SMOKE ALARM MANUAL
Ionization Type Model - 120 VAC Hardwire with Battery
-120 Volt AC Hardwire Smoke Alarm with Battery
•Install alarms outside of every bedroom area and on every floor of your home. Please refer to Section 3 “Where to Locate Smoke Alarms” for details.
•Install the alarm as close as possible to the center of the ceiling.
•Your Smoke Alarm is packaged with the
•Replace the
•Test the alarm weekly by pressing and holding the test button for up to 20 seconds until the alarm sounds.
•The model described in this manual is designed for single family residences, including homes and apartments.
Smoke Alarm Safety Features•Battery
•
•
•Operating Lights (LED’s) - A continuous green light located behind the slotted case indicates the smoke alarm is receiving AC power. A red light that flashes approximately every 45 seconds confirms that the battery is operational.
•Low Battery Warning - If powered only by battery the unit “beeps” approximately every 45 seconds for up to 30 days when the battery needs replacing. If the unit is receiving continuous AC power, the low battery beep will continue indefinitely.
•Battery Removal Indication - Battery compartment drawer is designed to resist closing when the battery is removed. A visual reminder to replace the battery. Low battery warning beep is disabled with the drawer open.
•Interconnection - Interconnection facilities for up to 11 other units, using only three wires, including AC power. When one alarm sounds, all properly interconnected smoke alarms follow. NOTE: Interconnect only to the models specified in Section 6.
•Alarm Source Indicator - Only the red operating light in the unit originating the alarm will flash rapidly in the event of an alarm. With interconnected units, an easy check to determine the originator.
•Locking Keys - Two auxiliary locking keys provided. Use key # 1 to lock mounting plate to smoke alarm. Use key # 2 to lock mounting plate and battery drawer to the smoke alarm to prevent opening of the battery drawer. Reduced risk of unauthorized removal.
•Sensitivity Test Button - Tests sensitivity, as well as circuitry, battery and horn. With interconnected units, activating test button on one unit will cause all units to sound. An important and convenient check of system integrity.
•Quick Disconnect Power Connection - For easy installation. Connect the wires separately from the unit and then plug into back of the unit.
•Detachable Base Plate - For easily securing the alarm to the junction box.
CONTENTS OF THIS MANUAL1.CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS OF SMOKE ALARMS
2.SAFETY TIPS
3.WHERE TO LOCATE SMOKE ALARMS
4.NFPA RECOMMENDATIONS
5.LOCATIONS TO AVOID
6.INSTALLATION AND TESTING
7.BATTERY REPLACEMENT
8.MAINTENANCE AND TROUBLESHOOTING
9.LIMITED WARRANTY
10.OTHER AMERICAN SENSORS PRODUCTS
1. CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS OF SMOKE ALARMSAmerican Sensors smoke alarms are designed to provide early warning of fire and smoke at reasonable cost. Early warning can mean the difference between a safe escape and no escape at all. While smoke alarms can provide invaluable protection for you and your family, they do have limitations.
•Smoke alarms cannot work without power. Battery operated alarms will not work without proper batteries, with dead batteries or if batteries are not properly installed. AC powered alarms will not work if their AC power supply is cut off by an electrical fire, an open fuse, a circuit breaker or any other reason.
If you are concerned about the reliability of either batteries or your AC power supply for any of the above reasons, you should install in your home both AC and battery powered smoke alarms for added security. This American Sensors Smoke Alarm model SA379 is AC powered with battery
•Smoke alarms are incapable of sounding the alarm until smoke reaches the sensing chamber. Anything preventing smoke from reaching the alarm may delay or prevent an alarm. A smoke alarm cannot detect fire in the walls, chimney or roof unless and until a significant amount of smoke reaches the alarm. A closed door may prevent smoke from reaching an alarm on the other side of the door. A smoke alarm may not
sense a fire on another floor of a home. For example, a basement smoke alarm may not detect a fire which started on the first or second floor.
