Use and Care Manual

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USER’S MANUAL
AC POWERED PHOTO & ION
SMOKE ALARM WITH BATTERY
BACK-UP AND SILENCE
IMPORTANT! PLEASE READ CAREFULLY AND SAVE.
This user’s manual contains important information about your Smoke
Alarm’s operation. 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.
Input: 120V AC ~, 60Hz, 0.07A
Battery Back-Up
Silence Features
Printed in Mexico
M08-0224-153449-3120B-US K1 9/16
CONFORMS
TO UL STD 217
Model 3120B
© 2016 BRK Brands, Inc. All rights reserved. Distributed by BRK Brands, Inc.
•
BRK Brands, Inc. is a
subsidiary of Newell Brands Inc. (NYSE:NWL)
•
First Alert
®
is registered trademark of The First Alert
Trust
•
3901 Liberty Street Road, Aurora, IL 60504-8122
•
Consumer Affairs: [phone]
www.firstalert.com
•
www.brkelectronics.com
All First Alert
®
and BRK
®
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 fires.
Ionization technology is generally more sensitive than photoelectric technology at
detecting small particles, which tend to be produced in greater amounts by flaming
fires, which consume combustible materials rapidly and spread quickly. Sources of
these fires may include paper burning in a wastebasket, or a grease fire 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 fires, which may smolder for hours before bursting into flame.
Sources of these fires 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.
INTRODUCTION
Thank you for choosing First Alert
®
for your Smoke Alarm needs. You have purchased a
state of the art Smoke Alarm designed to provide you with an early warning of a fire. Please
take the time to read this manual and make this Smoke Alarm an integral part of your
family’s safety plan. Key Features of the 3120B Photo & Ion Combo Smoke Alarm:
Photo & Ion Smoke Sensors: Dual photoelectric and ionization smoke sensing technologies
for optimal sensing of smoke particles produced in both flaming and smoldering fires.
Optipath 360 Technology™: Patented technology provides
360˚ of direct access to the smoke sensor.
Two Silence Features: Low Battery Silence temporarily silences low battery chirp for up to eight
hours before replacing low battery. Alarm Silence silences an unwanted alarm for several minutes.
Two Latching Features: Alarm Latch remembers which unit initiated an alarm.
Low Battery Latch visually identifies which unit is in low battery condition.
Perfect Mount: Mounting bracket keeps alarm secure over a
wide rotation range to allow for perfect alignment.
Battery back-up: Keeps alarm functioning during a power interruption
provided batteries are fresh and installed properly.
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 flammable materials in
proper containers; 4) Keep electrical appliances in good condition and don’t overload electrical
circuits; 5) Keep stoves, barbecue grills, fireplaces and chimneys grease- and debris-free; 6)
Never leave anything cooking on the stove unattended; 7) Keep portable heaters and open
flames, like candles, away from flammable 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 fire. Keep at least one working
fire extinguisher on every floor, and an additional one in the kitchen. Have fire escape ladders
or other reliable means of escape from an upper floor in case stairs are blocked.
BEFORE YOU INSTALL THIS SMOKE ALARM
Important! Read “Recommended Locations for Smoke Alarms” and “Locations to Avoid for
Smoke Alarms” before beginning. This unit monitors the air, and when smoke reaches its
sensing chamber, it alarms. It can give you more time to escape before fire spreads. This
unit can ONLY give an early warning of developing fires if it is installed, maintained and
located where smoke can reach it, and where all residents can hear it, as described in this
manual. This unit will not sense gas, heat, or flame. It cannot prevent or extinguish fires.
UNDERSTAND THE DIFFERENT TYPE OF SMOKE ALARMS
Battery powered or electrical? Different Smoke Alarms provide different
types of protection. See “About Smoke Alarms” for details.
KNOW WHERE TO INSTALL YOUR SMOKE ALARMS
Fire Safety Professionals recommend at least one Smoke Alarm on every level of your home, in
every bedroom, and in every bedroom hallway or separate sleeping area. See “Recommended
Locations For Smoke Alarms” and “Locations To Avoid For Smoke Alarms” for details.
KNOW WHAT SMOKE ALARMS CAN AND CAN’T DO
A Smoke Alarm can help alert you to fire, giving you precious time to escape. It can only sound
an alarm once smoke reaches the sensor. See “Limitations of Smoke Alarms” for details.
CHECK YOUR LOCAL BUILDING CODES
This Smoke Alarm is designed to be used in a typical single-family home. It
alone will not meet requirements for boarding houses, apartment buildings,
hotels or motels. See “Special Compliance Considerations” for details.
ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD. Turn off the power to the area where the Smoke
Alarm is installed before removing it from the mounting bracket. Failure to turn
off the power first may result in serious electrical shock, injury or death.
• This unit will not alert hearing impaired residents. It is recommended
that you install special units which use devices like flashing
strobe lights to alert hearing impaired residents.
• Installation of this unit must conform to the electrical codes in your area; Articles
210 and 300.3 (B) of NFPA 70 (NEC), NFPA 72, NFPA 101; SBC (SBCCI); UBC
(ICBO); NBC (BOCA); OTFDC (CABO), and any other local or building codes that
may apply. Wiring and installation must be performed by a licensed electrician.
Failure to follow these guidelines may result in injury or property damage.
• This unit must be powered by a 24-hour, 120VAC pure sine wave 60Hz
circuit. Be sure the circuit cannot be turned off by a switch, dimmer, or
ground fault circuit interrupter. Failure to connect this unit to a 24-hour
circuit may prevent it from providing constant protection.
• This Smoke Alarm must have AC or battery power to operate. If the AC power
fails, battery back-up will allow the alarm to sound for at least 4 minutes. If AC
power fails and the battery is weak, protection should last for at least 7 days. If
AC power fails and the battery is dead or missing, the alarm cannot operate.
• Never disconnect the power from an AC powered unit to stop an unwanted
alarm. Doing so will disable the unit and remove your protection. In the
case of a true unwanted alarm open a window or fan the smoke away
from the unit. The alarm will reset automatically when it returns to normal
operation. Never remove the batteries from a battery operated unit to stop
an unwanted alarm (caused by cooking smoke, etc.). Instead open a window
or fan the smoke away from the unit. The alarm will reset automatically.
• Connect this unit ONLY to other compatible units. See “How To
Install This Smoke Alarm” for details. Do not connect it to any other
type of alarm or auxiliary device. Connecting anything else to this
unit may damage it or prevent it from operating properly.
• This Smoke Alarm has a battery drawer which resists closing unless a battery is
installed. This warns you the unit will not operate under DC power without a battery.
• Do not stand too close to the unit when the alarm is sounding. It is loud to wake you
in an emergency. Exposure to the horn at close range may harm your hearing.
• Do not paint over the unit. Paint may clog the openings to the sensing
chambers and prevent the unit from operating properly.
WEEKLY TESTING
• 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. The built-in test switch accurately
tests the unit’s operation as required by Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (UL).
• If the Alarm ever fails to test properly, replace it immediately.
Products under warranty may be returned to the manufacturer for
replacement. See “Limited Warranty” at the end of this manual.
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.
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 Alarm.
Press and hold the Test/Silence button on the cover of the unit until the alarm sounds (the unit
may continue to alarm for a few seconds after you release the button). If it does not alarm, make
sure the unit is receiving power and test it again. If it still does not alarm, replace it immediately.
During testing, you will hear a
loud, repeating horn pattern: 3
beeps, pause, 3 beeps, pause. LED
flashes once every second.
When testing a series of interconnected units
you must test each unit individually. Make
sure all units alarm when each one is tested.
2
1
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 Alarm at least once a month; gently vacuum the outside of the
Smoke Alarm using your household vacuum’s soft brush attachment. Test the Smoke
Alarm. Never use water, cleaners or solvents since they may damage the unit.
• If the Smoke 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
“Locations To Avoid For Smoke Alarms” for details.
• When the battery back-up becomes weak, the Smoke Alarm will “chirp” about
once a minute (the low battery warning). This warning should last 7 days, but
you should replace the batteries immediately to continue your protection.
CHOOSING A REPLACEMENT BATTERY:
Your Smoke/CO Alarm requires two “AA” Duracell MN1500 batteries.
These batteries are available at many local retail stores.
• Always use the exact batteries specified 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 find an electronics recycling facility in your area. DO NOT
DISPOSE OF BATTERIES IN FIRE. BATTERIES MAY EXPLODE OR LEAK.
• 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.
