Part Six – Frequently Asked Questions

Q.How many alarms do I need in my house? How much square footage will one CO alarm cover?

A.We recommend you place alarms near the sleeping area(s). If you have a multi-level home, you should place an alarm on each level of the home. A good rule of thumb for the number and place- ment of CO alarms for your particular home is to place CO alarms near smoke alarms that have been installed to meet current building code requirements.

Generally, one CO alarm can be adequate for 1,200 to 1,500 square feet of living space. The most important determination for the num- ber of alarms needed is whether an alarm can be heard in all sleep- ing areas.

Q. Can you explain what “time-weighted alarm” means?

A. Because carbon monoxide is a cumulative poison, two factors determine how the body is affected by CO: the level of exposure and the length of exposure. For example, being continuously exposed to low levels of carbon monoxide for many hours can be as dangerous as being exposed to higher levels of CO for a short period of time.

The microchip inside your Nighthawk CO alarm monitors the air for the presence of carbon monoxide and computes the levels and length of exposure, alarming when you should be concerned about CO exposure.

For more information about the alarm, see page 5-2.

Q. Do I have to press the test button to get a CO reading?

A. No. Your Nighthawk CO alarm continuously monitors the air for carbon monoxide. An updated reading is shown on the digital dis- play every 15 seconds. If there is no CO present, the digital display will show a zero. The CO alarm will alert you to the presence of CO automatically. To test the internal components and circuitry of your CO alarm, press the Test/Reset button. For complete instructions on testing your CO alarm, see pages 1-10,11.

Q.What happens if the power goes out?

A. If the power goes out, your CO alarm will sound a fading alarm to alert you that power has been disconnected. When the power is restored, the alarm will automatically reset and will sound a brief alarm to indicate it is receiving power.

In the event of a power outage, it is important to remember never to use alternative sources of heat indoors such as charcoal, a gas oven or unvented space heaters. These heat sources can cause extremely dangerous amounts of carbon monoxide.

Part Six – Frequently Asked Questions

Q.How do I get the CO alarm to show something besides “0.” OR, How can I determine if the sensor is operating correctly?

A.Please refer to “Testing Sensor Response” on page 1-10,11 for complete instructions on how to test your CO alarm’s electronics and sensor functions.

Q.You warranty the alarm for five years. How will I know when it doesn’t work anymore and I need to buy a new one?

A.In any event of malfunction, your CO alarm should alert you with malfunction signals. These signals are described in detail on page 1-12.

Q.What do the numbers mean on the digital display when I press the “Test/Reset” button?

A.The numbers you see when you press the Test/Reset button are NOT a CO reading. This is a simulated reading the alarm displays as it tests its electronics. The numbers displayed when the Test/Reset button is pushed should be between 100 to 350.

Q.I called in someone to inspect my home for CO after my unit alarmed, and he couldn’t find anything wrong. Why? Does that mean this CO alarm “false alarmed”?

A.No. Please read the information explaining why a CO problem can be difficult to diagnose on page 4-4. Also, please read the information on page 1-12 to make sure you experienced an alarm and not a mal- function alert.

Q.I tried to test the CO alarm (see below) and it still reads “0.” Why?

by running the car in the garage

by holding it to the tailpipe of the car

by putting it next to the furnace vent

A.DO NOT try to test your alarm by doing any of the above! Testing the alarm using any of the methods listed above usually does not yield satisfactory results and could in fact be dangerous. To accurately test the CO alarm, please follow the guidelines given on pages 1-10,11.

Never operate a vehicle in a closed garage, as high levels of CO can be built up in a short time. With an attached garage, dangerous CO levels develop inside the home as well as within the garage.

Attempting to test the sensor function by holding the CO alarm next to a tailpipe or furnace vent may not cause a reading on the display because today’s vehicles emit very little CO once the engine reaches operating temperature. Likewise, many of today’s high efficiency fur- naces emit very low levels of CO.

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Nighthawk KN-COP-C, KN-COP-DP warranty Part Six Frequently Asked Questions, Can you explain what time-weighted alarm means?

KN-COP-HW, KN-COP-DP, KN-COP-C specifications

The Nighthawk KN-COP series, which includes the KN-COP-HW, KN-COP-DP, and KN-COP-C models, represents a significant advancement in the realm of smoke and carbon monoxide detection technology. Designed with user safety and convenience in mind, these models integrate innovative features to ensure reliable performance in residential and commercial spaces.

One of the standout characteristics of the KN-COP series is their dual-sensor technology. This feature enhances detection capabilities by incorporating both photoelectric and ionization sensors. The photoelectric sensor is particularly effective in detecting smoldering fires, while the ionization sensor quickly identifies flaming fires. This combination allows the devices to respond accurately to a variety of fire scenarios, thereby increasing overall safety.

The KN-COP-HW model also boasts a sleek, modern design that fits seamlessly into any decor while being functional. It features a voice alarm system that clearly announces the type of danger detected, whether it's smoke or carbon monoxide, ensuring that users can react appropriately without confusion. Additionally, an LCD display provides real-time updates about CO levels, temperature, and battery status.

Another notable feature across the KN-COP lineup is the ease of installation and maintenance. Each unit is equipped with a battery backup, ensuring continuous operation even during power outages. The user-friendly design includes a simple test/silence button, making periodic checks and silencing false alarms hassle-free.

The KN-COP-DP variant elevates safety with advanced connectivity options. This model can be interconnected wirelessly with other Nighthawk units, allowing for synchronized alerts throughout larger spaces. This interconnected network provides comprehensive coverage, ensuring that everyone within the building is alerted in case of a potential emergency.

For users looking for a compact solution, the KN-COP-C model is engineered for optimal performance within smaller spaces. It retains the essential features of its counterparts but in a form factor that is easier to integrate into compact living environments.

Overall, the Nighthawk KN-COP series exemplifies a commitment to quality, safety, and innovative technology. Whether it's the homeowner seeking peace of mind or a business aiming to protect its assets, these detectors serve as a formidable first line of defense against the dual threats of smoke and carbon monoxide, ensuring that safety always comes first.