•Smoke alarms may not be heard. The loudness of the horn in your alarm meets current standards. However, the sound may be blocked by distance, closed doors, or ambient noise such as traffic or a stereo. Smoke alarms may not be heard by persons who are hard of hearing.
For these reasons, a smoke alarm should be installed in every room or at least on every level of your home. American Sensors recommends that hardwire AC Powered smoke alarms be interconnected, so that one alarm will trigger all other Smoke alarms to sound their alarms.
•Smoke alarms are not
•Smoke alarms are not substitutes for property, disability, life or other insurance of any kind. Home owners and renters should continue to insure their lives and property. Consult your insurance agent.
•Smoke alarms have limited lives. One or more of the many components could fail at any time. Therefore, test your smoke alarm weekly. Clean and take care of it as described in this manual. Repair or replace the smoke alarm when it fails to test properly. Your smoke alarm should be replaced if it is ten years old.
• | Ionization Technology vs. |
| |
| Photoelectronic Technology |
| Smoke Alarms |
There are two different types of smoke alarm technology currently in general use: ionization and photoelectronic. While both types of technology are suitable for general residential use, an ionization alarm will normally respond faster to fast flaming fires, while a photoelectronic alarm may be more sensitive to detecting slow smoldering fires. Because home fires develop in different ways and are often unpredictable in their growth, it is impossible to predict which type of alarm will provide the earliest warning. For best home protection install at least one photoelectronic and one ionization smoke alarm on each level of your home. Model SA700 is a 2 in 1 smoke alarm utilizing both ionization and photoelectronic technology. Model SA379 is an ionization type smoke alarm.
A photoelectronic smoke alarm senses smoke using an electronic photo receptor to sense the scattering of light by smoke particles. The American Sensors model SA388 is a photoelectronic type smoke alarm.
2. SAFETY TIPSProperly installed and maintained smoke alarms are an essential part of a good home fire safety program. Your fire safety program should also include a review of fire hazards and the elimination of dangerous conditions whenever possible. Consider the following tips:
•Use smoking materials properly. Never smoke in bed.
•Keep matches and cigarette lighters away from children.
•Store flammable materials in proper containers. Never use them near an open flame or sparks.
•Keep electrical appliances in good condition. Do not overload electrical circuits.
•Keep stoves, fireplaces, chimneys, and barbecue grills grease free. Make sure they are properly installed and away from any combustible materials.
•Keep portable heaters and open flames such as candles away from combustible material.
•Do not allow rubbish to accumulate.
•Keep a supply of extra batteries on hand for your battery powered smoke alarms.
•Do not stand too close to the alarm when the unit is in alarm as the loud horn could damage your hearing.
Never disconnect the battery or the AC power on any type of smoke alarm to silence
a nuisance alarm. Clear the area of smoke by opening doors or windows or fanning the smoke away. Use the
Most important, when fire strikes, a prepared and practiced escape plan can make the difference between life and death. Develop an escape plan and practice it with the entire family, including small children.
•Ensure all family members are familiarized with the alarm signal.
•Prepare an escape plan. Draw a Floor Plan of Your Home and determine two exits from each room. There should be a way to get out of each bedroom without opening the door.
•Have Fire Drills Often. Practice your Escape and BE PREPARED.
•Decide on a meeting place at a safe distance from your home.
IN CASE OF FIRE•Don’t waste time collecting possessions after a fire starts.
•Arouse all occupants and leave the building. Your most valuable possession is your life.
•Doors can mean escape or death. Never open doors without first checking for heat. Test them with your hands, if they feel warm, fire may be walled up behind them - leave closed and find another escape route.
•Call the fire department from OUTSIDE the building.
•If trapped inside, stay close to the floor, cover mouth with cloth, conserve breath as you crawl to safety.
•Keep all doors and windows closed except for escape purposes.
•NEVER
•Keep your family in a
Your local fire department may be able to offer you additional ideas for safety and escape plans in the home.
