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 elec-
trical appliances in good condition and don’t overload electrical circuits; 5) Keep stoves, barbecue grills, fire-
places 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.
USER’S MANUAL
SMOKE AND FIRE* ALARMS
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.
AC Powered Ionization Smoke Alarm with
Battery Back-Up and Silence Feature
Models 4120SB, SA4121B
Input: 120V AC
~
, 60Hz, 0.05A
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 devel-
oping 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 extin-
guish fires.
AC Powered Ionization Smoke Alarm
with Battery Back-Up
Model 4120B
Input: 120V AC
~
, 60Hz, 0.05A
AC Powered Ionization Smoke Alarm
Understand The Different Type of Smoke Alarms
Battery powered or electrical? Different Smoke Alarms provide different types of protection. See “About
MInpoudte:l1s2401V2A0,CS~A4,16200Hz, 0.05A
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 bed-
room, and in every bedroom hallway or separate sleeping area. See “Recommended Locations For Smoke
Alarms” and “Locations To Avoid For Smoke Alarms” for details.
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.
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
Models SA4121B,
SA4120, 4120B,
4120, 4120SB
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.
M08-0030-000
Q
11/02
THIS USER’S MANUAL HAS BEEN RESIZED TO PRINT OUT ON 8-1/2 x 11” PAGES.
BLACK page numbers reference the original printed document.
RED page numbers reference this web version.
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.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Fire Safety Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Before You Install This Smoke Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
How To Install This Smoke Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3
Locking Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-4/3-4
Understanding the Indicator Lights and Alarm Horn Patterns . . . . . . . . .4
Weekly Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Regular Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
If This Smoke Alarm Sounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
What To Do In Case Of Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Using the Silence Feature (Models SA4121B, 4120SB) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
If You Suspect a Problem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Recommended Locations For Smoke Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6/5-6
Locations To Avoid For Smoke Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
About Smoke Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7/6
Special Compliance Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7/6
Limitations of Smoke Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Limited Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-7/7
•
•
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; Article 760 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 elec-
trician. 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 can-
not 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.
On Models SA4121B and 4120B/SB Only:
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 up to 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 dis-
able 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 cook-
ing smoke, etc.). Instead open a window or fan the smoke away from the unit. The alarm will reset
automatically.
All Rights Reserved. © 2002 BRK Brands, Inc.
BRK Brands, Inc., 3901 Liberty Street Road, Aurora, IL 60504-8122
®
®
*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.
•
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.
On Models SA4121B, 4120B/SB Only: The battery compartment will not close 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 emer-
gency. Exposure to the horn at close range may harm your hearing.
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 parti-
cles, 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.
•
•
•
Do not paint over the unit. Paint may clog the openings to the sensing chambers and prevent the
unit from operating properly.
For maximum protection, use both types of Smoke Alarms on each level of your home.
1
Special Requirements For Interconnected Smoke Alarms
LOCKING FEATURES
The locking features are designed to prevent unauthorized removal of the battery or Alarm. It is not
necessary to activate the locks in single-family households where unautho-
• Failure to meet any of the above requirements could damage the units and cause them to
rized battery or Alarm removal is not a concern.
Locking Pin
malfunction, removing your protection.
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.
• 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.
Tools you will need: • Needle-nose pliers or utility knife • Standard/Flathead
screwdriver.
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:
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 fea-
tures you want to use.
On Initiating Alarms
On All Other Alarms
Red LED(s) flashes(flash) rapidly
Red LED is Off
To permanently remove either lock, insert a flathead screwdriver between the locking pin and the lock,
and pry the pin out of the lock.
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
TO LOCK THE BATTERY COMPARTMENT
(Models SA4121B, 4120B, and 4120SB Only)
all requirements are met. This unit is designed to be compatible with:
First Alert® Smoke Alarm Models SA4120, SA4121B, SA4919B, SA100B and BRK Electronics® Smoke Alarm
Models 100S, 2002RAC, 4120, 4120B, 4120SB, 4919, 5919, 5919TH; BRK Electronics® Heat Alarm Models
HD6135F, HD6135FB; Smoke/CO Alarm Model SC6120B; Relay Module RM3.
