FIRST ALERT 7020BSL AC Powered Slim Line Smoke and Strobe Light Combo Alarm User Manual

FIRST ALERT 7020BSL AC Powered Slim Line Smoke and Strobe Light Combo

Alarm

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.

© 2021 BRK Brands, Inc. All rights reserved. • Distributed by BRK Brands, Inc. BRK Brands, Inc. is a subsidiary of Newell Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: NWL) • 3901 Liberty Street, Aurora, IL 60504-8122
Customer Service Team: 800-323-9005 • www.firstalert.com • www.brkelectronics.com

All First Alert® and BRK® Smoke Alarms conform to regulatory requirements, including UL217 and are designed to detect particles of combustion. Smoke particles of varying number and size are produced in all fires.

Ionization technology is generally more sensitive than photoelectric technology at detecting small particles, which tend to be produced in greater amounts by flaming fires, which consume combustible materials rapidly and spread quickly. Sources of these fires may include paper burning in a wastebasket, or a grease fire in the kitchen.
Photoelectric technology is generally more sensitive than ionization technology at detecting large particles, which tend to be produced in greater amounts by smoldering fires, which may smolder for hours before bursting into flame. Sources of these fires may include cigarettes burning in couches or bedding.

For maximum protection, use both types of Smoke Alarms on each level and in every bedroom of your home.

INTRODUCTION

Thank you for choosing First Alert® for your Smoke Alarm and hearing impaired strobe light needs. You have purchased a state of the art Smoke and Strobe Light Combo Alarm
designed to provide hearing impaired individuals with a visual and audible warning of a fire. When used with additional carbon monoxide or combination smoke & carbon monoxide alarms it will also provide hearing impaired individuals with a visual and audible warning of a carbon monoxide danger. Please take the time to read this manual and make this Smoke and Strobe Light Combo Alarm an integral part of your family’s safety plan.

Key Features

Low Profile Design: Half the size of a standard alarm 177 Candela LED Light: Powerful 177 candela LED strobe light provides effective visual warning to awaken hearing impaired residents. Strobe Signal Synchronization: Horn and LED syncs with other 7020BSL family of units.
Smart Interconnection: Helps reduce unwanted alarms
Battery Backup: 10 year sealed battery backup provides backup for the smoke alarm during power outages.
(Note: will not power the strobe light).
Quick Mounting Activation: Twist/lock mounting bracket automatically activates 10 year battery backup.
End of Life Indicator: Alerts user when alarm requires replacement Integrated Photoelectric Smoke Alarm and Strobe Light: One device includes both a photoelectric smoke alarm and a strobe light. Requires only one electrical box. Saves installation time.
Smart Strobe: Works with BRK smoke and CO alarms. Separate flash patterns to distinguish between smoke/heat or CO danger.
1Hz Flash Rate: 60 flashes per minute.
Two Latching Features: Alarm Latch – Visually identifies initiating alarm even after alarm condition is over. Low Battery Latch – Visually identifies which unit is in low battery condition.
Two Silence Features: Temporarily silence low battery chirps for up to eight hours before replacing unit or silence an unwanted alarm for several minutes.

FIRE SAFETY TIPS

Follow safety rules and prevent hazardous situations: 1) Use smoking materials properly. Never smoke in bed. 2) Keep matches or lighters away from children; 3) Store flammable materials in proper containers; 4) Keep electrical appliances in good condition and don’t overload electrical circuits; 5) Keep stoves, barbecue grills, fireplaces and chimneys grease- and debris-free; 6)
Never leave anything cooking on the stove unattended; 7) Keep portable heaters and open flames, like candles, away from flammable materials; 8) Don’t let rubbish accumulate.
Keep alarms clean, and test them weekly. Replace alarms immediately if they are not working properly. Smoke Alarms that do not work cannot alert you to a fire. Keep at least one working fire extinguisher on every floor, and an additional one in the kitchen. Have fire escape ladders or other reliable means of escape from an upper floor in case stairs are blocked.

BEFORE YOU INSTALL THIS SMOKE AND STROBE LIGHT COMBO ALARM

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/see 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

• 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, NFPA101; SBC (SBCCI); UBC
  (ICBO); NBC (BOCA); OTFDC (CABO) and any other local or building codes that may apply. Wiring and installation must be performed by a licensed electrician. Failure to follow these guidelines may result in injury or property damage.

