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2.1 Combination Smoke & CO Alarm

The First Alert Smoke and CO Alarm is a dual-purpose device designed to detect both smoke and carbon monoxide in a single unit. This combination alarm provides comprehensive protection by monitoring for two deadly household threats, ensuring your home and family are safeguarded from potential dangers. By integrating both smoke and CO detection, it eliminates the need for separate alarms, saving space and reducing installation complexity; The alarm is equipped with advanced sensors that can differentiate between smoke and carbon monoxide, providing specific alerts to help you respond appropriately. This feature-rich design ensures that you receive timely warnings, whether it’s a fire or a CO leak, giving you precious time to act. The combination alarm is a practical and efficient solution for whole-home safety, offering peace of mind with its reliable performance and user-friendly operation.

2.2 Advanced Detection Technology

The First Alert Smoke and CO Alarm features cutting-edge detection technology designed to enhance accuracy and reliability. With Precision Detection, the alarm utilizes advanced sensors to quickly identify smoke and carbon monoxide levels, ensuring early warnings for potential threats. Optipath 360 Technology provides 360 degrees of direct access to the smoke sensor, improving detection capabilities and reducing false alarms. The Spread Spectrum Horn Tone employs a varying frequency range (2200–3400 Hz) to make alarms more audible, especially for the elderly or those with hearing impairments. These technologies work together to provide a robust system that accurately detects dangers while minimizing unnecessary alerts. The advanced detection system is complemented by features like voice alerts and interconnectivity, ensuring comprehensive protection for your home and family. This combination of innovative technologies makes the First Alert Smoke and CO Alarm a reliable choice for safeguarding against hidden dangers.

2.3 Voice and Location Alerts

The First Alert Smoke and CO Alarm is equipped with voice and location alerts, enhancing safety by providing clear and specific notifications. When an alarm is triggered, a voice announcement indicates whether the threat is smoke or carbon monoxide, along with the location of the alarm. This feature allows users to quickly identify the nature and source of the danger, enabling a faster and more informed response. The voice alerts are loud and clear, ensuring they can be heard throughout the home, even in noisy environments or by individuals with hearing impairments. Additionally, the location feature helps distinguish between multiple alarms in interconnected systems, making it easier to pinpoint the area of concern. This advanced alert system minimizes confusion during emergencies, providing peace of mind and improving overall home safety. The combination of voice and location alerts makes this alarm a comprehensive solution for protecting your family and property.

2.4 Interconnectivity

The First Alert Smoke and CO Alarm offers advanced interconnectivity, allowing it to connect with other BRK Smoke, CO, and Heat Alarms. This feature ensures that when one alarm detects a threat, all interconnected alarms sound, providing comprehensive coverage throughout your home. The system uses a single interconnect wire to transmit both smoke and carbon monoxide signals, simplifying installation and enhancing reliability. Interconnectivity is particularly important in larger homes or multi-level residences, as it ensures that everyone is alerted no matter where the danger is detected. For new construction, AC and AC/DC smoke alarms must be interconnected to meet NFPA recommendations. Proper wiring is essential to avoid damage to the alarms. By linking multiple units, you create a unified safety network that responds seamlessly to potential threats, offering an additional layer of protection for your family and property. This feature is a key advantage of the First Alert system, ensuring your home is equipped with a robust and interconnected safety solution.

Installation

Install your First Alert Smoke and CO Alarm on ceilings or walls, ensuring optimal placement for detecting threats. Follow NFPA recommendations for placement near sleeping areas and fuel-burning sources to maximize safety and effectiveness.

3.1 Placement Recommendations

For optimal performance, install your First Alert Smoke and CO Alarm on ceilings or walls, following NFPA guidelines. On ceilings, place the alarm near the center, at least 4 inches from walls or corners. For wall mounting, position it between 4 and 12 inches below the ceiling line to avoid dead air spaces. In rooms with peaked or cathedral ceilings, install the first alarm within 3 feet of the peak. Avoid areas near fuel-burning sources like furnaces or water heaters. Ensure no doors or obstructions block smoke or CO from reaching the alarm. Install one alarm on every floor, in every sleeping area, and near bedrooms. For added protection, place additional units in bedrooms and on every level of your home. Always follow local codes and refer to NFPA 72 and 720 for detailed recommendations.