Actual battery service life depends on the Alarm and the environment in which it is
installed. All 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 “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
UNDERSTANDING THE INDICATOR LIGHTS
AND ALARM HORN PATTERNS
AC Power DC Power
Normal Operation
Constant Green LED
No Audible Alarm
Flashing Green LED
once/minute
No Audible Alarm
Test Condition
Rapidly Flashing Red LED
Audible Alarm
Rapidly Flashing Red LED
Audible Alarm
Alarm Condition*
(Initiating Unit)
Rapidly Flashing Red LED
Audible Alarm
Rapidly Flashing Red LED
Audible Alarm
Alarm Condition*
(Remote Units)
Constant Green LED
Audible Alarm
Green LED Off
Audible Alarm
Silence Mode
Rapidly Flashing Red LED
Audible Alarm Off
Rapidly Flashing Red LED
Audible Alarm Off
Low Battery
Alarm “chirp’’ approx.
once/minute
Alarm “chirp’’ approx.
once/minute
Latching Alarm
Red LED flashing 2
seconds on, 2 seconds off
Not available
Low Battery Latch
Green LED flashing 2
seconds on, 2 seconds off
Not available
NOTE: When power is applied, unit(s) may alarm momentarily.
*When any Smoke Alarm in an interconnected series triggers an alarm, its red LED
will flash rapidly. The red LEDs will remain OFF on any remaining alarms in the
series. This feature helps responders identify which unit(s) triggered the alarm.
IF THIS SMOKE ALARM SOUNDS
RESPONDING TO AN ALARM
During an alarm, you will hear a loud, repeating horn pattern: 3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps, pause.
• 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 AC power to quiet an unwanted alarm. Disconnecting the power
disables the Alarm so it cannot sense smoke. This will remove 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.
• ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD: Attempting to disconnect the power connector from
the unit when the power is on may result in electrical shock, serious injury or death.
When an interconnected system of AC powered units is in alarm, the alarm indicator light on
the unit(s) that initiated the alarm will blink rapidly. It will remain OFF on any remaining units.
If the unit alarms, get everyone out of the dwelling immediately.
If the unit alarms and you are certain that the source of smoke is not a fire—cooking
smoke or an extremely dusty furnace, for example—open a nearby window or door and
fan the smoke away from the unit (Use the Silence Feature to silence the Alarm). This will
silence the alarm, and once the smoke clears the unit will reset itself automatically.
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.
Alarms have various limitations. See “Limitations of Smoke Alarms” for details.
USING THE SILENCE FEATURE
The Silence Feature can temporarily quiet an unwanted alarm for up to 15 minutes.
The Silence Feature does not disable the unit—it makes it temporarily less sensitive
to smoke. For your safety, if smoke around the unit is dense enough to suggest a
potentially dangerous situation, the unit will stay in alarm or may re-alarm quickly.
If you do not know the source of the smoke, do not assume it is an unwanted alarm.
Not responding to an alarm can result in property loss, injury, or death.
To silence Smoke Alarms in an interconnected series:
1. To silence multiple alarms in an interconnected series, you must press
the Test/Silence button on the unit(s) that triggered the alarm.
2. Once you activate the Silence feature, the Red LED will
flash approximately once every 10 seconds.
3. Pressing the Test/Silence button when in silence will restart the silence timer.
The Silence Feature on these units can temporarily quiet an unwanted alarm for
up to 15 minutes. To use this feature, press the Test/Silence button on the cover.
If the unit will not silence and no heavy smoke is present, or if it stays in
silence mode continuously, it should be replaced immediately.
SILENCING THE LOW BATTERY WARNING
This Silence Feature can temporarily quiet the low battery warning “chirp” for up to 8 hours.
Press the Test/Silence button on the Alarm cover until you hear the acknowledge “chirp”.
Once the low battery warning “chirp” silence feature is activated, the unit continues to flash the
green light once a minute for approximately 8 hours. After 8 hours, the low battery “chirp” will
resume. The Alarm will continue to operate as long as AC power is supplied. However, replace
the batteries as soon as possible, to maintain protection in event of a power outage.
To silence Alarms in an interconnected series:
To silence an interconnected series of Smoke/CO Alarms, you must press the Test/
Silence button on the initiating alarm (The unit with the flashing red light; the red
light will be off on all other Alarms.). If you press the Test/Silence on any other
Alarm, it will only silence that unit, not the whole interconnected series.
LATCHING FEATURE
Alarm Latch is activated after an Alarm is exposed to alarm levels of smoke. This feature
will only work with AC power. After smoke levels drop below alarm levels, the Red LED
will begin flashing 2 seconds on, 2 seconds off unless reset by test/silence button.
This feature helps emergency responders, investigators, or service technicians
identify which unit(s) in your home were exposed to alarm levels of smoke.
This can help investigators pinpoint the source of smoke.
Interconnected Alarms. Latching Alarm Indicator shows which Alarm(s) in the series
were exposed to alarm levels of smoke. The Latching Alarm Indicator stays ON until
you clear it, so it can alert you to an alarm that occurred while you were away from
home, even though smoke present in the air has dropped below alarm levels.