Do not lock the battery compartment until you have installed the battery and tested the battery back-
up.
Interconnected units must meet ALL of the following requirements:
1. Push and hold test button until the alarm sounds: 3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps, pause.
• 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.
If the unit does not alarm during testing, DO NOT lock the battery compartment!
Install a new battery and test again. If the Smoke Alarm still does not alarm,
replace it immediately.
• The total length of wire interconnecting the units should be less than 1000 feet (300 meters). The intercon-
nect wire should be #18 gauge or larger, rated at least 300V. If an interconnect wire is not already part of
your household wiring, you will need to install one. This type of wire is commonly available at Hardware
and Electrical Supply stores.
2. Using needle-nose pliers or a utility knife, detach one locking pin from the mount-
ing bracket.
•
All wiring must conform to all local electrical codes and Article 760 of NFPA 70 (NEC). Refer to NFPA 72, NFPA
101, and/or your local building code for further connection requirements.
3. Push the locking pin through the black dot on the label on the back
of the Smoke Alarm.
6
B
A
}
7
}
8
5
4
3
5
4
3
2
TO UNLOCK THE BATTERY COMPARTMENT
(Models SA4121B, 4120B, and 4120SB Only)
1
1
Once the Smoke Alarm is installed, you must disconnect it from the AC power before unlocking the battery
compartment.
A. Unswitched 120VAC B. To additional units; Maximum = 18 total
60 Hz source
(Maximum 12 Smoke Alarms)
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.
1. Smoke Alarm
4. Wire Nut
7. Interconnect Wire
(Orange)
2. Ceiling or Wall
3. Power Connector
5. Junction Box
8. Hot Wire (Blk)
6. Neutral Wire (Wht)
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 battery from Smoke Alarms with battery back-
up. Finally, press and hold the test 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 compart-
ment, 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.
Models SA4121B and 4120SB Only: During installation, if you accidentally press the Silence button, the alarm
will “chirp” once a minute for up to 15 minutes and the Test feature will be temporarily disabled. This is normal.
The “chirping” will stop once the alarm returns to normal operation.
When replacing the battery, always test the Smoke Alarm before relocking the battery compartment.
3
WEEKLY TESTING
Locking Features (Continued)
TO LOCK THE MOUNTING BRACKET:
1. Using needle-nose pliers,
detach one locking pin from
mounting bracket.
•
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 you choose to use an aerosol smoke product to test the
Smoke Alarm, be certain to use one that has been Listed to Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. Safety
Standards, and use it only as directed. Use of non-UL Listed products or improper use of UL Listed
products may affect the Smoke Alarm’s sensitivity, and may void your warranty.
2. Insert the locking pin into the
lock located on the pivoting
hinge of the battery door.
•
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.
3. When you attach the Smoke
Alarm to the mounting brack-
et, the locking pin’s head will
fit into a notch on the bracket.
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 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.
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.
When testing a series of interconnected units you must test each unit individually. Make sure all units alarm
when each one is tested.
REGULAR MAINTENANCE
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 battery from Smoke Alarms with battery back-
up. Finally, press and hold the test button for 5-10 seconds to discharge the branch circuit.
Use only the replacement batteries listed below. The unit may not operate properly with other batteries.
Never use rechargeable batteries since they may not provide a constant charge.
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.
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.
•
•
Relocate the unit if it sounds frequent unwanted alarms. See “Locations To Avoid For Smoke Alarms” for
details.
Models SA4121B/SB Only: 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 battery
immediately to continue your protection.
Models SA4121B, 4120B/SB Only
–
Choosing a replacement battery:
UNDERSTANDING THE INDICATOR LIGHTS
AND ALARM HORN PATTERNS
Your Smoke Alarm requires one standard 9V battery. The following batteries are acceptable as replacements:
Duracell #MN1604, (Ultra) #MX1604; Eveready (Energizer) #522. You may also use a Lithium battery like the
Ultralife U9VL-J for longer service life between battery changes. These batteries are available at many local
retail stores.