• This unit must be powered by a 24-hour, 120VAC pure sine wave 60Hz circuit. Be sure the circuit cannot be turned off by a switch, dimmer, or ground fault circuit interrupter. Failure to connect this unit to a 24-hour circuit may prevent it from providing constant protection.

• This Alarm must have AC or battery power to operate. If the AC power fails, battery back-up will allow the alarm to sound for at least 4 minutes. If AC power fails and the battery is weak, protection should last for at least 7 days. If AC power fails and the battery is dead or missing, the alarm cannot operate.

• Never disconnect the power from an AC powered unit to stop an unwanted alarm. Doing so will disable the unit and remove your protection. In the case of a true unwanted alarm open a window or fan the smoke away from the unit. The alarm will reset automatically when it returns to normal operation. Never remove the batteries from a battery operated unit to stop an unwanted alarm (caused by cooking smoke, etc.). Instead open a window or fan the smoke away from the unit. The alarm will reset automatically.

• Connect this unit ONLY to other compatible units. See “How To Install This Alarm” for details. Do not connect it to any other type of alarm or auxiliary device. Connecting anything else to this unit may damage it or prevent it from operating properly.

• This Alarm has a sealed lithium battery.

• Do not stand too close to the unit when the alarm is sounding. It is loud to wake you in an emergency. Exposure to the horn at close range may harm your hearing. Do not stare directly into light source. Direct exposure to light may harm eyesight.

• Do not paint over the unit. Paint may clog the openings to the sensing chambers and prevent the unit from operating properly.

HOW TO INSTALL THIS ALARM

This Alarm is designed to be mounted on any standard wiring junction box up to a 4-inch (10 cm) size, on either the ceiling or wall (if allowed by local codes). Read “Recommended Locations For Smoke Alarms” and “Locations to Avoid For Smoke Alarms” before you begin installation.
Tools you will need: Standard Flathead Screwdriver, Wire Strippers

WNRNING
Make sure the Alarm is not receiving excessively noisy power. Examples of noisy power could be major appliances on the same circuit, power from a generator or solar power, light dimmer on the same circuit or mounted near fluorescent lighting. Excessively noisy power may cause damage to your Alarm.

THE PARTS OF THIS SMOKE ALARM

The Mounting Bracket:
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 Alarm. It supplies the unit with AC power.
If you need to remove the power connector, turn POWER OFF first. Insert a flat screwdriver blade between the power connector and the security tab inside the power input block. Gently pry back the tab and pull the connector free.

• The black wire is “hot.”
• The white wire is neutral.
• The orange wire is used for interconnect.

The Parts of This Unit

1. Mounting Bracket
2. Mounting Slots
3. Disable Switch
4. Hot (Black) AC Wire
5. Neutral (White) AC Wire
6. Interconnect (Orange) Wire
7. Quick-Connect Power Connector
8. Turn this way to remove from bracket (Counterclockwise)
9. Turn this way to attach to bracket (Clockwise)

FOLLOW THESE INSTALLATION STEPS

The basic installation of this Alarm is similar whether you want to install one Alarm, or interconnect more than one Alarm. If you are interconnecting more than one Alarm, you MUST read “Special Requirements For Interconnected Alarms” below before you begin installation.

ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD.
Turn off power to the area where you will install this unit at the circuit breaker or fuse box before beginning installation. Failure to turn off the power before installation may result in serious electrical shock, injury or death.

1. Position the screw slots on the mounting bracket over the screws in the junction box. Tighten screws into screw head recesses in mounting bracket. Do not over tighten.

2. Using wire nuts, connect the power connector to the household wiring.
   STAND-ALONE ALARM ONLY:

   • Connect the white wire on the power connector to the neutral wire in the junction box.

   • Connect the black wire on the power connector to the hot wire in the junction box.

   • Tuck the orange wire inside the junction box. It is used for interconnect only.
     INTERCONNECTED UNITS ONLY:
     Strip off about 1/2” (12 mm) of the plastic coating on the orange wire on the power connector.

   • Connect the white wire on the power connector to the neutral wire in the junction box.

   • Connect the black wire on the power connector to the hot wire in the junction box.

   • Connect the orange wire on the power connector to the interconnect wire in the junction box. Repeat for each unit you are interconnecting.
     Never connect the hot or neutral wires in the junction box to the orange interconnect wire. Never cross hot and neutral wires between Alarms.

