Regulatory Information for CO Alarms

HOW CAN I PROTECT MY FAMILY FROM CO POISONING?

A CO Alarm is an excellent means of protection. It monitors the air and sounds a loud alarm before Carbon Monoxide levels become threatening for average, healthy adults.

A CO Alarm is not a substitute for proper maintenance of home appliances.

To help prevent CO problems and reduce the risk of CO poisoning:

•Clean chimneys and flues yearly. Keep them free of debris, leaves, and nests for proper air flow. Also, have a professional check for rust and corrosion, cracks, or separations. These conditions can prevent proper air movement and cause backdrafting. Never “cap” or cover a chimney in any way that would block air flow.

•Test and maintain all fuel-burning equipment annually. Many local gas or oil companies and HVAC companies offer appliance inspections for a nominal fee.

•Make regular visual inspections of all fuel-burning appliances. Check appliances for excessive rust and scaling. Also check the flame on the burner and pilot lights. The flame should be blue. A yellow flame means fuel is not being burned completely and CO may be present. Keep the blower door on the furnace closed. Use vents or fans when they are available on all fuel-burning appliances. Make sure appliances are vented to the outside. Do not grill or barbecue indoors, or in garages or on screen porches.

•Check for exhaust backflow from CO sources. Check the draft hood on an operating furnace for a backdraft. Look for cracks on furnace heat exchangers.

•Check the house or garage on the other side of shared wall.

•Keep windows and doors open slightly. If you suspect that CO is escaping into your home, open a window or a door. Opening windows and doors can significantly decrease CO levels.

In addition, familiarize yourself with all enclosed materials. Read this manual in its entirety, and make sure you understand what to do if your CO Alarm sounds.

WHAT LEVELS OF CO CAUSE AN ALARM?

Underwriters Laboratories Inc. Standard UL2034 requires residential CO Alarms to sound when exposed to levels of CO and exposure times as described below. They are measured in parts per million (ppm) of CO over time (in minutes).

UL2034 Required Alarm Points*:

•If the alarm is exposed to 400 ppm of CO, IT MUST ALARM BETWEEN 4 and 15 MINUTES.

•If the alarm is exposed to 150 ppm of CO, IT MUST ALARM BETWEEN 10 and 50 MINUTES.

•If the alarm is exposed to 70 ppm if CO, IT MUST ALARM BETWEEN 60 and 240 MINUTES.

*Approximately 10% COHb exposure at levels of 10% to 95% Relative Humidity (RH).

The unit is designed not to alarm when exposed to a constant level of 30 ppm for 30 days.

CO Alarms are designed to alarm before there is an immediate life threat. Since you cannot see or smell CO, never assume it’s not present.

•An exposure to 100 ppm of CO for 20 minutes may not affect average, healthy adults, but after 4 hours the same level may cause headaches.

•An exposure to 400 ppm of CO may cause headaches in average, healthy adults after 35 minutes, but can cause death after 2 hours.

Standards: Underwriters Laboratories Inc. Single and Multiple Station carbon monoxide alarms UL2034.

According to Underwriters Laboratories Inc. UL2034, Section 1-1.2: “Carbon monoxide alarms covered by these requirements are intended to respond to the presence of carbon monoxide from sources such as, but not limited to, exhaust from internal-combustion engines, abnormal operation of fuel-fired appliances, and fireplaces. CO Alarms are intended to alarm at carbon monoxide levels below those that could cause a loss of ability to react to the dangers of Carbon Monoxide exposure.” This CO Alarm monitors the air at the Alarm, and is designed to alarm before CO levels become life threatening. This allows you precious time to leave the house and correct the problem. This is only possible if Alarms are located, installed, and maintained as described in this manual.

Gas Detection at Typical Temperature and Humidity Ranges: The CO Alarm is not formulated to detect CO levels below 30 ppm typically.

Audible Alarm: 85 dB minimum at 10 feet (3 meters).

GENERAL LIMITATIONS OF CO ALARMS

This CO Alarm is intended for residential use. It is not intended for use in industrial applications where Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements for Carbon Monoxide Alarms must be met. This device is not intended to alert hearing impaired residents.

CO Alarms may not waken all individuals. If children or others do not readily waken to the sound of the CO Alarm, or if there are infants or family members with mobility limitations, make sure that someone is assigned to assist them in the event of an emergency.

This CO Alarm will not sense CO that does not reach the sensors. It will only sense CO at the sensor. CO may be present in other areas. Doors or other obstructions may affect the rate at which CO reaches the sensors.

CO Alarms may not be heard. The alarm horn loudness meets or exceeds current UL standards of 85 dB at 10 feet (3 meters). However, if the CO Alarm is installed outside the bedroom, it may not wake up a sound sleeper or one who has recently used drugs or has been drinking alcoholic beverages. This is especially true if the door is closed or only partly open. Even persons who are awake may not hear the alarm horn if the sound is blocked by distance or closed doors. Noise from traffic, stereo, radio, television, air conditioner, or other appliances may also prevent alert persons from hearing the alarm horn. This CO Alarm is not intended for people who are hearing impaired.

This CO Alarm is not a substitute for life insurance. Though this CO Alarm warns against increasing CO levels, BRK Brands, Inc. does not warrant or imply in any way that they will protect lives. Homeowners and renters must still insure their lives.

This CO Alarm is not foolproof. Like all other electronic devices, this CO Alarm has limitations. It can only detect CO that reaches the sensors. It may not give early warning if the source of CO is in a remote part of the home, away from the alarm device.

This CO Alarm has a limited life. Although this CO Alarm and all of its parts have passed many stringent tests and are designed to be as reliable as possible, any of these parts could fail at any time. Therefore, you must test this device weekly. The unit should be replaced immediately if it is not operating properly.

CO615 specifications

The First Alert CO615 is a highly reliable carbon monoxide detector that combines advanced technology and essential features to ensure the safety of your home and loved ones. As an essential tool for detecting the presence of carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas that can be fatal, the CO615 offers peace of mind through its efficient functionality.

One of the standout features of the CO615 is its electrochemical sensor, which is highly sensitive to low levels of carbon monoxide. This technology ensures that the detector can respond quickly to the presence of this dangerous gas, providing timely alerts and allowing for prompt action. The detector has a clear and loud alarm, which emits a powerful sound to alert residents of any potential danger.

The CO615 also includes a convenient digital display that shows the current level of carbon monoxide in the environment. This feature not only allows users to monitor the air quality continuously but also helps them understand if the levels are creeping up or are within a safe range. The display also features a battery status indicator, so users can easily check if the device is functioning properly.

In terms of power, the CO615 operates on three AA batteries, which provides a reliable source of energy. Additionally, this model is designed with a long battery life, ensuring that the unit performs effectively over time without the need for frequent replacements. The low battery chirp signal acts as a timely reminder when it's time to change the batteries, preventing the risk of the unit becoming inactive.

Installation is straightforward, as the CO615 can be mounted on walls or placed on flat surfaces. Its compact design allows it to blend seamlessly into any home environment. The unit is also backed by a comprehensive warranty, giving buyers confidence in their investment.

Overall, the First Alert CO615 is a top choice for those seeking a dependable carbon monoxide detector. Its advanced electrochemical sensor, clear digital display, and user-friendly design make it a practical solution for maintaining a safe living space. With its emphasis on efficiency and reliability, the CO615 serves as a crucial safeguard against the dangers of carbon monoxide exposure.