”], please see
manual” repeated every
5 hours; Power/Smoke
LED: Flashes Green
in sync with horn
MALFUNCTION SIGNAL.
Device is not working
properly, and needs
to be replaced.
If unit is under warranty,
contact Consumer
Support to process a
warranty replacement.
Horn: “chirps” 5 times
approximately every 45
seconds; Voice: “Detector
error in [Location, example
“Basement”], please
see manual.” Repeated
every 5 hours.; Power/
Smoke LED: Flashes Green
in sync with horn
END OF LIFE SIGNAL.
Alarm needs
to be replaced.
Immediately
replace the Alarm.
The Alarms are linked
but do not communicate
with each other.
Possible interference.
Reference the Wireless
Operation section
of this manual.
Move Alarms to different
locations. Add an additional
Alarm between the
unresponsive Alarms
to route the signal
around obstructions.
CARBON MONOXIDE ALARM ONLY
CO Alarm goes back into
Alarm 4 minutes after
you Silence it.
CO levels indicate
a potentially
dangerous situation.
IF YOU ARE FEELING
SYMPTOMS OF CO
POISONING, EVACUATE
your home and call 911
or the Fire Department.
Refer to “If The CO Alarm
Sounds” for details.
CO Alarm sounds frequently
even though no high levels
of CO are revealed in
an investigation.
The CO Alarm may be
improperly located. Refer
to “Where to Install This
Alarm” for details.
Relocate your Alarm. If
frequent Alarms continue,
have home rechecked for
potential CO problems. You
may be experiencing an
intermittent CO problem.
SMOKE ALARM ONLY
Smoke Alarm sounds when
no smoke is visible.
Unwanted Alarm may
be caused by non-
emergency source
Silence Alarm using Test/
Silence button; clean the
Alarm’s cover with a soft,
clean cloth. If frequent
unwanted Alarms continue,
relocate your Alarm. Alarm
may be too close to a
kitchen, cooking appliance,
or steamy bathroom.
*For a list of acceptable replacement batteries, see “Regular Maintenance.”
If you have questions that cannot be answered by reading this manual, call the
Consumer Support Team at 1-800-323-9005.
FIRE SAFETY TIPS
Follow safety rules and prevent hazardous situations: 1) Use smoking materials properly. Never smoke
in bed. 2) Keep matches or lighters away from children; 3) Store ammable materials in proper
containers; 4) Keep electrical appliances in good condition and don’t overload electrical circuits;
5) Keep stoves, barbecue grills, replaces and chimneys grease- and debris-free; 6) Never leave
anything cooking on the stove unattended; 7) Keep portable heaters and open ames, like candles,
away from ammable materials; 8) Don’t let rubbish accumulate. Keep Alarms clean, and test them
weekly. Replace Alarms immediately if they are not working properly. Smoke Alarms that do not work
cannot alert you to a re. Keep at least one working re extinguisher on every level, and an additional
one in the kitchen. Have re escape ladders or other reliable means of escape from an upper level in
case stairs are blocked; 9) Have an escape plan and practice it regularly.
06
IF YOUR SMOKE/CO ALARM SOUNDS
WHAT TO DO FIRST–IDENTIFY THE TYPE OF ALARM SIGNAL
Type of Alarm What You See and Hear
Carbon Monoxide (CO)
Voice: “Warning, evacuate carbon monoxide in
[Location, example: “Hallway”]. Evacuate.” “____
ppm.”; Horn: 4 beeps, pause, 4 beeps, voice;
LED: Flashes Red
Smoke
Voice: “Warning, evacuate smoke in [Location,
example: “Hallway”]. Evacuate.”; Horn: 3 beeps, pause,
3 beeps, voice; LED: Flashes Red
IF THE CO ALARM SOUNDS
“ALARM-MOVE TO FRESH AIR”
If you hear the CO Alarm horn and the CO red light is ashing, move everyone to a
source of fresh air. DO NOT remove the batteries!
! WARNING!
Actuation of your CO Alarm indicates the presence of carbon monoxide (CO) which can kill you. In
other words, when your CO Alarm sounds, you must not ignore it!
IF THE CO ALARM SIGNAL SOUNDS:
1. Press the Test/Silence button.
2. Call your emergency services, re 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 Alarm remains in its normal condition.