3. Plug the power connector into the back of the Alarm.

4. Position the base of the Alarm over the mounting bracket and turn. The Alarm can be positioned over the bracket every 90°. Turn the Alarm clockwise (right) until the unit locks into place. If this is the first time mounting the alarm, an activation chirp will be heard.

5. Check all connections.
   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.
   STAND-ALONE ALARM ONLY:

   • If you are only installing one Alarm, restore power to the junction box.
     INTERCONNECTED ALARMS ONLY:
     

   • If you are interconnecting multiple Alarms, repeat steps 1-5 for each Alarm in the series. When you are finished, restore power to the junction box.
     DANGER
     ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD. Do not restore power until all Alarms are completely installed. Restoring power before installation is complete may result in serious electrical shock, injury or death.

6. Make sure the Alarm is receiving AC power. Under normal operation, the Green power indicator light will shine continuously.

7. If the Green power indicator light does not light, TURN OFF POWER TO THE JUNCTION BOX and recheck all connections. If all connections are correct and the Green power indicator still does not light when you restore the power, the unit should be replaced immediately.

8. Test each Alarm. Press and hold the Test/Silence button until the unit alarms.
   When testing a series of interconnected units you must test each unit individually. Make sure all units alarm when each one is tested.

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.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERCONNECTED ALARMS

WARNING

• Failure to meet any of the above requirements could damage the units and cause them to malfunction, removing your protection.
• AC and AC/DC 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 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 Alarm initiated an alarm, see below:

• On Initiating Alarms Red LED flashes rapidly
• On All Other Alarms Red LED is Off

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® / BRK® Models 9120, 9120B, SC9120B, 7010, 7010B, 7010BSL, 7020B, SC7020B, SC7010BV, SA520; BRK CO Alarm Models CO5120BN, CO5120PDBN, BRK Heat Alarm Models HD6135, HD6135FB, BRK Auxiliary Device Models RM4, SL177. 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. The interconnect 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.
• All wiring must conform to all local electrical codes and Canadian Electrical Code, CSA 22.1, and/or your local building code for further connection requirements.
  Chapter 2 and/or your local building code for further connection requirements.
  

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 Alarm at least once a month; gently vacuum the outside of the Alarm using your household vacuum’s soft brush attachment. Test the Alarm. Never use water, cleaners or solvents since they may damage the unit.
• If the 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 Alarm will “chirp” about once a minute (the low battery warning). This warning should last 7 days, but you should replace the unit immediately to continue your protection.

If the strobe light lens is loose or broken, the entire unit should be replaced immediately. Never remove the strobe light lens for any reason. Doing so can permanently damage the unit and will void your warranty.
Actual battery service life depends on the alarm and the environment in which it is installed.

WEEKLY TESTING

• NEVER use an open flame of any kind to test this unit. You might accidentally damage or set fire to the unit or to your home. The built-in test switch accurately tests the unit’s operation as required by UL STD 217.
• 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.

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 Alarm. Press and hold the Test/Silence button on the cover of the unit until the alarm sounds (the unit may continue to alarm for a
few seconds after you release the button). If it does not alarm, make sure the unit is receiving power and test it again. If it still does not alarm, replace it immediately. During testing, you will hear a loud, 3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps and the strobe light will begin flashing.
When testing a series of interconnected units you must test each unit individually. Make sure all units alarm when each one is tested.
Note: If you have interconnected this alarm with a BRK carbon monoxide alarm, when you test that alarm you will hear a loud repeating horn pattern from this alarm: 4 rapid beeps, pause, 4 rapid beeps, pause. In addition, the strobe light will flash approximately 1 flash per second for four flashes, then 3 seconds off. The pattern is repeated.
If you have interconnected this alarm with a BRK combination smoke & carbon monoxide alarm, when you test that alarm you will hear a loud continuous beeping sound and the strobe light will flash constant approximately 1 flash per second. Then you will hear a loud repeating horn pattern from this alarm: 4 rapid beeps, pause, 4 rapid beeps, pause and the strobe light will flash approximately 1 flash per second for four flashes, then 3 seconds off. The pattern is repeated.

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. Do not look directly at or touch the lens while the strobe light is flashing. Doing so can hurt your eyes or burn your fingers.

PROPER DISPOSAL OF UNIT

To Properly Dispose of Unit: Waste electrical products should not be disposed of with regular household waste. Please recycle where facilities exist. Check local requirements for disposal of Lithium powered electronic devices. Alarm should be disabled before disposal. See “Permanently Disabling the Alarm” section.