As a minimum, smoke alarms should be located between sleeping areas and potential sources of fire such as a kitchen, heated garage or basement. In single storey homes with one sleeping area, an alarm should be installed in the hallway outside the bedrooms (see Figure 1). In single storey homes with two separate sleeping areas, a minimum of two alarms are required, one outside each sleeping area (see Figure 2). In
•In every room of your home (except the bathroom): Research indicates that substantial increases in warning time can be obtained with each properly installed, additional alarm.
•In bedrooms: In anticipation of fires originating within these rooms, caused by faulty wiring, lamps, appliances, smoking or other hazards.
•In hallways: At a distance no greater than 13 feet (4 meters) from the farthest wall and no greater than 26 feet (8 meters) from the next alarm.
•In the center of a room or hallway: As it is impossible to predict the source of a fire. If it is necessary to place the alarm on a wall, always locate the top of the smoke alarm
•As needed: To compensate for closed doors and other obstacles that may interfere with the path of smoke to an alarm. They may also prevent occupants on one side of a closed door from hearing a alarm on the other side of the door.
Model SA379 - Professional
to silence nuisance alarms. Do not install it directly over a stove, toaster or dishwasher.
READ “CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS OF SMOKE ALARMS” in Section 1 of this manual.
Your local fire department or insurance company may be able to give you further advice on the best smoke alarm locations in your home. Call them and ask.
Dining Kitchen | Bedroom Bedroom | Dining | Kitchen Bedroom |
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| TV Room |
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| Living Room |
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Living Room | Bedroom |
| Bedroom |
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| Bedroom Hall | Bedroom |
| Bedroom |
| Figure 2 |
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Figure 1 |
| Living |
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| Room | Hall Kitchen |
Smoke alarms for limited protection |
| Figure 3 |
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Additional smoke alarms for better coverage |
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Basement |
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| Furnace | |
These diagrams show smoke alarm locations as recommended as above in 3a.
3b. WHERE TO LOCATE SMOKE ALARMS IN MOBILE HOMES AND RECREATIONAL VEHICLES (RV’s)
Note: Power supply must be 120 Volts AC for model SA379.
In mobile homes and RV’s built after 1978 locate the smoke alarm as described above.
Older mobile homes and RV’s may have little or no insulation compared to the ones built post 1978. These uninsulated exteriors can disrupt airflow around the smoke alarm in hotter or colder weather. Locate the alarm only on interior walls 4" to 6" (10 to 15 cm) from ceiling 1. if you own an older mobile home or RV, or 2. if you notice the exterior walls and/or ceiling are noticeably cold or warm or 3. if you are uncertain about the quality of insulation.
Regardless of the age of the mobile home or RV, locate alarms throughout to ensure maximum protection. Follow the location instructions in this manual.
4. NFPA RECOMMENDATIONSFor your information, the National Fire Protection Association’s Standard 72, Section
Avoid locations where smoke may not reach the alarm in time to provide early warning, or where the alarm may not be effective.
DO NOT PLACE SMOKE ALARMS:
•In turbulent air from fans, doors, windows, etc. The rapid air movement may prevent combustion particles from entering the alarm.
•In dead air spaces such as at the peak of an “A” frame ceiling. “Dead air” at the top may prevent smoke from reaching the alarm in time to provide early warning. In rooms with simple sloped, peaked or gabled ceilings, install smoke alarms on the ceiling 3 feet (90 cm) from the highest point of the ceiling. Note: For complex ceiling structures, consult a safety expert for the number of alarms required and the best locations.
•In very hot or cold areas where the temperature exceeds 1000F (380C) or falls below 400F (50C).
•Less than 6 inches (15 cm) from the wall when mounted on the ceiling.
Nuisance alarms could result when smoke alarms are located where interference may occur with the sensing chamber. To
avoid nuisance alarms, DO NOT place smoke alarms:
•In high humidity areas such as bathrooms and attics. Place smoke alarms at least 10 feet (3 meters) away from bathrooms.