Low Battery Latch is activated when the Alarm is in the “low battery condition”. When this
occurs, the Green LED flashes 2 seconds on, 2 seconds off. 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.
“SMART INTERCONNECT” FEATURE
This Alarm includes “Smart Interconnect” which enables the Alarm to be interconnected
with other First Alert
®
and BRK Smoke, Heat, and “Smart Interconnect” Smoke, Smoke/
CO and 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 YOU SUSPECT A PROBLEM
Smoke Alarms may not operate properly because of dead, missing or weak batteries, a
build-up of dirt, dust or grease on the Smoke Alarm cover, or installation in an improper
location. Clean the Smoke Alarm as described in “Regular Maintenance,” and install
fresh batteries, then test the Smoke Alarm again. If it fails to test properly when you use
the test button, or if the problem persists, replace the Smoke Alarm immediately.
• If you hear a “chirp” approximately once a minute, replace the batteries.
• If you experience frequent non-emergency alarms (like those caused
by cooking smoke), try relocating the Smoke Alarm.
• If the alarm sounds when no smoke is visible, try cleaning or
relocating the Smoke Alarm. The cover may be dirty.
• If the alarm does not sound during testing, make sure it is
receiving AC power from the household current.
Always discharge the branch circuit before servicing an AC or AC/DC Smoke
Alarm. First, turn off the AC power at the circuit breaker or fuse box. Next,
remove the batteries from Smoke Alarms with battery back-up. Finally, press
and hold the test button for 5-10 seconds to discharge the branch circuit.
Do not try fixing the alarm yourself – this will void your warranty!
If the Smoke Alarm is still not operating properly, and it is still under warranty,
please see “How to Obtain Warranty Service” in the Limited Warranty.
RECOMMENDED LOCATIONS FOR SMOKE ALARMS
Installing Smoke Alarms in Single-Family Residences
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), recommends one Smoke Alarm on every floor, 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,
finished 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 finished 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 long (12 meters), install a unit at each end.
• At the top of the first-to-second floor stairway, and at the bottom of the basement stairway.
Specific 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.
AGENCY PLACEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS
NFPA 72 Chapter 29
“For your information, the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, NFPA 72, reads as follows:”
29.5.1* Required Detection.
29.5.1.1* Where required by other governing laws, codes, or standards for a specific type of
occupancy, approved single and multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed as follows:
(1) *In all sleeping rooms and guest rooms
(2) *Outside of each separate dwelling unit sleeping area, within 21 ft (6.4 m) of any
door to a sleeping room, with the distance measured along a path of travel
(3) On every level of a dwelling unit, including basements
(4) On every level of a residential board and care occupancy (small facility),
including basements and excluding crawl spaces and unfinished attics
(5) *In the living area(s) of a guest suite
(6) In the living area(s) of a residential board and care occupancy (small facility)
(Reprinted with permission from NFPA 72
®
, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code Copyright © 2010
National Fire Protection Association, Quincy, MA 02269. This reprinted material is not the complete
and official position of the National Fire Protection Association, on the referenced subject which is
represented only by the standard in its entirety), (National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code
®
and NFPA
72
®
are registered trademarks of the National Fire Protection Association, Inc., Quincy, MA 02269).
California State Fire Marshal (CSFM)
Early warning detection is best achieved by the installation of fire detection equipment
in all rooms and areas of the household as follows: A Smoke Alarm installed in each
separate sleeping area (in the vicinity, but outside bedrooms), and Heat or Smoke Alarms
in the living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, hallways, finished attics, furnace
rooms, closets, utility and storage rooms, basements, and attached garages.
LOCATIONS TO AVOID FOR SMOKE ALARMS
For best performance, AVOID installing Smoke Alarms in these 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 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.
• In air streams near kitchens. Air currents can draw cooking smoke into
the sensing chamber of a Smoke Alarm near the kitchen.
• In very damp, humid or steamy areas, or directly near bathrooms with showers. Keep
units at least 10 feet (3 meters) away from showers, saunas, dishwashers, etc.
• Where the temperatures are regularly below 40˚ F (4.4˚ C) or above 100˚ F (37.8˚ C) including
unheated buildings, outdoor rooms, porches, or unfinished attics or basements.
• In very dusty, dirty, or greasy areas. Do not install a Smoke Alarm directly over the
stove or range. Clean a laundry room unit frequently to keep it free of dust or lint.