IF THIS SMOKE & STROBE LIGHT ALARM SOUNDS RESPONDING TO AN ALARM
During a smoke incident at this alarm, you will hear 3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps and the strobe light will flash constant approximately 1 flash per second.
Note: If you have interconnected this alarm with a BRK carbon monoxide alarm or combination smoke & carbon monoxide alarm, if there is a carbon monoxide incident you will hear a loud repeating horn pattern from this alarm: 4 rapid beeps, pause, 4 rapid beeps, pause. In addition, the strobe light will intermittently flash approximately 1 flash per second for four flashes, then 3 seconds off. The pattern is repeated.
If you have interconnected this alarm with a BRK smoke alarm, heat alarm or a combination smoke & carbon monoxide alarm, if there is a smoke incident you will hear a loud continuous beeping sound, pause and the strobe light will flash consistently (approximately 1 flash per second).

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.
• ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD: Attempting to disconnect the power connector from the unit when the power is on may result in electrical shock, serious injury or death.

When an interconnected system of AC powered units is in alarm, the alarm indicator light on the unit(s) that initiated the alarm will blink rapidly. It will remain OFF on any remaining units.
If the unit alarms, get everyone out of the dwelling immediately.
If the unit alarms and you are certain that the source of smoke is not a fire—cooking smoke or an extremely dusty furnace, for example—open a nearby window or door and fan the smoke away from the unit (Use the Silence Feature to silence the Alarm). This will silence the alarm, and once the smoke clears the unit will reset itself automatically.

WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF FIRE

• Don’t panic; stay calm. Follow your family escape plan.
• Get out of the house as quickly as possible. Don’t stop to get dressed or collect anything.
• Feel doors with the back of your hand before opening them. If a door is cool, open it slowly. Don’t open a hot door. Keep doors and windows closed, unless you must escape through them.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a cloth (preferably damp). Take short, shallow breaths.
• Meet at your planned meeting place outside your home, and do a head count to make sure everybody got out safely.
• Call the Fire Department as soon as possible from outside. Give your address, then your name.
• Never go back inside a burning building for any reason.
• Contact your Fire Department for ideas on making your home safer.

WARNING
Alarms have various limitations. See “Limitations of Smoke Alarms” for details. Battery Backup: Battery provides backup for the smoke alarm during power outages.
(Note: will not power the strobe light).

UNDERSTANDING THE INDICATOR LIGHTS AND ALARM HORN PATTERNS

AC Power                                     Battery Power
| Flashing Green LED
Normal Standby| Constant Green LED                    approx. once/minute
Operation|
| Strobe Disabled
| Red LED Flashes 3 Times
| Initiating Alarm only                     Red LED Flashes with Horn
| Initiating Alarm only
Alarm Condition| Audible Alarm                               Audible Alarm
| (See patterns below)                     (See patterns below)
| Strobe Flashing                            Strobe Disabled
| (See patterns below)
Smoke Horn Pattern| Approximately 1 beep per second for 3 beeps, then 1 second off. Pattern is repeated.
Smoke Strobe Pattern| Constant, approximately Strobe Disabled 1 flash per second.
CO Horn Pattern| 4 rapid beeps, then 5 seconds off. Pattern is repeated.
| Approximately 1 flash
CO Strobe Pattern| per second for 4 flashes,   Strobe Disabled
| then 3 seconds off.
| Pattern is repeated.
Silence Mode| Red LED Continues Alarm Condition Flash Pattern Initiating Alarm only *
Malfunction Signal| Alarm “chirps” 3 times with 3 Green LED flashes.
End of Life Signal / Low Battery Signal| Alarm “chirps” 5 times with 5 Green LED flashes once per minute.
Latching End of Life Indicator| Green LED flashing 2  No latching indicator seconds on, 2 seconds off.
| Horn off and Red LED
Latching Alarm Indicator| flashing 2 seconds on,
| 2 seconds off  after local No latching indicator
| alarm unless reset by
| test/silence button.
NOTE: When power is applied, unit(s) may alarm momentarily.
When any Alarm in an interconnected series triggers an alarm, its Red LED will flash. The Red LEDs will remain OFF on any remaining alarms in the series. This feature helps responders identify which unit(s) triggered the alarm.
NOTE: The strobe light will not operate under battery power.
NOTE: Latching feature will not operate under battery power.