4. After following steps 1-3, if your CO Alarm reactivates within a 24-hour period, repeat steps
1-3 and call a qualied appliance technician to investigate for sources of CO from fuel-burning
equipment and appliances, and inspect for proper operation of this equipment. If problems are
identied 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 qualied appliance technician here:
____________________________________________________________________
NOTE: A qualied appliance technician is dened as “a person, rm, corporation, or company that
either in person or through a representative, is engaged in and responsible for the installation, testing,
servicing, or replacement of heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) equipment, combustion
appliances and equipment, and/or gas replaces or other decorative combustion equipment.”
AFTER AN ALARM
After the emergency responders arrive, the premises aired out, and your CO Alarm
remains in its normal condition, you can check what the highest carbon monoxide
level sensed was:
Action Alarm Will Say
Press & Hold Test button
“Highest carbon monoxide level was ___
ppm. Please see manual.”
“To clear highest carbon monoxide level,
press and hold test button now.”
Press & Hold Test button, if you would like to
clear the highest level sensed. If you would
like to keep the highest level in memory, do
not press anything.
“Highest carbon monoxide
level cleared.”
Alarm will say nothing.
“SMART INTERCONNECT” FEATURE
This Alarm includes “Smart Interconnect” which enables the Alarm to be interconnected with other
First Alert
®
Smoke, Heat and “Smart Interconnect” CO Alarms. When smoke is detected, all Alarms
will sound the smoke horn pattern. When CO is detected, “Smart Interconnect” Alarms will sound
the CO horn pattern. Alarms that do not have the “Smart Interconnect” feature will remain silent
during a CO Alarm.
IF THE SMOKE ALARM SOUNDS:
RESPONDING TO AN ALARM
! WARNING!
• 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 remove the batteries from a battery operated Smoke/CO Alarm to stop an unwanted Alarm
(caused by cooking smoke, etc.). Removing batteries disables the Alarm so it cannot sense smoke,
and removes your protection. Instead open a window or fan the smoke away from the unit. The
Alarm will reset automatically.
• If the unit Alarms get everyone out of the house immediately.
WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF FIRE
• Don’t panic; stay calm. Follow your family escape plan.
• Get out of the house as quickly as possible. Don’t stop to get dressed or collect anything.
• Feel doors with the back of your hand before opening them. 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.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a cloth (preferably damp). Take short, shallow breaths.
• Meet at your planned meeting place outside your home, and do a head count to make sure
everybody got out safely.
• Call the Fire Department as soon as possible from outside. Give your address, then your name.
• Never go back inside a burning building for any reason.
• Contact your Fire Department for ideas on making your home safer.
! WARNING!
Alarms have various limitations. See “General Limitations of Smoke/CO Alarms” for details.
07
USING THE SILENCE FEATURES
! WARNING!
Never remove the batteries to quiet an unwanted Alarm. Removing the batteries disables the
Alarm and removes your protection.
The Silence Feature is intended to temporarily silence the horn while you identify and correct the
problem. Do not use the Silence Feature in emergency situations. It will not correct a CO problem or
extinguish a re.
The Silence Feature can temporarily quiet an unwanted Alarm for several minutes. You can silence
this Smoke/CO Alarm by pressing the Test/ Silence button on the Alarm cover for at least 3-5 seconds.
After the Test/Silence button is released, the Red LED blinks during the silence mode. Activate the
Alarm test, reset or silence function by use of a nger or thumb. Use of any other instrument is
strictly prohibited.
When the Smoke Alarm is Silenced When the CO Alarm is Silenced
The Smoke Alarm will remain silent for up to
15 minutes, then return to normal operation.
If the smoke has not cleared–or continues to
increase–the device will go back into Alarm.
The CO Alarm will remain silent for
up to 4 minutes.
After 4 minutes, if CO levels remain
potentially dangerous the horn will start
sounding again.
SILENCING THE LOW BATTERY WARNING
This Silence Feature can temporarily quiet the low battery warning “chirp” for 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 ash the Green
light approximately every 45 seconds for 8 hours. After 8 hours, the low battery “chirp” will resume.
Replace the batteries as soon as possible; this unit will not operate without battery power!
To deactivate this feature:
Press the Test/Silence button again. The unit will go into Test Mode and the
low battery warning will resume (LED ashes and unit sounds “chirp” approximately every 45 seconds).
SILENCING THE END OF LIFE SIGNAL
This Silence Feature can temporarily quiet the End of Life warning “chirp” for up to 2 days, up to a
total of 14 days. You can silence the End of Life warning “chirp” by pressing the Test/Silence button.
The horn will chirp, acknowledging that the End of Life Silence Feature has been activated. After
approximately 2 days, the End of Life “chirp” will resume.
08
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CO
WHAT IS CO?