• Near fresh air vents, ceiling fans, or in very drafty areas. Drafts can blow smoke
away from the unit, preventing it from reaching sensing chamber.
• In insect infested areas. Insects can clog openings to the
sensing chamber and cause unwanted alarms.
• Less than 12 inches (305 mm) away from fluorescent lights.
Electrical “noise” can interfere with the sensor.
• In “dead air” spaces. “Dead air” spaces may prevent smoke from reaching the Smoke Alarm.
AVOIDING DEAD AIR SPACES
“Dead air” spaces may prevent smoke from reaching the Smoke Alarm. To
avoid dead air spaces, follow the 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 the first 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.
ABOUT SMOKE ALARMS
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 qualified 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 battery- powered 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 these Smoke Alarms are designed to provide early warning of fires 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 unit to install, refer to NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) 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 specific units in new construction or in different areas of the home.
SPECIAL COMPLIANCE CONSIDERATIONS
This Smoke Alarm is suitable for use in apartments, condominiums, townhouses, hospitals, day
care facilities, health care facilities, boarding houses, group homes and dormitories provided
a primary fire detection system already exists to meet fire detection requirements in common
areas like lobbies, hallways, or porches. Using this Smoke Alarm in common areas may not
provide sufficient warning to all residents or meet local fire protection ordinances/regulations.
This Smoke Alarm alone is not a suitable substitute for complete fire detection systems
in places housing many people—like apartment buildings, condominiums, hotels, motels,
dormitories, hospitals, health care facilities, nursing homes, day care facilities, or group homes
of any kind. It is not a suitable substitute for complete fire detection systems in warehouses,
industrial facilities, commercial buildings, and special-purpose non-residential buildings which
require special fire detection and alarm systems. Depending on the building codes in your
area, this Smoke Alarm may be used to provide additional protection in these facilities.
In new construction, most building codes require the use of AC or AC/DC powered Smoke
Alarms only. In existing construction, AC, AC/DC, or DC powered Smoke Alarms can be used
as specified by local building codes. Refer to NFPA 72 (National Fire Alarm and Signaling
Code) and NFPA 101 (Life Safety Code), local building codes, or consult your Fire Department
for detailed fire protection requirements in buildings not defined as “households”.
FCC COMPLIANCE
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates,
uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance
with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
However, there is no guarantee that the interference will not occur in a particular installation.
If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception,
which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged
to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that of the receiver.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio or TV technician for help.
Changes or modifications to the product, not expressly approved by First Alert /
BRK Brands, Inc., could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
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, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
LIMITATIONS OF SMOKE ALARMS
Smoke Alarms have played a key role in reducing deaths resulting from home fires worldwide.
However, like any warning device, Smoke Alarms can only work if they are properly located,
installed, and maintained, and if smoke reaches the Alarms. They are not foolproof.
Smoke alarms may not waken all individuals. Practice the escape plan at least twice a year,
making sure that everyone is involved – from kids to grandparents. Allow children to master fire
escape planning and practice before holding a fire drill at night when they are sleeping. If children
or others do not readily waken to the sound of the smoke alarm, or if there are infants or family
members with mobility limitations, make sure that someone is assigned to assist them in fire
drill and in the event of an emergency. It is recommended that you hold a fire drill while family
members are sleeping in order to determine their response to the sound of the smoke alarm while
sleeping and to determine whether they may need assistance in the event of an emergency.
Smoke Alarms cannot work without power. Battery operated units cannot work if the batteries
are missing, disconnected or dead, if the wrong type of batteries are used, or if the batteries are not
installed correctly. AC units cannot work if the AC power is cut off for any reason (open fuse or circuit
breaker, failure along a power line or at a power station, electrical fire that burns the electrical wires,
etc.). If you are concerned about the limitations of battery or AC power, install both types of units.
Smoke Alarms cannot detect fires if the smoke does not reach the Alarms. Smoke from fires in
chimneys or walls, on roofs, or on the other side of closed doors may not reach the sensing chamber
and set off the Alarm. That is why one unit should be installed inside each bedroom or sleeping area—
especially if bedroom or sleeping area doors are closed at night—and in the hallway between them.
Smoke Alarms may not detect fire on another floor or area of the dwelling. For example,
a stand-alone unit on the second floor may not detect smoke from a basement fire until the fire
spreads. This may not give you enough time to escape safely. That is why recommended minimum
protection is at least one unit in every sleeping area, and every bedroom on every level of your
dwelling. Even with a unit on every floor, stand-alone units may not provide as much protection as
interconnected units, especially if the fire starts in a remote area. Some safety experts recommend
installing interconnected AC powered units with battery back-up (see “About Smoke Alarms”) or
professional fire detection systems, so if one unit senses smoke, all units alarm. Interconnected units
may provide earlier warning than stand-alone units since all units alarm when one detects smoke.