USING THE SILENCE FEATURES

The Silence Feature is intended to temporarily silence the horn while you identify and correct the problem. Do not use the Silence Feature in emergency situations. It will not extinguish a fire.
The Silence Feature can temporarily quiet an unwanted alarm for several minutes. You can silence this Alarm by pressing the Test/Silence button on the alarm cover for at least 3-5 seconds.
After the Test/Silence button is released, the Red LED blinks during the silence mode.

WHEN THE SMOKE ALARM IS SILENCED…

The Smoke Alarm will remain silent for up to 10 minutes, then return to normal operation.
If the smoke has not cleared–or continues to increase–the device will go back into alarm.
To silence Alarms in an interconnected series: To silence an interconnected series of Smoke/CO Alarms, you must press the Test/Silence button on the initiating alarm (The unit with the flashing red light; the red light will be off on all other Alarms.). If you press the Test/Silence on any other Alarm, it will only silence that unit, not the whole interconnected series.

SILENCING THE LOW BATTERY WARNING

This Silence Feature can temporarily quiet the low battery warning “chirp” for up to 8 hours if AC power is present. Press the Test/Silence button on the Alarm cover until you hear the acknowledge “chirp”. Once the low battery warning “chirp” silence feature is activated, the unit continues to flash the green light once a minute for 8 hours. After 8 hours, the low battery “chirp” will resume.
The Alarm will continue to operate as long as AC power is supplied. However, replace the unit as soon as possible, to maintain protection in event of a power outage.
To deactivate this feature: Press the Test/Silence button again. The unit will go into Test Mode and the low battery warning will resume (LED flashes and unit sounds “chirp” once a minute).

LATCHING FEATURES

Alarm Latch is activated after an Alarm is exposed to alarm levels of smoke. This feature will only work with AC power. After smoke levels drop below alarm levels, the Red LED will begin to flash once every few seconds. It will continue to flash or “latch” until you clear it by testing the alarm.
This feature helps emergency responders, investigators, or service technicians identify which unit(s) in your home were exposed to alarm levels of smoke.
This can help investigators pinpoint the source of smoke.
The Latching Alarm Indicator stays ON until you clear it, so it can alert you to an alarm that occurred while you were away from home, even though smoke present in the air has dropped below alarm levels.
Low Battery Latch is activated when the Alarm is in the “low battery condition”. When this occurs, the LED flashes Green On for 2 seconds/Off for 2 seconds. This feature is
designed to help you identify which Alarm needs to be replaced. Although the Alarm will sound the low battery chirp approximately once every minute, sometimes during the initial
stages of “low battery”, the Alarm will chirp in greater intervals than one minute, sometimes up to several hours, until the battery reaches a steady low battery level. This innovative
feature eliminates the frustration of waiting for and/or identifying which unit is chirping. “SMART INTERCONNECT” FEATURE
This Alarm includes “Smart Interconnect” which enables the Alarm to be interconnected with other First Alert® and BRK Smoke, Heat, and “Smart Interconnect” CO Alarms.
When smoke is detected, all Alarms will sound the smoke horn pattern. When CO is detected, “Smart Interconnect” Alarms will sound the CO horn pattern.

IF YOU SUSPECT A PROBLEM

Smoke Alarms may not operate properly because of dead 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,” then test the Smoke Alarm again. If it fails to test properly when you use the test button, or if the problem persists, replace the Smoke Alarm immediately.

• If you hear a “chirp” approximately once a minute, replace the unit.
• If you experience frequent non-emergency alarms (like those caused by cooking smoke), try relocating the Alarm.
• If the alarm sounds when no smoke is visible, try cleaning or relocating the 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 disable the branch circuit before servicing an AC or AC/DC Alarm. First, turn off the AC power at the circuit breaker or fuse box. Next, remove the battery from Alarms with battery back-up. Finally, press and hold the test button for 5-10 seconds to disable the branch circuit.

Do not try fixing the alarm yourself – this will void your warranty!

If the Alarm is still not operating properly, and it is still under warranty, please
see “How to Obtain Warranty Service” in the Limited Warranty.

PERMANENTLY DISABLING THE ALARM
After 10 years of operation or low battery warning, permanently disable the alarm by following the diagram below. Insert tool into slot in red disable switch. Slide switch fully to the left.