•In
•In poorly ventilated kitchens or garages.
•In very dusty and dirty areas.
•Near fluorescent lights. Place smoke alarms at least 5 feet (1.5 meters) from fluorescent lights.
This smoke alarm is suitable for residential use. It is not to be connected to a
commercial or industrial fire alarm panel.
6. INSTALLATION AND TESTINGLocking Keys - Optional
This model has optional locking keys to better secure either the alarm and/or the alarm and
A. Installation
Mount to any standard or rectangular junction box with a minimum depth of 1 inch (25mm). 120V AC, 55mA operation. WARNING: Wiring should only be installed by a licensed electrician in accordance with the National Electrical Code and local codes.
WARNING: The circuit used to power the alarm must be a 24 hour voltage circuit that cannot be turned off by a switch or a ground fault interrupter. It is highly recommended that smoke alarms be wired on a separate circuit (one with no other lights or appliances) to ensure maximum reliability of AC power supply. For installation of Smoke Alarms in Dwelling Units, it is important to follow the National Electrical Code and local codes.
1.Electricity must be turned off at service entrance before beginning installation to prevent electrical shock or equipment damage.
2.Location must comply with applicable building codes.
3.Install a junction box where you plan to install the alarm. Use standard 14 gauge wire.
4.Grasp the tab on the battery drawer and slide it straight out.
5.Reposition the battery in its compartment as shown on the markings in the drawer.
6.Push the drawer straight in until it is flush with the housing.
7.Test as recommended in “Operation” section.
8.Connect black and white wires, color to color, from power connector to AC power leads.
9.For multiple station, use the orange wire for interconnection. If unit is not to be interconnected, cap unused wire.
10.Loosen or remove screws from junction box.
11.Attach flat side of mounting plate and tighten screws to fit snugly against junction box and ceiling or wall.
quick disconnect | Smoke alarm |
power connector |
|
mounting plate | paper gasket (not |
12.Bring power connector through center opening.
13.Slip the paper gasket supplied with the alarm over the power connection and then onto the mounting plate so that the four plastic tabs on the mounting plate will hold the gasket in place. The gasket will prevent downward air currents from entering the smoke alarm through holes in the back of the alarm. Unless blocked off, downward air currents prevent smoke from entering the alarm.
WARNING: IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT YOU INSERT THE GASKET WHEN INSTALLING YOUR SMOKE ALARM.
14.Plug wire connector into the back of the alarm.
15.Align the plug area on the smoke alarm with the cut out in the gasket and place the smoke alarm in the mounting plate, turn clockwise to fasten it to the mounting plate.
16.If auxiliary lock is desired insert either key # 1 or # 2 into the slot marked “Key Slot” in the base of the alarm just below the battery drawer. Locking key should “click” into position and be flush with the alarm housing (keys are enclosed with the alarm in plastic wrapper).
To secure | To secure smoke alarm |
smoke alarm to | to mounting plate and |
mounting plate. | also secure |
| battery. |
CAUTION: Do not attempt to remove alarm or open battery drawer without first removing locking key. If key is not first removed, damage may result (see below).
17.Test alarm operation after installation in accordance with “Operation: How to Test” instructions.
NOTE: Maximum interconnect wiring length is 150 feet (50 meters).
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| BLACK | |
| Outlet Box | WHITE 120VAC, 60Hz | |
MODEL SA379 |
| Cap Unused Wire | |
| Twist Connectors | ||
120VAC | |||
Ceiling | |||
c/w 9VDC Battery | |||
Mounting Plate | |||
Interconnectable |
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| Supplied Gasket Must Be | ||
Smoke Alarm |
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SINGLE STATION | Installed In Mounting Plate | ||
| Quick Disconnect | ||
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| Smoke Alarm | Power Connector | |
BLACKWHITE 120VAC, 60Hz
ORANGE interconnect
MULTIPLE STATION
IMPORTANT: The SA379 is not interconnectable with any other model produced by another manufacturer. The SA379 may be interconnected only with the following UL listed smoke alarm models:
American Sensors | COS2010 |
American Sensors | SA379 |
American Sensors | SA360 |
ASI Electronics (American Sensors) | ESA5010 |
ASI Electronics (American Sensors) | ESA5011 |
Dicon Safety Products Inc. | 670L |
Dicon Safety Products Inc. | 670LR |
Dicon Safety Products Inc. | 370LBX |
Note: This equipment should be installed in accordance with the National Fire Protection Association Standard 72. (National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA02269).
