QUELL Q1300 240V Hard Wired Photoelectric Smoke Alarm Owner’s Manual

QUELL Q1300 240V Hard Wired Photoelectric Smoke Alarm

Product Information

The product is a 240V Interconnectable Main Operated Smoke Alarm. It is manufactured by Chubb Fire & Security Pty Limited and is suitable for models Q1300. The product can be purchased from Quell, an Australian company located at 149-155 Milton Street, Ashfield NSW 2131.

The smoke alarm is designed to function properly when it is selected, located, installed, and maintained according to the instruction manuals. It is important to follow the provided instructions for optimal performance.

The alarm has two types: Clear Air and Smoke. It is recommended to use optical alarms in locations where steam or cooking fumes from a nearby room could cause nuisance alarms. Each type of alarm has different features and benefits, and it is essential to choose the appropriate alarm for the specific location.

The product is not compatible with power derived from a square wave or modified sine wave inverter. These types of inverters, commonly used in off- grid installations like solar or wind power sources, produce high peak voltages that can damage the alarm. It is important to ensure that the alarm is connected to a suitable power supply.

The product is designed to protect the environment. Waste electrical products should not be disposed of with household waste. Users are encouraged to recycle the product where facilities exist. For recycling advice, users can contact their Local Authority or retailer.

Product Usage Instructions

1. Properly select a suitable location for the smoke alarm according to the instruction manual.
2. Install the smoke alarm as per the provided instructions.
3. Maintain the smoke alarm regularly by following the maintenance guidelines in Section 5 of the instruction manual.
4. To test the alarm, follow the steps mentioned in Section 3 of the instruction manual.
5. If the alarm continuously produces nuisance alarms, clean the alarm as described in Section 5 and review with the installer or landlord.
6. For models with loose batteries, if the low battery indicator chirps continuously every 30-40 seconds, it indicates that the battery voltage is low. Replace the battery at the next opportunity.
7. To change the battery, follow the steps mentioned in Section 4 of the instruction manual.
8. If in doubt, consult a qualified electrician when dealing with mains electricity.

For further information or assistance, please refer to the complete user manual.

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

Waste electrical products should not be disposed of with household waste. Please recycle where facilities exist. Check with your Local Authority or retailer for recycling advice.

Important Information
This alarm is designed for installation by a qualified (licensed) electrician, in accordance with current Building Code of Australia (BCA) Regulations and to any other local or building codes that may apply.

• Hard wired smoke alarms require a constant 240V AC supply. Battery Back-up models additionally require a healthy battery too.
• A healthy mains supply is indicated by a constant green L.E.D. (mains) indicator.
• Test the alarm weekly by pressing (and holding) the test button. The alarm and all those interconnected to it will sound.
• Vacuum your alarms regularly to reduce the likelihood of nuisance alarms, caused by dust contamination.
• Never paint or expose alarm to water – this is a 240V alarm. (If painting or building work is being carried out close to alarm, temporarily cover with a plastic bag).
• If the alarm chirps every 30-40 seconds at the same time as the red LED, it indicates the battery needs replacing (if you are in rented property, advise your Landlord).
• If the alarm chirps every 30-40 seconds in between red LED flashes this indicates the alarm is in fault. Press and hold the Test button to reset the unit but replace it if the alarm does re-enter fault mode.
• If there is any question to the cause of an alarm, it should be assumed that the alarm was due to an actual fire and the dwelling should be evacuated immediately.

Smoke alarms will only function if properly selected,located, installed and maintained as per instruction manuals.

Types of Alarm

Power Supply

• DC alarms:
  9V battery powered units, but will only function if battery is in good condition – check regularly (AS 3786).

• AC/DC alarms:
  240V mains – for professional installation. Minimum required to comply with relevant local Building Regulations. Interconnectable to other Quell Alarms, so all will sound when one is triggered. If mains power is lost, will operate via battery power if batteries are fresh/properly installed. Some models use replaceable 9V batteries. This type is the minimum grade acceptable on new or materially altered dwellings.

WARNING:
This alarm cannot be operated from power derived from a square wave or modified sine wave inverter. These types of inverters are sometimes used to supply power to the structure in off grid installations, such as solar or wind derived power sources. These power sources produce high peak voltages that will damage the alarm.

Alarm Types

• Ionisation (Ion):
  alarms are the most common type and provide early detection against fast flaming fires and other fires. Most suitable for dining and living room areas. Ion alarms contain 0.9 microcurie of Americium 241, a radioactive material.

• Optical (Photo-Electric):
  alarms are less prone to nuisance alarms from cooking fumes. They are therefore the recommended type in AS3786, for fitting near kitchen areas and on escape routes/circulation spaces.