• Enabled View
• Slide Switch Left to Disable
• Disabled View

Note: At end of life or low battery indication (chirp): unit must be put into disabled mode to disable remaining stored energy in battery. Unit will no longer function once put into
this mode. Unit will resist re-mounting. Once disabled, replace Alarm immediately.

RECOMMENDED PLACEMENT FOR HEARING IMPAIRED SMOKE ALARMS WITH INTEGRATED STROBE LIGHT
Smoke Alarms with Integrated Strobe lights intended for the hearing impaired should be located in the bedroom where a hearing impaired person sleeps. Additional alarms should be located in any room where a hearing impaired person may be present and need to be notified of a smoke danger.
According to NFPA 72, for wall mounting, a 177 candela strobe light must be used in a sleeping area when mounting height of lens is less than 24 inches (61 cm) from the ceiling. A Smoke Alarm with an integrated Strobe light must be placed in accordance with the Smoke Alarm placement recommendations.
For Wall Mounting the alarm should be between 4 inches and 12 inches (100 mm and 300 mm) from ceiling to avoid the “dead air space”. For Ceiling Mounting the alarm should
be placed at least 4 inches (100 mm) from wall or corner (see “Locations to Avoid for Smoke Alarms” below). In addition, for wall or ceiling mounting, the unit must be located within 16 linear feet (4.8 meters) from top of lens to the pillow (see diagram below).

RECOMMENDED PLACEMENT

STROBE LIGHT OUTPUT FOR WALL & CEILING MOUNTING
The intensity of the strobe light gradually lessens as the angle increases. In other words, the light is brightest directly in front of the strobe light and is progressively less bright to either side. The following illustrations show how the strobe light is dispersed.
Use them to help you choose where to locate units for the hearing impaired .

PHOTOSENSITIVE EPILEPSY AND STROBE FLASH RATES
Individuals who are susceptible to photosensitive epilepsy might have an increased probability for seizures with multiple strobe lights flashing asynchronously. The frequency or speed of flashing light that is most likely to cause seizures varies from person to person. Generally, flashing lights most likely to trigger seizures are between the frequency of 5
to 30 flashes per second (Hertz). This strobe light flashes at about 1 flash per second.

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° C) and 100° F (38° C). Make sure no door or other obstruction could keep smoke from reaching the Smoke Alarms.
More specifically, install Smoke Alarms:

• On every level of your home, including finished attics and basements.
• Inside every bedroom, especially if people sleep with the door partly or completely closed.
• In the hall near every sleeping area. If your home has multiple sleeping areas, install a unit in each. If a hall is more than 40 feet long (12 meters), install a unit at each end.
• At the top of the first-to-second floor stairway, and at the bottom of the basement stairway.

IMPORTANT
Specific requirements for Smoke Alarm installation vary from state to state and from region to region. Check with your local Fire Department for current requirements in your area. It is recommended AC or AC/DC units be interconnected for added protection.

AGENCY PLACEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS

NFPA 72 Chapter 29
“For your information, the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, NFPA 72, reads as follows:”

*29.5.1 Required Detection.*
29.5.1.1 Where required by other governing laws, codes, or standards for a specific type of occupancy, approved single and multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed as follows:

1. *In all sleeping rooms and guest rooms
2. *Outside of each separate dwelling unit sleeping area, within 21 ft (6.4 m) of any door to a sleeping room, with the distance measured along a path of travel
3. On every level of a dwelling unit, including basements
4. On every level of a residential board and care occupancy (small facility), including basements and excluding crawl spaces and unfinished attics
5. *In the living area(s) of a guest suite
6. In the living area(s) of a residential board and care occupancy (small facility)

(Reprinted with permission from NFPA 72®, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code Copyright © 2010 National Fire Protection Association, Quincy, MA 02269. This reprinted material is not the complete and official position of the National Fire Protection Association, on the referenced subject which is represented only by the standard in its entirety), (National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code® and NFPA 72® are registered trademarks of the National Fire Protection Association, Inc., Quincy, MA 02269).

California State Fire Marshal (CSFM)
Early warning detection is best achieved by the installation of fire detection equipment in all rooms and areas of the household as follows: A Smoke Alarm installed in each separate sleeping area (in the vicinity, but outside bedrooms), and Heat or Smoke Alarms in the living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, hallways, finished attics, furnace rooms, closets, utility and storage rooms, basements, and attached garages.

