BRK 9120LBLA Smoke Alarm User Manual
- June 11, 2024
- BRK
Table of Contents
USER’S MANUAL
Smoke Alarms
Model 9120LBLA with 10 year Battery
Backup
IONIZATION
9120LBLA Smoke Alarm
AC Powered Smoke Alarms
120V AC ~, 60 Hz, 0.04A
IMPORTANT! PLEASE READ CAREFULLY AND SAVE
This user’s manual contains important information about your Smoke Alarm’s
operation. If you are installing the Smoke Alarm for use by others, you must
leave this manual — or a copy of it — with the end user.
INTRODUCTION
Thank you for choosing BRK Brands, Inc. for your Smoke Alarm needs. You have
purchased a state of-the-art Smoke Alarm designed to provide you with early
warning of a
fire.
Key features include:
Smart Technology designed to help reduce unwanted or nuisance alarms.
Single Button Test/Silence eliminates confusion. Depending on what mode the
alarm is in, pushing the button provides different functions such as testing
the alarm, silencing the alarm, re-testing the alarm when in silence and
clearing the Latching feature.
Latching Alarm Indicator easily identifies initiating alarm even after the
alarm condition has subsided.
Perfect Mount System includes a gasket less base for easy installation and a
new mounting bracket that keeps the alarm secure over a wide rotation range to
allow for perfect
alignment.
Dust Cover is included to keep the alarm clean during construction.
Easy Installation/Maintenance features include a large opening in the mounting
bracket for easy access to wiring. A battery pull tab keeps the battery fresh
until the
home is occupied. A Side Load Battery Drawer allows for easy battery
replacement without removing the alarm from the ceiling or wall (Model 9120B
only).
Improved UV Resistance keeps the alarm from discoloring over time.
© 2022 Reside Technologies, Inc. All rights reserved. These products are
manufactured by Reside Technologies, Inc. and its affiliates.
Consumer Affairs: 800-323-9005
www.brkcanada.ca
www.firstalert.ca
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.
FIRE SAFETY TIPS
Follow safety rules and prevent hazardous situations:
- Use smoking materials properly. Never smoke in bed.
- Keep matches or lighters away from children;
- Store flammable materials in proper containers;
- Keep electrical appliances in good condition and don’t overload electrical circuits;
- Keep stoves, barbecue grills, fireplaces and chimneys grease- and debris-free;
- Never leave anything cooking on the stove unattended;
- Keep portable heaters and open flames, like candles, away from flammable materials;
- 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.
DANGER
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.
**WARNING
**
- 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; ICC; 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, 120V AC pure sine wave 60 Hz 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. Unit may be connected to an arc fault circuit interrupter.
- 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 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 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.
CAUTION
- 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.
- The battery compartment resists closing unless a battery is installed. This warns you the unit will not operate under DC power without a battery.
- Do not paint over the unit. Paint may clog the openings to the sensing chamber and prevent the unit from operating properly.
HOW TO INSTALL THIS SMOKE ALARM
This Smoke Alarm is designed to be mounted on any standard wiring junction box to a 4-inch (10 cm) size, on either the ceiling or wall. 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.
**WARNING**
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 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, 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 SMOKE ALARM
The Parts of This Unit
- Mounting Bracket
- Mounting Slots
- Locking Pins (break out of bracket)
- Hot (Black) AC Wire
- Neutral (White) AC Wire
- Interconnect (Orange) Wire
- Latch to Open Battery Compartment
- Swing-Out Battery Compartment
- Quick-Connect Power Connector
FOLLOW THESE INSTALLATION STEPS
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.
DANGER
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.
-
Using wire nuts, connect the power connector to the household wiring.
WARNING
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. -
Remove the mounting bracket from the base, and attach it to the junction box.
-
Plug the power connector into the back of the Smoke Alarm.
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. -
Position the base of the Smoke Alarm over the mounting bracket and turn. The Alarm will remain secure over a wide rotation range to allow for perfect alignment.
When wall mounting, this will allow fine-tuning on the positioning to compensate for misaligned wall studs and to keep the wording level. The Alarm can be positioned over the bracket every 120°. Rotate the Alarm until aligned properly. -
Check all connections.
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.
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.
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. Single Station Alarms: Test each Smoke Alarm. Press and hold the Test/Silence button until the unit alarms.
Interconnected Alarms: Press and hold the Test/Silence button until the unit alarms. All interconnected Alarms should sound. The other Alarms sounding only tests the
interconnect signal between Alarms. It does not test each Alarm’s operation. You must test each Alarm individually to check if the Alarm is functioning properly.
DANGER 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.
9. For new construction, place supplied dust cover over Alarm to prevent
damage from dust and construction debris. When construction is complete,
remove cover.