CO is an invisible, odorless, tasteless gas produced when fossil fuels do not burn completely, or are
exposed to heat (usually re). Electrical appliances typically do not produce CO.
These fuels include: Wood, coal, charcoal, oil, natural gas, gasoline, kerosene, and propane.
Common appliances are often sources of CO. If they are not properly maintained, are improperly
ventilated, or malfunction, CO levels can rise quickly. CO is a real danger now that homes are more
energy efcient. “Air-tight” homes with added insulation, sealed windows, and other weatherproong
can “trap” CO inside.
SYMPTOMS OF CO POISONING
These symptoms are related to CO POISONING and should be discussed with ALL household members.
Mild Exposure: Slight headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue (“u-like” symptoms).
Medium Exposure: Throbbing headache, drowsiness, confusion, fast heart rate.
Extreme Exposure: Convulsions, unconsciousness, heart and lung failure. Exposure to carbon
monoxide can cause brain damage, death.
IMPORTANT!
This CO Alarm 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
Alarm 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. Also, young
children and pets may be the rst affected. The average healthy adult might not feel any symptoms
when the CO Alarm 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!
FINDING THE SOURCE OF CO AFTER AN ALARM
Carbon monoxide is an odorless, invisible gas, which often makes it difcult to locate the source of CO
after an Alarm. These are a few of the factors that can make it difcult to locate sources of CO:
• House well ventilated before the investigator arrives.
• Problem caused by “backdrafting.”
• Transient CO problem caused by special circumstances.
Because CO may dissipate by the time an investigator arrives, it may be difcult to locate the
source of CO. First Alert shall not be obligated to pay for any carbon monoxide investigation
or service call.
POTENTIAL SOURCES OF CO IN THE HOME
Fuel-burning appliances
like: portable heater, gas or
wood burning replace, gas
kitchen range or cooktop,
gas clothes dryer.
Damaged or insufcient venting:
corroded or disconnected water
heater vent pipe, leaking chimney
pipe or ue, or cracked heat
exchanger, blocked or clogged
chimney opening.
Improper use of appliance/
device: operating a barbecue grill
or vehicle in an enclosed area (like
a garage or screened porch).
Transient CO Problems: “transient” or on-again-off-again CO problems can be caused by outdoor
conditions and other special circumstances.
The following conditions can result in transient CO situations:
1. Excessive spillage or reverse venting of fuel appliances caused by outdoor conditions such as:
Wind direction and/or velocity, including high, gusty winds. Heavy air in the vent pipes (cold/humid air
with extended periods between cycles).
• Negative pressure differential resulting from the use of exhaust fans.
• Several appliances running at the same time competing for limited fresh air.
• Vent pipe connections vibrating loose from clothes dryers, furnaces, or water heaters.
• Obstructions in or unconventional vent pipe designs which can amplify the above situations.
2. Extended operation of unvented fuel burning devices (range, oven, replace).
3. Temperature inversions, which can trap exhaust close to the ground.
4. Car idling in an open or closed attached garage, or near a home.
These conditions are dangerous because they can trap exhaust in your home. Since these
conditions can come and go, they are also hard to recreate during a CO investigation.
09
HOW CAN I PROTECT MY FAMILY FROM
CO POISONING
A CO Alarm 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. A CO Alarm 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 ues yearly. Keep them free of debris, leaves, and nests for proper air ow.
Also, 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 ow.
• Test and maintain all fuel-burning equipment annually. Many local gas or oil companies and HVAC
companies offer appliance inspections for a nominal fee.
• Make regular visual inspections of all fuel-burning appliances. Check appliances for excessive rust
and scaling. Also check the ame on the burner and pilot lights. The ame should be blue. A yellow
ame 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 backow 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 signicantly 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 CO Alarm sounds.
10
REGULATORY INFORMATION FOR
SMOKE ALARMS
RECOMMENDED LOCATIONS FOR SMOKE ALARMS
INSTALLING SMOKE ALARMS IN SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENCES
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), recommends one Smoke Alarm on every oor, 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 coverage, it is
recommended that you install a Smoke Alarm in all rooms, halls, storage areas, nished 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 nished attics and basements.
• Inside every bedroom, especially if people sleep with doors closed.
• In the hall near every sleeping area. If your home has multiple sleeping areas, install a unit in each.
• If a hall is over 40 feet (12 meters) long, install an Alarm at each end.
• At the top of the rst-to-second oor stairway, and at bottom of basement stairway.
IMPORTANT!
Specic 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 interconnected for added protection.