AC Power
DC Power
Models SA4121B,
4120B, 4120SB
All Models
Normal Operation
Test Condition
Constant Green LED
Green LED Off
Actual battery service life depends on the smoke alarm and the environment in which it is installed. All the bat-
teries specified above are acceptable replacement batteries for this unit. Regardless of the manufacturer’s sug-
gested battery life, you MUST replace the battery immediately once the unit starts “chirping” (the “low battery
warning”).
Flashing Red LED
No Audible Alarm
Flashing Red LED
approx. once/minute
No Audible Alarm
Constant Green LED
Rapidly Flashing LED
Audible Alarm
Green LED Off
Rapidly Flashing LED
Audible Alarm
Alarm Condition*
(Initiating Unit)
Constant Green LED
Green LED Off
Rapidly Flashing
Red LED
Rapidly Flashing LED
Audible Alarm
Audible Alarm
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.
4
IF THIS SMOKE ALARM SOUNDS
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 a fresh battery, 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.
RESPONDING TO AN ALARM
During an alarm, you will hear a loud, repeating horn pattern: 3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps, pause.
•
•
If you hear a “chirp” once a minute, replace the battery.
If you experience frequent non-emergency alarms (like those caused by cooking smoke), try relocat-
ing 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.
•
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.
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 battery 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.
•
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 initi-
ated the alarm will blink rapidly. It will remain OFF on any remaining units.
If the unit alarms, get everyone out of the dwelling immediately.
RECOMMENDED LOCATIONS FOR SMOKE ALARMS
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 (Models SA4121B
and 4120SB Only: use the Silence Feature to silence the Alarm). This will silence the alarm, and once the
smoke clears the unit will reset itself automatically.
Installing Smoke Alarms in Single-Family Residences
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), recommends one Smoke Alarm on every floor, in every sleep-
ing area, and in every bedroom. In new construction, the Smoke Alarms must be AC powered and interconnect-
ed. 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˚C) and 100˚F (38˚C). Make sure no door or other obstruction could keep smoke
from reaching the Smoke Alarms.
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.
More specifically, install Smoke Alarms:
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.
•
•
•
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.
•
•
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.
•
At the top of the first-to-second floor stairway, and at the bottom of the basement stairway.
•
•
•
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.
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.
Contact your Fire Department for ideas on making your home safer.
USING THE SILENCE FEATURE (MODELS SA4121B AND 4120SB ONLY)
The Silence Feature on these units 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.
While the unit is in the “silence mode,” the test button will not operate. The Alarm cannot be tested while in the
silence mode.
To silence Smoke Alarms in an interconnected series:
1. To silence multiple alarms in an interconnected series, you must press the silence button on the unit(s) that
triggered the alarm.
NOTE: The red light under the silence button on the initiating alarm will flash rapidly. The red light will be off on
all other Smoke Alarms.
INSTALLING SMOKE ALARMS IN MOBILE HOMES & RVS
2. Once you activate the Silence feature, you will hear a reminder “chirp” on the initiating alarm about once a
For minimum security install one Smoke Alarm as close to each sleeping area as possible. For more security, put
one unit in each room. Many older mobile homes (especially those built before 1978) have little or no insulation. If
your mobile home is not well insulated, or if you are unsure of the amount of insulation, it is important to install units
on inside walls only. Smoke Alarms should be installed where temperatures normally remain between 40˚F (4˚C) and
100˚F (38˚C). WARNING: Test units used in RVs after the vehicle has been in storage, before every trip, and
once a week while in use. Failure to test units used in RVs as described may remove your protection.
minute (for up to 15 minutes).
3. While the units are in the “silence mode,” the test buttons will not operate. The alarms cannot be tested
while in the silence mode.
4. The “chirping” on the initiating alarm will stop once the unit returns to normal operation.
The Silence Feature on these units can temporarily quiet an unwanted alarm for up to 15 minutes. To use this
feature, press the “Push to Silence” button on the cover. Once you activate it, you will hear a reminder “chirp”
about once a minute (for up to 15 minutes) and the Test feature is temporarily disabled. The “chirping” will stop
once the unit returns to normal operation. 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.
This equipment should be installed in accordance with NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) 72 and 101.
National Fire Protection Association, One Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269-9101. Additional local building
and regulatory codes may apply in your area. Always check compliance requirements before beginning any
installation.