LOCATIONS TO AVOID FOR SMOKE ALARMS

For best performance, AVOID installing Smoke Alarms in these areas:

• Where combustion particles are produced. Combustion particles form when something burns. Areas to avoid include poorly ventilated kitchens, garages, and furnace rooms. Keep units at least 20 feet (6 meters) from the sources of combustion particles (stove, furnace, water heater, space heater) if possible. In areas where a 20-foot distance is not possible – in modular, mobile, or smaller homes, for example – it is recommended the Smoke Alarm be placed as far from these fuel-burning sources as possible. The placement recommendations are intended to keep these Alarms at a reasonable distance from a fuel-burning source, and thus reduce “unwanted” alarms. Unwanted alarms can occur if a  Smoke Alarm is placed directly next to a fuel-burning source. Ventilate these areas as much as possible.
• In air streams near kitchens. Air currents can draw cooking smoke into the sensing chamber of a Smoke Alarm near the kitchen.
• In very damp, humid or steamy areas, or directly near bathrooms with showers. Keep units at least 10 feet (3 meters) away from showers, saunas, dishwashers, etc.
• Where the temperatures are regularly below 40° F (4° 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, 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 (100 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 (100 mm) and 12 inches (300 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.

ABOUT SMOKE ALARMS IN GENERAL

Battery (DC) operated Smoke Alarms: Provide protection even when electricity fails, provided the batteries are fresh and correctly installed. Units are easy to install, and do not require professional installation. They do not, however, provide interconnected functionality.
AC powered Smoke Alarms: Can be interconnected so if one unit senses smoke, all units alarm. They do not operate if electricity fails. AC with battery (DC) back-up: will operate if electricity fails, provided the batteries are fresh and correctly installed. AC and AC/DC units must be installed by a qualified electrician.
Wireless Interconnected Alarms: Offer the same interconnected functionality as with hardwired alarms, without wires. Units are easy to install and do not require professional installation. They provide protection even when electricity fails, provided the batteries are fresh and correctly installed.
Smoke Alarms for Solar or Wind Energy users and battery backup power systems: AC powered Smoke Alarms should only be operated with true or pure sine wave inverters. Operating this Smoke Alarm with most battery-powered UPS (uninterruptible power supply) products or square wave or “quasi sine wave” inverters will damage the Alarm. If you are
not sure about your inverter or UPS type, please consult with the manufacturer to verify.
Smoke Alarms for the hearing impaired: Special purpose Smoke Alarms should be installed for the hearing impaired. They include a visual alarm and an audible alarm horn, and meet the requirements of the Americans With Disabilities Act. These units can be interconnected so if one unit senses smoke, all units alarm.
Smoke alarms are not to be used with detector guards unless the combination has been evaluated and found suitable for that purpose.

All these Smoke Alarms are designed to provide early warning of fires if located, installed and cared for as described in the user’s manual, and if smoke reaches the Alarm. If
you are unsure which type of unit to install, refer to local building codes as they may also require specific units in new construction or in different areas of the home.

SPECIAL COMPLIANCE CONSIDERATIONS

WARNING
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 additional protection in these facilities.

FCC COMPLIANCE

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance
with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
However, there is no guarantee that the interference will not occur in a particular installation.
If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that of the receiver.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio or TV technician for help.

WARNING
Changes or modifications to the product, not expressly approved by First Alert / BRK Brands, Inc., could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