Smoke will not be able to reach smoke sensor while cover is in place. Cover
must be removed!
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)| Green LED(s) On for 2 seconds/Off for 2 seconds
On All Other Alarms| Green LED(s) On, Red LED(s) is Off
Compatible Interconnected Units
IMPROTANT
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 9120, 9120B, SC6120B, SC9120B, 7010, 7010B, 7010BSL, 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.
A. Unswitched 120VAC 60 Hz source
B. To additional units; Maximum = 18 total (Maximum 12 Smoke Alarms)
- Smoke Alarm
- Ceiling or Wall
- Power Connector
- Wire Nut
- Junction Box
- Neutral Wire (Wht)
- Interconnect Wire (Orange)
- Hot Wire (Blk)
UNDERSTANDING THE INDICATOR ALARM HORNPATTERNS LIGHTS AND| |
---|---|---
Condition| LED (Red or Green Lights)| Horn
Normal Operation (AC Power)| Green LED ON; flashing Red LED once/ minute| No
Audible Alarm
Normal Operation
(DC Power – 9120B only)| Green LED OFF; Red LED flashes once/minute| No
Audible Alarm
DURING TESTING| Red LED flashes once every second| Horn pattern:
3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps, pause
LOW OR MISSING BATTERY (9120B only)| Red LED flashes once/minute| Horn
“chirps” once/minute
ALARM CONDITION Smoke Initiating Device| Red LED flashes rapidly on the unit
that triggered the Alarm.| Horn pattern:
3 beeps, pause, 3
beeps, pause repeating on all Alarms
ALARM CONDITION Interconnect Alarm| Red LED on the other Alarms in an
interconnected series will be OFF.| Horn pattern:
3 beeps, pause, 3
beeps, pause repeating on all Alarms
IN SILENCE MODE| Red LED flashes once every 10 seconds| Horn remains silent
for up to 10 minutes. Horn will sound if smoke
levels increase.
“LATCHING” ALARM INDICATOR| Green LED ON for 2 seconds/OFF for 2 seconds,
repeatedly until reset, on initiating unit(s).| Horn remains silent
WEEKLY TESTING
**WARNING**
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).
CAUTION
DO NOT stand close to the Alarm when the horn is sounding. Exposure at close
range mabe 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. 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
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 battery immediately to continue your protection.
Choosing a replacement battery:
Your Smoke Alarm requires one standard 9V battery. The following batteries are
acceptable as replacements: Duracell #MN1604, (Ultra) #MX1604; Eveready
(Energizer) #522, Eveready (Energizer) #1222. You may also use a Lithium
battery like the Ultralife U9VL-J, U9VL-J-P for longer service life between
battery changes. These batteries are available at many local retail stores.
**WARNING**
-
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.
**WARNING** -
Keep battery out of reach of children. In the event a battery is swallowed, immediately contact your poison control center, your physician, or the National Battery Ingestion hotline at 202-625-3333 as serious injury may occur
IMPROTANT
Actual battery service life depends on the Smoke 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”).
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.
**WARNING**
-
If the unit alarms and you are not testing the unit, it is warning you of a potentially dangerous situation that requires your immediate attention.
NEVER ignore any alarm. Ignoring the alarm may result in injury or death. -
Never 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.
DANGER -
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 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.
LOCKING FEATURES
The locking features are designed to discourage unauthorized removal of the
battery or alarm. It is not necessary to activate the locks in single-family
households where
unauthorized battery or alarm removal is not a concern.
This alarm has two separate locking features: one to lock the battery
compartment, and the other to lock the Smoke Alarm to the mounting bracket.
This alarm is shipped
from the factory with the battery drawer locked because it features a 10 year
battery backup. Under normal conditions you should not have to replace the
battery for the
life of the alarm. If you need to replace the battery follow the UNLOCK THE
BATTERY COMPARTMENT instructions below. Re-lock Battery Compartment if
desired.
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.
IMPROTANT
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 UNLOCK THE BATTERY COMPARTMENT
IMPROTANT
Once the Smoke Alarm is installed, you must disconnect it from the AC power
before unlocking the battery compartment.
DANGER
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.
**WARNING**
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.
- Remove the Smoke Alarm from the mounting bracket. If the unit is locked to the bracket, see the section “To Unlock the Mounting Bracket.”
- Disconnect the power connector by gently prying it away from the back of the Smoke Alarm.
- Score the area around the locking pin to break the seal. Insert a flathead screwdriver under the head of the locking pin or use a needle nose pliers to gently pry it out of the battery compartment lock. (If you plan to re-lock the battery compartment, save the locking pin.)