To Remove Locking Key
To remove the locking key, insert a small screwdriver into the small hole at the top of the battery drawer. Apply pressure at the tip of the screwdriver, pushing up on the locking key. The locking key will pop out.
To Activate the
Simply press the
Variations in Length of
The
If the level of smoke density increases, the length of the Alarm- Pause® period will shorten. As the level of smoke density approaches 4 per cent per foot obstruction (a very heavy concentration of smoke), the smoke alarm will override the
Before Installation:
1.Connect battery. Ensure that the battery is correctly installed. Positive terminal to positive contact and negative terminal to negative contact, as indicated in the battery drawer. Reversing the battery in the compartment should not cause any damage to the smoke alarm. If the drawer is pushed all the way in, a low battery beep will sound when the AC power is applied after installation if the battery is improperly installed.
Storage in low humidity, and certain transportation conditions, may cause electrostatic charges to build up in the alarm system housing. Although harmless, these charges may increase the length of time during which the horn sounds upon battery insertion or test button operation. The condition may be cleared by gently wiping the outside of the plastic cover with a clean, damp cloth.
2.Check that the red operating light flashes approximately every 45 seconds.
3.Press and hold the test button until the alarm sounds. NOTE: It may be necessary to press the test button for up to 20 seconds for an alarm to sound. An alarm is indicated by 3 constantly repeating beeps every 4 seconds, with the red LED flashing intermittently . An alarm may continue to sound for up to 10 seconds after the button is released.
After Installation
1.Check to see that the green operating light is on. The operating light is visible behind the slotted case and confirms that the smoke alarm is receiving AC power.
2.At least once a week, press the test button until the alarm sounds, then release.
NOTE: Multiple Station Only:
4.Test each alarm separately in the system.
5.Determine that the initiating alarm triggers other alarms in the system.
7. BATTERY REPLACEMENTThe Eveready 216, 522, 1222, Duracell MN1604, MX1604 and the Gold Peak 1604P are the only acceptable
NOTE: If the battery drawer is open, the low battery warning beep is disabled. The battery drawer is designed to resist closing when the
Use of a
VACUUM EVERY SIX MONTHS
Your smoke alarm should be cleaned every six months to help keep it working efficiently. REMOVE POWER TO ALARM. Gently vacuum through the vents of the alarm with a soft brush attachment. Keep vacuum nozzle from touching the unit.
Problems are indicated by these events:
1.The alarm does not sound upon pressing the test button.
2.The green operating light does not remain steadily on when the unit is AC powered.
3.The red operating light remains steadily on or off (i.e. does not flash once every 45 seconds, when the unit is not in alarm).
Try the following:
1.Inspect breaker or use in power circuit to alarm.
2.Check that the unit contains recommended battery type.
3.Check the battery is properly connected (Observe polarity).
4.Gently vacuum as recommended above.
5.Replace battery.
6.Call a trained, experienced serviceman to inspect house wiring and connection to alarms.
If these procedures do not correct the problem, do NOT attempt repairs. If the smoke alarm is within warranty period and terms, indicate the nature of the problem and return the unit with proof of purchase to the point of purchase, distributor or manufacturer. See below for instructions. Units beyond warranty cannot be economically repaired.