3.2 Step-by-Step Installation

Begin by turning off the power to the area at the circuit breaker or fuse box. Remove the mounting bracket from the alarm base by twisting it counterclockwise. Install the bracket on a standard junction box, ensuring it fits securely. Reattach the alarm base to the bracket by aligning and twisting it clockwise until it clicks. For hardwired models, connect the power connector to the alarm, ensuring proper wiring. If interconnecting multiple alarms, strip 1/2 inch of the orange wire and connect it to the interconnect wire. Once installed, test the alarm by pressing the test button to ensure it sounds and all interconnected units respond. Finally, check for any obstructions and ensure the alarm is free from noisy power sources like generators or dimmers. Refer to the manual for specific wiring and installation details to ensure safe and correct setup.

3.3 Special Requirements

Ensure compliance with NFPA standards for smoke and CO alarms, specifically NFPA 72 and NFPA 720. In new construction, AC and AC/DC smoke alarms must be interconnected. Avoid installing alarms in areas with dead air spaces, such as near corners or low ceilings. For ceiling installations, place the alarm near the center or at least 4 inches from walls. On walls, mount the alarm between 4 and 12 inches from the ceiling. In areas with sloped ceilings, install within 3 feet of the peak. Ensure the alarm is not exposed to excessively noisy power sources like generators or dimmers. For mobile homes, install alarms on inside walls if insulation is lacking. Always turn off power before installation to avoid electrical shock. Refer to local codes and manufacturer guidelines for specific requirements, ensuring proper installation and functionality of your First Alert Smoke and CO Alarm.

Usage

Understand the voice and location alerts for smoke or CO threats. Test the alarm regularly using the test/silence button to ensure proper function and silence unwanted alarms temporarily if needed.

4.1 Understanding Alerts

Your First Alert Smoke and CO Alarm provides clear voice and location alerts to identify threats. For smoke detection, it will announce “Smoke detected in [location].” For carbon monoxide, it alerts “CO detected in [location].” The alarm also uses a loud, sweeping horn tone between 2200-3400 Hz, designed to be audible even for those with age-related hearing loss.

When the alarm sounds, check the LED indicator: a red light flashes during smoke or CO detection, while a yellow light indicates a low battery or error. The voice feature specifies the type of threat and its location, helping you respond quickly.

If the alarm chirps periodically, it signals a low battery or end-of-life warning. For unwanted alarms, press the test/silence button to temporarily mute it. Always investigate the cause of an alert to ensure safety. Refer to the troubleshooting guide for resolving common issues or error codes. Understanding these alerts ensures effective response to potential dangers.

4.2 Testing and Silencing

Regular testing ensures your First Alert Smoke and CO Alarm is functioning properly. Press and hold the test/silence button to activate the test mode, which sounds the horn and verifies the alarm’s operation. Test the alarm weekly to confirm it is working correctly.

To silence unwanted alarms, such as those triggered by cooking, press the test/silence button. This temporarily mutes the alarm for several minutes. For low battery chirps, silencing can delay the alert for up to eight hours.

If the alarm is in error or test mode, pressing the button will clear the condition. The alarm also features a memory that retains the last alert type, helping you identify past issues. Always address the cause of an alarm before silencing to ensure safety. Regular testing and proper silencing ensure your alarm remains reliable and effective in protecting your home and family.

Troubleshooting

Identify common issues like false alarms, connectivity problems, or error codes. Check for obstructions, ensure proper installation, and refer to the error code list for specific solutions to restore functionality and accuracy.