- To relock the battery compartment, close the battery door and reinsert locking pin in lock.
- Reconnect the power connector to the back of the Smoke Alarm, reattach the Smoke Alarm to the mounting bracket, and restore the power.
IMPROTANT
When replacing the battery, always test the Smoke Alarm before relocking the
battery compartment.
TO LOCK THE BATTERY COMPARTMENT
Do not lock the battery compartment until you have activated the battery and
tested the battery back-up.
-
Activate the battery back-up by removing the “Pull to Activate Battery Back-Up” tab.
-
Push and hold test button until the alarm sounds: 3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps, pause. IMPROTANT
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. -
Using needle-nose pliers or a utility knife, detach one locking pin from the mounting bracket.
Locking Features (Continued)
TO LOCK THE MOUNTING BRACKET
- Using needle-nose pliers or utility knife, detach one locking pin from mounting bracket.
- Insert the locking pin into the lock located on the base as shown in the diagram.
- 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
DANGER
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.
**WARNING**
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.
- Insert a flathead screwdriver between the mounting bracket pin and the mounting bracket.
- Pry the Smoke Alarm away from the bracket by turning both the screwdriver and the Smoke Alarm counterclockwise (left) at the same time.
IF THIS SMOKE ALARM SOUNDS, Continued
WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF FIRE
- Don’t panic; stay calm. Follow your family escape plan.
- Get out of the house as quickly as possible. Don’t stop to get dressed or collect anything.
- Feel doors with the back of your hand before opening them. If a door is cool, open it slowly. Don’t open a hot door. Keep doors and windows closed, unless you must escape through them.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a cloth (preferably damp). Take short, shallow breaths.
- Meet at your planned meeting place outside your home, and do a head count to make sure everybody got out safely.
- Call the Fire Department as soon as possible from outside. Give your address, then your name.
- Never go back inside a burning building for any reason.
- Contact your Fire Department for ideas on making your home safer.
**WARNING
Alarms have various limitations. See “Limitations of Smoke Alarms” for
details.
USING THE SILENCE FEATURE
The Silence Feature on this unit can temporarily quiet an unwanted alarm for
up to 10 minutes.
****WARNING
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. 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.
IMPROTANT**
To silence Smoke Alarms in an interconnected series:
-
To silence multiple alarms in an interconnected series, you must press the Test/Silence button on the unit(s) that initiated the alarm.
NOTE: The red LED on the initiating alarm will flash rapidly. The red LED will be Off on all other non-initiating alarms. No audible sound will be heard.
The unit will exit “silence mode” in approximately 10 minutes. -
While the unit is in “silence mode”, pressing and holding the Test/Silence button for approximately 10 seconds will test the unit. After testing, the unit will re-enter “silence mode” and the 10-minute timer is reset.
“LATCHING ALARM” INDICATOR
The Latching Alarm Indicator is automatically activated after an Alarm is
exposed to alarm levels of smoke. After smoke levels drop below alarm levels,
the green LED
will be On for 2 seconds/Off for 2 seconds, repeatedly. This feature helps
emergency responders, investigators, or service technicians identify which
unit(s) in your home were exposed to alarm levels of smoke after the condition
has subsided. The Latching Alarm Indicator stays ON until you reset it by
pressing the Test/Silence button. The Latching Alarm Indicator is also reset
when AC and DC power is removed from the 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 a fresh battery, then test the Smoke Alarm
again. If it fails to test properly when you use the
Test/Silence button, or if the problem persists, replace the Smoke Alarm
immediately.
- 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 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.
**WARNING
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.
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 (12 meters) long, install a unit at each end.
- At the top of the first-to-second floor stairway, and at the bottom of the basement stairway.
IMPROTANT
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 “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:
- In all sleeping rooms and guest rooms
- 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
- On every level of a dwelling unit, including basements
- On every level of a residential board and care occupancy (small facility), including basements and excluding crawl spaces and unfinished attics
- In the living area(s) of a guest suite
- 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 (6 meter) distance is not possible – in modular, mobile, or smaller homes, for example – it is recommended the Smoke Alarm be placed as far from these fuel-burning sources as possible. The placement recommendations are intended to keep these Alarms at a reasonable distance from a fuel-burning source, and thus reduce “unwanted” alarms. Unwanted alarms can occur if a Smoke Alarm is placed directly next to a fuel-burning source. Ventilate these areas as much as possible.
LOCATIONS TO AVOID FOR SMOKE ALARMS, Continued
-
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. However, they
do not 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) backup: 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.
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 BRK ® brand and First Alert ® 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, 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.
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.
Printed in Mexico
M08-179495 K1 11/22
Model
CERTIFIED TO
UL STD S531 9120LBLA
References
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