FALSE ALARMS:Model SA379: Press the
Abnormal air conditions may cause the highly sensitive smoke alarm to give a “false” alarm. If no fire is apparent, ventilate the room and/or blow fresh air into the unit until the alarm stops. Once cleared, the smoke alarm will automatically reset.
DO NOT DISCONNECT THE AC POWER OR THE BACK- UP BATTERY
Dust can lead to excess sensitivity. Vacuum as recommended above.
9. LIMITED WARRANTYYour American Sensors SA379 Smoke Alarm, excluding the battery is warranted for ten years from the date of purchase
against defect in material and workmanship. Units returned to Dicon Global Inc. with proof of purchase date
during this period as a result of such defects will be repaired, or replaced at Dicon Global Inc.’s option.
This warranty only covers defects in material or
workmanship in normal residential use and does not cover the battery, nor does this warranty cover damage resulting from negligent handling, misuse, or lack of reasonable care. This warranty is in lieu of any other warranty either expressed or implied.
DICON GLOBAL INC. SHALL HAVE NO
LIABILITY FOR ANY PERSONAL INJURY OR PROPERTY DAMAGE, OR ANY SPECIAL INCIDENTAL, CONTINGENT OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGE OF ANY KIND RESULTING FROM A FIRE. THE EXCLUSIVE REMEDY FOR BREACH OF THE LIMITED WARRANTY
CONTAINED HEREIN IS THE REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT OF THE DEFECTIVE PRODUCT AT DICON GLOBAL
INC.’S OPTION. IN NO CASE SHALL DICON GLOBAL INC.’S LIABILITY
UNDER ANY OTHER REMEDY PRESCRIBED BY LAW EXCEED THE PURCHASE PRICE. YOUR SMOKE ALARM IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR PROPERTY, DISABILITY, LIFE OR OTHER INSURANCE OF ANY KIND. APPROPRIATE COVERAGE IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY. CONSULT YOUR INSURANCE AGENT.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may also have other rights which vary from province to province.
Units may be returned to point of purchase according to retailers exchange / return policy. Or call
shipping instructions and a returned goods authorization number “RGA” number, to return to Dicon Global Inc.
Returned goods must be shipped prepaid. A cheque for $5.00 is also required for return postage. Please mark the “RGA” number on the exterior of your package. Date code located on back of smoke alarm.
Dicon Global Inc.20 Steelcase Road West, Unit 3Markham, Ontario,Canada L3R 1B2
email: info@diconglobal.com10. AMERICAN SENSORS PRODUCTSAMERICAN SENSORS SMOKE ALARMS
American Sensors offers a complete line of smoke alarms. Select from this group of quality products to ensure your home is fully protected in case of fire.
Model | Description | Power Source | Smoke Alarm | |
Technology | ||||
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SA310 | Basic Model | 9V Battery | Ionization | |
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SA320 | General Purpose Model | 9V Battery | Ionization | |
with | ||||
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SA358 | Hall and Stairways Model | Ionization | ||
with Emergency Light | ||||
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SA500 | Extended Life | Extended Life |
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Battery with | Ionization | |||
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| 3 Year Warranty |
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SA900 | Long Life Multi- | Long Life Lithium | Ionization | |
Location with | battery with 10 | |||
| year warranty |
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SA360 | Professional Hardwire | 120 Volt AC | Ionization | |
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| Professional Hardwire | 120 Volt AC with |
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SA379 | with Battery | 9 Volt | Ionization | |
| and | Battery |
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| Model |
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AMERICAN SENSORS
CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS
American Sensors also offers a complete line of Carbon Monoxide Alarms including :
CO800 -
CO810 - 120 Volt AC Hardwire Carbon Monoxide Alarm
CO900 -
CO910 -
CO920 -
CO1100 - Battery Powered Carbon Monoxide Alarm for Table Top, Travel or Wall Mount
IONIZATION
SMOKE ALARM
with Battery Back-Up
MODEL
SA379
READ CAREFULLY AND SAVE.This manual contains important information. 
A copy of this manual must be left with the end user.