5
AGENCY PLACEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS
ABOUT SMOKE ALARMS
NFPA 72 (National Fire Code)
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.
Smoke Alarms shall be installed in each separate sleeping room, outside each sleeping area in the immediate vicin-
ity of the bedrooms and on each additional story of the family living unit, including basements and excluding crawl
spaces and unfinished attics.
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 bat-
teries are fresh and correctly installed. AC and AC/DC units must be installed by a qualified electrician.
In new construction, Alarms shall be so arranged that operation of any one Alarm shall cause the operation of all
Alarms within the dwelling.
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 Detection-Are More Smoke Alarms Desirable? The required number of Smoke Alarms might not provide
reliable early warning protection for those areas separated by a door from the areas protected by the required
Smoke Alarms. For this reason, it is recommended that the householder consider the use of additional Smoke
Alarms for those areas for increased protection. The additional areas include the basement, bedrooms, dining
room, furnace room, utility room, and hallways not protected by the required Smoke Alarms. The installation of
Smoke Alarms in kitchens, attics (finished or unfinished), or garages is not normally recommended, as these loca-
tions occasionally experience conditions that can result in improper operation.
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.
California State Fire Marshal (CSFM)
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 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.
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 bed-
rooms), 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.
SPECIAL COMPLIANCE CONSIDERATIONS
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 recom-
mended the Smoke Alarm be placed as far from these fuel-burning sources as possible. The placement rec-
ommendations are intended to keep these Alarms at a reasonable distance from a fuel-burning source, and
thus reduce “unwanted” or “nuisance” 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˚ C) or above 100˚ F (38˚ 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, prevent-
ing it from reaching sensing chamber.
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, long-term health care
facilities, nursing homes, day care facilities, or group homes of any kind—even if they were once single-family
homes. 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 addi-
tional protection in these facilities.
The following information applies to all four types of buildings listed below:
•
•
•
•
•
In new construction, most building codes require the use of AC or AC/DC powered Smoke Alarms only. AC, AC/DC,
or DC powered Smoke Alarms can be used in existing construction as specified by local building codes. Refer to
NFPA 72 (National Fire Alarm 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.”
1. Single-Family Residence:
Single family home, townhouse. It is recommended Smoke Alarms be installed on every level of the home, in
every bedroom, and in each bedroom hallway.
2. Multi-Family or Mixed Occupant Residence:
Apartment building, condominium. This Smoke Alarm is suitable for use in individual apartments or condos,
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.
•
•
•
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.
3. Institutions: Hospitals, day care facilities, long-term health care facilities. This Smoke Alarm is suitable for
use in individual patient sleeping/resident rooms, 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/regu-
lations.
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.
4. Hotels and Motels: Also boarding houses and dormitories. This Smoke Alarm is suitable for use inside indi-
vidual sleeping/resident rooms, 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.
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.
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LIMITATIONS OF SMOKE ALARMS
LIMITED WARRANTY
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.
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 work-
manship. 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.
Smoke Alarms cannot work without power. Battery operated units cannot work if the batteries are missing, dis-
connected 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 bat-
tery or AC power, install both types of units.
This warranty is valid for the original retail purchaser from the date of initial retail purchase and is not trans-
ferable. 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.
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.
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 war-
ranty does not cover Acts of God, such as fire, flood, hurricanes and tornadoes or any batteries that are
included with this unit.
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 pro-
vide 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 pro-
fessional fire detection systems, so if one unit senses smoke, all units alarm. Interconnected units may provide ear-
lier warning than stand-alone units since all units alarm when one detects smoke.
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.
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 alco-
hol 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.
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, 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM Central Standard Time,
Monday through Friday. To assist us in serving you, please have the model number and date of purchase
available when calling.
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.
3920 Enterprise Court, Aurora, IL 60504-8132.
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 can-
not prevent or extinguish fires. They are not a substitute for property or life insurance.
Battery: BRK Brands, Inc. make no warranty, express or implied, written or oral, including that of mer-
chantability or fitness for any particular purpose with respect to battery.
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.
First Alert® is a registered trademark of the First Alert Trust.
BRK® is a registered trademark of BRK Brands, Inc.
M08-0030-000
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