5.1 Common Issues

Common issues with the First Alert Smoke and CO Alarm include false alarms, connectivity problems, and error codes. False alarms may occur due to dust, steam, or cooking fumes near the sensor. To resolve this, clean the alarm with a vacuum or damp cloth and ensure proper placement away from kitchens and bathrooms. Connectivity issues, especially in interconnected systems, can arise from wiring problems or distance between units. Check connections and ensure all alarms are within range. Error codes, such as E1, E2, or E3, indicate specific issues like low battery or sensor malfunctions. Refer to the error code list in the manual for detailed solutions. Low battery chirps can be silenced temporarily, but replace batteries promptly. Dead air spaces may prevent smoke or CO from reaching the sensor, so ensure proper installation following NFPA guidelines. If issues persist, reset the alarm or consult the troubleshooting guide for advanced solutions.

5.2 Error Codes

The First Alert Smoke and CO Alarm uses error codes to indicate specific issues. E1 and E2 typically signal low battery or battery-related problems, while E3 may indicate a sensor malfunction. Other codes like E4 or E5 could point to connectivity issues in interconnected systems. To resolve these, check the battery level, ensure proper installation, and verify wiring connections. If the alarm shows an E6 or E7, it may indicate a system error or firmware issue, requiring a reset or software update. Refer to the manual for a detailed list of error codes and their meanings. For persistent issues, press and hold the test/silence button to reset the alarm. If problems continue, consult the troubleshooting guide or contact customer support for assistance. Always ensure the alarm is powered correctly and free from dust or debris to maintain accurate detection and reliable operation. Regular maintenance and updates are key to optimal performance.

Interconnectivity

First Alert alarms can interconnect with other compatible devices, ensuring all units sound an alert when one detects smoke or CO, enhancing whole-home safety and response to potential threats.

6.1 Linking with Nest Protect

First Alert Smoke and CO Alarms can seamlessly integrate with Nest Protect devices, enhancing your home’s safety system. This interconnectivity allows your First Alert alarm to communicate with Nest Protect, ensuring that when one device detects smoke or carbon monoxide, all connected alarms in the home are triggered. This feature provides comprehensive coverage and immediate alerts, giving you and your family more time to react in an emergency.

To link your First Alert alarm with Nest Protect, ensure both devices are within range and follow the pairing instructions provided in the manual. Once connected, the system will relay alerts between devices, offering a unified response to potential threats. This integration is designed to simplify your safety setup while maximizing protection. Always test the interconnectivity after setup to ensure proper functionality.

Safety Tips

Install Smoke/CO alarms on every floor and in sleeping areas. Test monthly, replace batteries annually, and avoid dead air spaces. Ensure alarms are interconnected for whole-home protection and awareness in emergencies.

7.1 Best Practices

For optimal performance and safety, follow these best practices when using your First Alert Smoke and CO Alarm:

• Install alarms on every floor, in sleeping areas, and near fuel-burning appliances.
• Test alarms monthly and replace batteries annually or as indicated.
• Avoid installing alarms near windows, doors, or ducts to prevent false alarms.
• Keep alarms clean by vacuuming regularly to ensure sensor accuracy.
• Replace alarms every 10 years or when they show end-of-life signals.
• Interconnect alarms for whole-home protection and awareness.
• Avoid placing alarms in areas with high humidity or extreme temperatures.
• Ensure alarms are not obstructed by furniture or curtains.
• Stay informed about local regulations and NFPA recommendations.

By following these guidelines, you can maximize your safety and the effectiveness of your First Alert Smoke and CO Alarm system.

Thank you for choosing First Alert for your home safety needs. This manual has guided you through the installation, usage, and maintenance of your Smoke and CO Alarm, ensuring your family’s protection. By following the outlined steps and best practices, you can rely on your alarm to provide early warnings for potential threats. Regular testing, proper placement, and timely battery replacements are crucial for optimal performance. Remember, a functioning smoke and carbon monoxide alarm is a vital part of your home’s safety system. For any further questions, refer to the troubleshooting section or contact First Alert support. Stay safe, and trust your First Alert Smoke and CO Alarm to protect what matters most.