How to Operate/Test the Alarm

Operation and L.E.D. Status

• When your alarm is correctly installed to the mains supply, the green
  L. E.D. light will be on. The red L.E.D. will blink every 30-40 seconds to indicate the sensor is operating correctly. If the alarm senses products of combustion, its 85dB horn will be activated. The red L.E.D. will flash rapidly on the alarm sensing smoke. (Other interconnected alarms will also sound to warn those in other parts of the property). This will continue until the sensor chamber is clear.

• If the red L.E.D. blinks every 30-40 seconds and the alarm chirps in between, it indicates a fault with the sensing chamber. Press and hold the test button to perform a reset but if the unit re-enters fault mode replace the alarm.

  • Regularly check and ensure that the green L.E.D. is lit – if not, check the consumer unit/circuit breaker connection. As with previous point above, if in doubt, consult an electrician or your Landlord.

Testing

Utilise the test button to test the alarm. Do not use naked flames as this does not replicate smoke and may cause physical damage to the alarm or ignite combustible materials and start a structure fire.
Test all your alarms weekly – remember they are life saving devices, protecting the family and home.

Press and hold the test button until the alarm sounds. All interconnected alarms should also sound. (Do not stand too close to the alarm during testing – hearing may be damaged). Immediately after completing the test cycle, the Q1300 models will enter into Hush mode and the red LED will flash approximately every 10 seconds (refer to section c. Hush Button).

Hush Button

This feature temporarily desensitises the alarm circuit for approximately 7 minutes. This feature is to be used only when a known alarm condition, such as fumes from cooking, activates the alarm. The alarm is desensitised by pushing and releasing the “HUSH” button on the alarm cover. If the smoke is not too dense, the alarm will silence immediately and the red LED will flash every 10-11 seconds seconds for approximately 7 minutes. This indicates that the alarm is in a temporarily desensitised condition. The alarm will automatically reset after approximately 7 minutes and sound the alarm if particles of combustion are still present and releasing. The “HUSH” feature can be used repeatedly until the air has been cleared of the condition causing the alarm. The triggering alarm is signified by a rapidly flashing red LED. For safety reasons, the triggering alarm signal can only be silenced by activating the Hush button on that unit.

Note : Dense smoke will override the hush control feature and sound a continuous alarm.

Caution : Before using the alarm hush feature, identify the source of the smoke and be certain a safe condition exists.

Nuisance Alarms

Warning : Persistent nuisance alarms indicates incorrect type and/or siting of alarm. Review with your installer or Landlord after cleaning as described in Section 5 (Maintenance).

Battery Checking/Changing

Loose Battery Models

• Low Battery Indicator (AC models with loose battery only):
  If you hear the alarm chirp continuously every 30-40 seconds at the same time as the led flashes (and have not just pressed the hush button) it indicates the battery voltage is at an unacceptably low level. Replace the battery at the next possible opportunity.

• Battery Change:

  • Firstly isolate the mains supply at the consumer unit by identifying the appropriate circuit. This may be a dedicated fuse marked “Fire/Smoke Alarms” or with a symbol such as . (If you rent your property, your Landlord may arrange this service for you).

  * The green L.E.D. should now be out. If not, recheck disconnection of power before proceeding. Refer to Page 5, section “v”.
  * Slide screwdriver blade in recess to unlock from base, as indicated by arrow to release locking tab
  * Note correct position of battery and install replacement type as listed below. The alarm cannot be replaced without a battery installed.
  * Reverse procedure to re-install alarm. We recommend the use of alkaline or lithium batteries for a longer service life.
  * To the extent permitted by law, Chubb Fire & Security Pty Ltd excludes all liability for loss or damage to the extent caused by the use of batteries other than Eveready 1222; Energizer 522; Gold Peak 1604S, 1604A; Duracell MN1604, MX1604 or Ultralife U9VL-J.
  * The use of other batteries may have a detrimental effect on operation of the smoke alarm or may cause the battery to explode resulting in injury or fire.
  * Do not use rechargeable batteries.
  * When you have fitted a fresh battery, check test button; if horn sounds then reverse the process above, reconnect to the mains and switch circuit back on at Consumer Unit. If in any doubt, consult a qualified electrician as mains electricity can be hazardous.

Maintenance

• Your alarm is a life saving device. Spending a few minutes each month in vacuuming off any excess dust will enhance its performance and reduce the likelihood of nuisance alarms.
• Vacuum up to the grill and through the slots where dust/talc etc. can enter. The mains supply should firstly be isolated before wiping off with a very mildly damp cloth. Never use cleaning agents/polishes etc..

What to do in an Emergency

• If an alarm sounds without anyone pressing the test button you have a potential emergency.
• Donʼt panic – you will need to think clearly to ensure all family members escape as soon as possible. Never stop to collect belongings etc. – they are replaceable.
• Check the temperature of door handles or doors to check if hot – if hot do not open them – a fire will be raging the other side of the door. Find an alternative escape route.
• Keep doors/windows closed to contain the fire after you have passed through them.
• Call 000 from a neighbourʼs phone. This is preferable to using a mobile.
• Do not re-enter the property until advised it is safe to do so by a Fire Brigade Officer.