Smoke Alarms may not be heard. Though the alarm horn in this unit meets or exceeds
current standards, it may not be heard if: 1) the unit is located outside a closed or
partially closed door, 2) residents recently consumed alcohol or drugs, 3) the Alarm is
drowned out by noise from stereo, TV, traffic, air conditioner or other appliances, 4)
residents are hearing impaired or sound sleepers. Special purpose units, like those with
visual and audible alarms, should be installed for hearing impaired residents.
Smoke Alarms may not have time to alarm before the fire itself causes damage,
injury, or death, since smoke from some fires may not reach the unit immediately.
Examples of this include persons smoking in bed, children playing with matches,
or fires caused by violent explosions resulting from escaping gas.
Smoke Alarms are not foolproof. Like any electronic device, Smoke Alarms are
made of components that can wear out or fail at any time. You must test the unit
weekly to ensure your continued protection. Smoke Alarms cannot prevent or
extinguish fires. They are not a substitute for property or life insurance.
Smoke Alarms have a limited life. The unit should be replaced immediately if it is not
operating properly. You should always replace a Smoke Alarm after 10 years from date
of purchase. Write the purchase date on the space provided on back of unit.
LIMITED WARRANTY
BRK Brands, Inc., (“BRK”) the maker of First Alert
®
brand and BRK
®
brand products,
warrants that for a period of ten 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 Acts 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 Affairs Division at 1-800-323-9005. To assist us in
serving you, please have the model number and date of purchase available when calling.
For Warranty Service return to: 1301 Joe Battle, El Paso, TX 79936
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.
Visit www.firstalert.com for more information.
Printed in Mexico M08-0224-153449-3120B-US K1 9/16
HOW TO INSTALL THIS SMOKE ALARM
This Smoke Alarm is designed to be mounted on any standard wiring junction box up to a 4-inch (10 cm) size, on either the ceiling or wall (if allowed by local codes). Read “Recommended Locations
For Smoke Alarms” and “Locations to Avoid For Smoke Alarms” before you begin installation. Tools you will need: • Needle-nose pliers or utility knife • Standard Flathead screwdriver.
Make sure the Alarm is not receiving excessively noisy power. Examples of noisy power could be major appliances on the same circuit, power from a generator
or solar power, light dimmer on the same circuit or mounted near fluorescent lighting. Excessively noisy power may cause damage to your Alarm.
THE PARTS OF THIS SMOKE ALARM
The Mounting Bracket: To remove the mounting
bracket from the Smoke Alarm base, hold the
Smoke Alarm base firmly and twist the mounting
bracket counterclockwise. The mounting
bracket installs onto the junction box. It has
a variety of screw slots to fit most boxes.
The Power Connector: The power connector
plugs into a power input block on the Smoke
Alarm. It supplies the unit with AC power.
The black wire is “hot.”
The white wire is neutral.
The orange wire is used for interconnect.
If you need to remove the power connector,
turn POWER OFF first. Insert a flat screwdriver
blade between the power connector and the
security tab inside the power input block. Gently
pry back the tab and pull the connector free.
THE PARTS OF THIS UNIT
1. Mounting Bracket
2. Mounting Slots
3. Locking Pins (break out of bracket)
4. Hot (Black) AC Wire
5. Neutral (White) AC Wire
6. Interconnect (Orange) Wire
7. Quick-Connect Power Connector
8. Turn this way to remove
from bracket
9. Turn this way to attach to bracket
10. Slide-Out Battery Drawer
FOLLOW THESE INSTALLATION STEPS
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERCONNECTED SMOKE ALARMS
Failure to meet any of the above requirements could damage the units
and cause them to malfunction, removing your protection.
AC and AC/DC Smoke Alarms can be interconnected. Under AC
power, all units will alarm when one senses smoke. When power is
interrupted, only the AC/DC units in the series will continue to send
and receive signals. AC powered Smoke Alarms will not operate.
Interconnected units can provide earlier warning of fire than stand-alone units, especially
if a fire starts in a remote area of the dwelling. If any unit in the series senses smoke,
all units will alarm. To determine which Smoke Alarm initiated an alarm, see table:
During an Alarm:
On Initiating Alarm(s) Red LED(s) flashes (flash) rapidly
On All Other Alarms Red LED is Off
After an Alarm (Latching):
On Initiating Alarm(s) Red LED(s) flash 3 times, spaced one second apart.