GENERAL LIMITATIONS OF SMOKE ALARMS

Smoke Alarms have played a key role in reducing deaths resulting from home fires worldwide. However, like any warning device, Smoke Alarms can only work if they are properly located, installed, and maintained, and if smoke reaches the Alarms.
They are not foolproof. Smoke alarms may not waken all individuals. Practice the escape plan at least twice a year, making sure that everyone is involved – from kids to grandparents. Allow children to master fire escape planning and practice before holding a fire drill at night when they are sleeping. If children or others do not readily waken to the sound of the smoke alarm, or if there are infants or family members with mobility limitations, make sure that someone is assigned to assist them in fire drill and in the event of an emergency. It is recommended that you hold a fire drill while family members are sleeping in order to determine their response to the sound of the smoke alarm while sleeping and to determine whether they may need assistance in the event of an emergency.
Smoke Alarms cannot work without power. Battery operated units cannot work if the batteries are missing, disconnected or dead, if the wrong type of batteries are used, or if the batteries are not installed correctly. AC units cannot work if the AC power is cut off for any reason (open fuse or circuit breaker, failure along a power line or at a power station, electrical fire that burns the electrical wires, etc.).
If you are concerned about the limitations of battery or AC power, install both types of units. Smoke Alarms cannot detect fires if the smoke does not reach the Alarms. Smoke from fires in chimneys or walls, on roofs, or on the other side of closed doors may not reach the sensing chamber and set off the Alarm. That is why one unit should be installed inside each bedroom or sleeping area—especially if bedroom or sleeping area doors are closed at night—and in the hallway between them.
Smoke Alarms may not detect fire on another floor or area of the dwelling. For example, a stand-alone unit on the second floor may not detect smoke from a basement fire until the fire spreads.
This may not give you enough time to escape safely. That is why recommended minimum protection is at least one unit in every sleeping area, and every bedroom on every level of your dwelling. Even with a unit on every floor, stand-alone units may not provide as much protection as interconnected units, especially if the fire starts in a remote area. Some safety experts recommend installing interconnected AC powered units with battery back-up (see “About Smoke Alarms”) or professional fire detection systems, so if one unit senses smoke, all units alarm. Interconnected units may provide earlier warning than stand-alone units since all units alarm when one detects smoke.
Smoke Alarms may not be heard. Though the alarm horn in this unit meets or exceeds current standards, it may not be heard if: 1) the unit is located outside a closed or partially closed door, 2) residents recently consumed alcohol or drugs, 3) the Alarm is drowned out by noise from stereo, TV, traffic, air conditioner or other appliances, 4) residents are hearing impaired or sound sleepers. Special purpose units, like those with visual and audible alarms, should be installed for hearing impaired residents.
Smoke Alarms may not have time to alarm before the fire itself causes damage, injury, or death, since smoke from some fires may not reach the unit immediately.
Examples of this include persons smoking in bed, children playing with matches, or fires caused by violent explosions resulting from escaping gas.
Smoke Alarms are not foolproof. Like any electronic device, Smoke Alarms are made of components that can wear out or fail at any time. You must test the unit weekly to ensure your continued protection. Smoke Alarms cannot prevent or extinguish fires. They are not a substitute for property or life insurance.
Smoke Alarms have a limited life. The unit should be replaced immediately if it is not operating properly. You should always replace a Smoke Alarm after 10 years from date of purchase. Write the purchase date on the space provided on back of unit.

LIMITED WARRANTY

BRK Brands, Inc., (“BRK”) the maker of First Alert® brand and BRK® brand products, warrants that for a period of ten years from the date of purchase, this product will be free from defects in material and workmanship. BRK, at its option, will repair or replace this product or any component of the product found to be defective during the warranty period. Replacement will be made with a new or remanufactured product or component. If the product is no longer available, replacement may be made with a similar product of equal or greater value.

This is your exclusive warranty.
This warranty is valid for the original retail purchaser from the date of initial retail purchase and is not transferable. Keep the original sales receipt. Proof of purchase is required to obtain warranty performance. BRK dealers, service centers, or retail stores selling BRK products do not have the right to alter, modify or any way change the terms and conditions of this warranty.
This warranty does not cover normal wear of parts or damage resulting from any of the following: negligent use or misuse of the product, use on improper voltage or current, use contrary to the operating instructions, disassembly, repair or alteration by anyone other than BRK or an authorized service center. Further, the warranty does not cover Acts of God, such as fire, flood, hurricanes and tornadoes or any batteries that are included with this unit.
BRK shall not be liable for any incidental or consequential damages caused by the breach of any express or implied warranty. Except to the extent prohibited by applicable law, any implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose is limited in duration to the duration of the above warranty. Some states, provinces or jurisdictions do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages or limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitations or exclusion may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights that vary from state to state or province to province.

How to Obtain Warranty Service

Service: If service is required, do not return the product to your retailer. In order to obtain warranty service, contact the Customer Service Team at 1-800-323-9005. To assist us in serving you, please have the model number and date of purchase available when calling.
For Warranty Service return to: BRK Brands, Inc., 1301 Joe Battle, El Paso, TX 79936 Battery: BRK Brands, Inc. make no warranty, express or implied, written or oral, including that of merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose with respect to battery.
Visit www.firstalert.com or www.brkelectronics.com for more information.

References

• BRK | Home
• Carbon Monoxide and Fire Safety Products | Fire Safety Education | The Most Trusted Brand in Fire Safety

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