 Troubleshooting

| ****

Green L.E.D. not lit

| ****

a.   Loss of mains power – check at Consumer Unit for Blown Fuse or tripped Circuit Breaker.

b.   Check cables at back of alarm, are correctly seated / wired in and the alarm is pushed fully home (see “Battery Changing” section).

2.| Frequent nuisance

alarms

| See sections 2,3,4 and 7. If sited incorrectly/not regularly cleaned as section 5, nuisance alarms

can occur.

| ****

Alarm chirps every 30-40 seconds

| ****

Verify green LED is lit continuously then see section 4 to replace battery if applicable. If unit has rechargeable battery or problem persists after installing a new battery, contact customer service.

4. Alarm does not sound when test button pressed and held.

| See parts 1a and 1b above. Have installer

re-check wiring if Green LED is illuminated, but alarm does not appear to function. If no Green LED check consumer unit. Alarm will still function on battery power, if battery is in serviceable state.

<When operating off battery, the red LED will blink about once a minute >. Check via Test Button.

5.| Interconnected alarms do not sound when test button is| ****

See part 1b above – consult a qualified electrician or your Landlord to remedy as soon as possible.

Useful Hints

• Smoke alarms can only operate correctly if smoke particles reach the unit. Correct selection/siting and installation are covered in the installers manual.
• With the exception of garages/kitchens/bathrooms it is recommended that smoke alarms are fitted in every room and outside all sleeping areas. A professional electrician should be employed for all mains powered (hard wired) alarms.
• If you are redecorating your home, paint fumes can contaminate the alarm – temporarily cover the unit with a plastic bag (during this time the alarm will not function). Never paint the alarm. Only remove the bag when the paint is thoroughly dry. If you extend your property, review your alarm requirements.
• Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years or sooner.
• These products are designed for domestically scaled premises.

Limitations of Smoke Alarms

• Warning :  Smoke alarms are devices that can provide early warning of possible fires; however, alarms have sensing limitations.
• Ionisation sensing alarms may detect invisible fire particles (associated with fast flaming fires) sooner than photoelectric alarms.
• Photoelectric sensing alarms may detect visible fire particles (associated with slow smouldering fires) sooner than ionisation alarms.
• Home fires develop in different ways and are often unpredictable. For maximum protection, Chubb recommends that both Ionisation and Photoelectric alarms be installed.
• Loose batteries, where fitted must be of the specified type, in good condition and installed properly.
• AC only powered alarms will not operate if AC power has been cut off such as by an electrical fire, an open fuse or loss of mains supply.
• All alarms must be tested regularly to make sure the batteries and the alarm circuits are in good operating condition.

Life safety from fire in residential occupancies is based primarily on early notification to occupants of the need to escape, followed by the appropriate egress actions by those occupants. If the alarm is located outside the sleeping room or on a different floor, it may not wake up a sound sleeper.

The use of alcohol or drugs may also impair oneʼs ability to hear the smoke alarm. For maximum protection, a smoke alarm should be installed in each sleeping area on every level of a home.

Smoke alarms cannot provide an alarm if smoke does not reach the unit. Therefore, smoke alarms may not sense fires starting in chimneys, walls, on roofs, on the other side of a closed door or on a different floor. Hearing impaired occupiers should consider fitting additional strobe accessories to give a visual alarm.

Although smoke alarms can help save lives by providing an early warning of a fire, they do not prevent property damage. Home owners and renters should have adequate insurance to protect their property.

If after reviewing this manual you feel that your smoke alarm is defective in any way, do not tamper with the unit. Refer to Section 11. Contact your Installer, Wholesale Distributor or Landlord.

Good Safety Habits
Develop and practice a plan of escape:

• Install and maintain Fire extinguishers on every level of the home and in the kitchen, basement and garage. Know how to use a fire extinguisher prior to an emergency.
• Current studies have shown smoke alarms may not awaken all sleeping individuals, and that it is the responsibility of individuals in the household that are capable of assisting others to provide assistance to those who may not be awakened by the alarm sound, or to those who may be incapable of safely evacuating the area unassisted.
• Make a floor plan indicating all doors and windows and at least two escape routes from each room. Second storey windows may need a rope or chain ladder.
• Have a family meeting and discuss your escape plan, showing everyone what to do in case of a fire.
• Determine a place outside your home where you can meet if a fire occurs.
• Familiarise everyone with the sound of the alarm and train them to leave your home when they hear it.
• Practice a fire drill at least every six months, including fire drills at night. Ensure that small children hear the alarm and wake when it sounds. They must wake up in order to execute the escape plan. Practice allows all occupants to test your plan before an emergency not be able to reach your children. It is important they know what to do.