The pattern repeats approximately every 45 seconds.
On All Other Alarms Green LED(s) On, Red LED(s) Off
Interconnect units within a single family residence only. Otherwise all households will
experience unwanted alarms when you test any unit in the series. Interconnected units
will only work if they are wired to compatible units and all requirements are met. This unit
is designed to be compatible with: First Alert
®
Smoke Alarm Models SA4120, SA4121B,
SA100B, SA520 and BRK
®
Smoke Alarm Models 3120B, 9120, 9120B, SC6120B, SC9120B,
7010, 7010B, 7010BSL, 7020B, SC7010B, SC7010BV, 100S, 4120, 4120B, 4120SB; BRK
®
CO Alarm Models CO5120BN, CO5120PDBN; BRK
®
Heat Alarm Models HD6135F and
HD6135FB; BRK
®
Auxiliary Devices Models RM3 and RM4 (Relay Modules), SL177
(Strobe Light). See www.brkelectronics.com for most current interconnect list.
Interconnected units must meet ALL of the following requirements:
• A maximum of 18 compatible units may be interconnected (Maximum of 12 Smoke Alarms).
• The same fuse or circuit breaker must power all interconnected units.
• The total length of wire interconnecting the units should be less than 1000 feet (300 meters).
This type of wire is commonly available at Hardware and Electrical Supply stores.
• All wiring must conform to all local electrical codes and NFPA 70 (NEC). Refer to NFPA
72, NFPA 101, and/or your local building code for further connection requirements.
5
}
A
}
B
8
7
6
3
1
1
2
2
3
4 4
5
A. Unswitched 120VAC 60 Hz source
B. To additional units; Maximum = 18
total (Maximum 12 Smoke Alarms)
1. Smoke Alarm 2. Ceiling or Wall 3. Power Connector
4. Wire Nut 5. Junction Box 6. Neutral Wire (Wht)
7. Interconnect
Wire (Orange)
8. Hot Wire (Blk)
The basic installation of this Smoke Alarm is similar whether you want to install
one Smoke Alarm, or interconnect more than one Smoke Alarm. If you are
interconnecting more than one Smoke Alarm, you MUST read “Special Requirements
For Interconnected Smoke Alarms” below before you begin installation.
ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD. Turn off power to the area where you will install this
unit at the circuit breaker or fuse box before beginning installation. Failure to turn off
the power before installation may result in serious electrical shock, injury or death.
1. Remove the mounting bracket from the base, and attach it to the junction box.
Activate the battery back-up by removing the “Pull to Activate Battery Back-
Up” tab. Or, install battery back-up. Battery back-up cannot work until you install
the battery in the correct position (Match “+” to “+” and “-” to “-”).
Push and hold Test button until the alarm sounds: 3 beeps, pause,
3 beeps, pause. LED flashes once every second.
2. Using wire nuts, connect the power connector to the household wiring.
STAND-ALONE ALARM ONLY:
• Connect the white wire on the power connector to the neutral wire in the junction box.
• Connect the black wire on the power connector to the hot wire in the junction box.
• Tuck the orange wire inside the junction box. It is used for interconnect only.
INTERCONNECTED UNITS ONLY:
Strip off about 1/2” (12 mm) of the plastic coating on
the orange wire on the power connector.
• Connect the white wire on the power connector to the neutral wire in the junction box.
• Connect the black wire on the power connector to the hot wire in the junction box.
• Connect the orange wire on the power connector to the interconnect
wire in the junction box. Repeat for each unit you are interconnecting.
Never connect the hot or neutral wires in the junction box to the orange
interconnect wire. Never cross hot and neutral wires between Alarms.
3. Plug the power connector into the back of the Smoke Alarm.
4. Position the base of the Smoke Alarm over the mounting bracket and
turn. The Alarm can be positioned over the bracket every 90°. Turn the
Smoke Alarm clockwise (right) until the unit is in place.
5. Check all connections.
Improper wiring of the power connector or the wiring leading to the power connector
will cause damage to the Alarm and may lead to a non-functioning Alarm.
STAND-ALONE ALARM ONLY:
• If you are only installing one Smoke Alarm, restore power to the junction box.
INTERCONNECTED UNITS ONLY:
• If you are interconnecting multiple Smoke Alarms, repeat
steps 1-5 for each Smoke Alarm in the series. When you
are finished, restore power to the junction box.
ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD. Do not restore power until all Smoke
Alarms are completely installed. Restoring power before installation is
complete may result in serious electrical shock, injury or death.
6. Make sure the Smoke Alarm is receiving AC power. Under normal operation,
the Green power indicator light will shine continuously.
7. If the Green power indicator light does not light, TURN OFF POWER TO THE JUNCTION
BOX and recheck all connections. If all connections are correct and the Green power indicator
still does not light when you restore the power, the unit should be replaced immediately.
8. Test each Smoke Alarm. Press and hold the Test/Silence button until the unit
alarms. When testing a series of interconnected units you must test each
unit individually. Make sure all units alarm when each one is tested.
If any unit in the series does not alarm, TURN OFF POWER and recheck connections.
If it does not alarm when you restore power, replace it immediately.
OPTIONAL LOCKING FEATURES
The locking features are designed to discourage unauthorized removal of the batteries or Alarm. It is not necessary to
activate the locks in single-family households where unauthorized battery or Alarm removal is not a concern.
These Smoke Alarms have two separate locking features: one to lock the battery compartment, and the other to lock the
Smoke Alarm to the mounting bracket. You can choose to use either feature independently, or use them both.
Tools you will need: • Needle-nose pliers or utility knife • Standard Flathead screwdriver.
Both locking features use locking pins, which are molded into the mounting bracket. Using needle-nose pliers or a utility knife,
remove one or both pins from the mounting bracket, depending on how many locking features you want to use.
To permanently remove either lock, insert a flathead screwdriver between the locking pin and the lock, and pry the pin out of the lock.
TO LOCK THE BATTERY COMPARTMENT TO UNLOCK THE BATTERY COMPARTMENT TO LOCK THE MOUNTING BRACKET
Do not lock the battery compartment until you have
installed the batteries and tested the battery back-up.
1. Push and hold Test button until the alarm sounds: 3 beeps,
pause, 3 beeps, pause. LED flashes once every second.
Da
If the unit does not alarm during testing, DO NOT lock the
battery compartment! Install new batteries and test again. If
the Smoke Alarm still does not alarm, replace it immediately.
2. Using needle-nose pliers or a utility knife, detach
one locking pin from the mounting bracket.
3. Push the locking pin through the hole near the battery
drawer on the back of the Smoke Alarm.
Once the Smoke Alarm is installed, you must disconnect it from
the AC power before unlocking the battery compartment.
ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD. Turn off the power to the
area where the Smoke Alarm is installed before removing
it from the mounting bracket. Failure to turn off the power
first may result in serious electrical shock, injury or death.
Always discharge the branch circuit before servicing an AC or
AC/DC Smoke Alarm. First, turn off the AC power at the circuit
breaker or fuse box. Next, remove the batteries from Smoke
Alarms with battery back-up. Finally, press and hold the Test/
Silence button for 5-10 seconds to discharge the branch circuit.
1. Remove the Smoke Alarm from the mounting
bracket. If the unit is locked to the bracket, see the
section “To Unlock the Mounting Bracket.”
2. Disconnect the power connector
by gently prying it away from
the back of the Smoke Alarm.
3. Insert a flathead 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.)
4. To relock the battery compartment, close the
battery door and reinsert locking pin in lock.
5. Reconnect the power connector to the back of the
Smoke Alarm, reattach the Smoke Alarm to the
mounting bracket, and restore the power.
Da
When replacing the batteries, always test the Smoke
Alarm before relocking the battery compartment.
1. Using needle-nose pliers, detach one
locking pin from mounting bracket.
2. Insert the locking pin into the lock located opposite
from the battery drawer as shown in the diagram.
3. When you attach the Smoke Alarm to the mounting bracket,
the locking pin’s head will fit into a notch on the bracket.
TO UNLOCK THE MOUNTING BRACKET
ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD. Turn off the power to the
area where the Smoke Alarm is installed before removing
it from the mounting bracket. Failure to turn off the power
first may result in serious electrical shock, injury or death.
Always discharge the branch circuit before servicing an AC or
AC/DC Smoke Alarm. First, turn off the AC power at the circuit
breaker or fuse box. Next, remove the batteries from Smoke
Alarms with battery back-up. Finally, press and hold the Test/
Silence button for 5-10 seconds to discharge the branch circuit.
1. Insert a flathead screwdriver
between the mounting bracket
pin and the mounting bracket.
2. Pry the Smoke Alarm
away from the bracket
by turning both the
screwdriver and the Smoke
Alarm counterclockwise
(left) at the same time.