What to do when the Alarm Sounds

• Alert small children in the home.
• Leave immediately by your escape plan. Every second counts, so don’t waste time getting dressed or picking up valuables.
• In leaving, don’t open any inside door without first feeling its surface. If hot, or you see smoke seepingthrough cracks, don’t open that door! Instead use your alternative exit.
• If the inside of the door is cool, place your shoulder against it, open it slightly and be ready to slam it shut if heat and smoke rush in.
• Stay close to the floor if the air is smoky.Breathe shallowly through a cloth, wet if possible.
• Once outside, go to your selected meeting place and make sure everyone is there.
• Call the fire brigade on 000 from your neighbour’s home or a call box – not from yours.
• Don’t return to your home until the fire officials say that it is all right to do so.
• There are situations where a smoke alarm may not be effective to protect against fire.  For instance:
  • smoking in bed
  • leaving children unsupervised.
  • cleaning with flammable liquids, such as gasoline
  • fires where the victim is intimate with a flaming initiated fire; for example, when a person’s clothes catch fire while cooking.
  • incendiary fires where the fire grows so rapidly that an occupant’s egress is blocked even with properly located detectors.
    Chubb Fire & Security Pty Limited

ABN 47 000 067 541 A UTC Climate, Controls & Security Company 149-155 Milton Street, Ashfield NSW 2131, Australia www.quell.com.au
Chubb New Zealand Limited A UTC Climate, Controls & Security Company3 Fisher Crescent, Mt Wellington, Auckland, New Zealand www.chubb.co.nz

Warranty & Contact Details

TEN YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY

Warranty:

Chubb warrants to the original consumer purchaser that each new smoke alarm will be free from defects in materials and workmanship under normal use for a period of 10 years from the date of purchase. To the extent permitted by law, Chubb agrees to repair or replace (at our discretion) any defective product on presentation of the proof of purchase.

Australia warranty claims:

Where the goods are offered for sale in Australia, the benefits to the consumer given by this warranty are in addition to other rights and remedies of the consumer under the Australian Consumer Law and other applicable laws relating to the goods. Our goods come with guarantees that cannot be excluded under the Australian Consumer Law. You are entitled to a replacement or refund for a major failure and compensation for any other reasonably foreseeable loss or damage. You are also entitled to have the goods repaired or replaced if the goods fail to be of acceptable quality and the failure does not amount to a major failure.

New Zealand warranty claims:

Where the goods are offered for sale in New Zealand, the benefits to the consumer given by this warranty are in addition to other rights and remedies of the consumer under relevant New Zealand consumer protection laws and other applicable laws relating to the goods. Our goods come with guarantees that cannot be excluded under relevant New Zealand consumer protection laws. You are entitled to a replacement or refund for a major failure and compensation for any other reasonably foreseeable loss or damage. You are also entitled to have the goods repaired or replaced if the goods fail to be of acceptable quality and the failure does not amount to a major failure.

Exclusions
Subject to non-excludable laws, this warranty does not cover:

• normal wear and tear to the product or parts
• batteries or other consumables included with this product (excluding sealed non replaceable battery models)
• damage to the product caused by accidents, misuse, abuse, lack of reasonable care, tampering or repair by a person not authorised by Chubb
• any product that has not been installed, operated or maintained in accordance with the manual or operating instructions provided with the product
• any damage caused by improper power input or improper cable connection
• any indirect, special or consequential loss or damage of any kind

To make a claim

If a defect in the product appears within the time frame stated, you are entitled to submit a warranty claim by returning your product to the address shown below. Please contact Chubb on the telephone numbers provided below, Monday to Friday during 9.00AM – 5.00PM. When returning the product, please ensure it is properly packaged so that no damage occurs during transit. Any postage and packaging expenses required to return the product to Chubb will be at your cost.

Please provide the original or a copy of the proof of purchase. Also, please make sure you have included an explanation of the problem.

If Chubb elects to repair the product, please note that goods presented for repair may be replaced by refurbished goods of the same type rather than being repaired. Refurbished parts may be used to repair the goods.

This warranty is provided by:

• Chubb Fire & Security Pty Ltd ABN 47 000 067 541 A UTC Climate, Controls & Security Company 149-155 Milton Street, Ashfield NSW 2131 Australia
• Telephone: 1800 654 435
• Website: www.quell.com.au Chubb New Zealand Limited A UTC Climate, Controls & Security Company 3 Fisher Crescent, Mt Wellington, Auckland, New Zealand
• Telephone: 09 270 7288
• Website: www.quell.co.nz

References

• Chubb Fire & Security : NZ - EN
• Home - Quell
• Quell | Protecting what matters most

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