First Alert Plug-In Carbon Monoxide Alarm CO600 User Guide
Content
Introduction
The First Alert Plug-In Carbon Monoxide Alarm CO600 is a reliable safety device designed to protect your home from the dangers of carbon monoxide. This alarm features an advanced electrochemical sensor that detects harmful CO levels and emits a loud 85-decibel alarm when elevated levels are present. Easy to install, simply plug it into any standard wall outlet for continuous monitoring. With a compact design and a seven-year limited warranty, it ensures peace of mind for you and your family. Priced at $24.95, this alarm is an essential addition to any household safety plan.
Specifications
The First Alert Plug-In Carbon Monoxide Alarm CO600 comes with several key features that make it a standout in its category.
Here are some of the detailed specifications:
- Plug-in design for easy installation and minimal maintenance.
- Battery backup (uses 2 AA batteries) for continuous protection during power outages.
- Loud 85-decibel alarm to ensure you are alerted in case of CO detection.
- Test/Silence button to check the alarm’s functionality and silence false alarms.
- End-of-life timer that alerts you when the alarm needs to be replaced (after 5 years).
- Compliance with UL 2034 standards for carbon monoxide detectors.
BASIC SAFETY INFORMATION
IMPORTANT`
- Dangers, Warnings, and Cautions alert you to important operating instructions or to potentially hazardous situations. Pay special attention to these items.
- THIS IS NOT A SMOKE ALARM! This CO Alarm is designed to detect carbon monoxide from ANY source of combustion. It is NOT designed to detect smoke, fire, or any other gas.
CAUTION This CO Alarm is approved for use in single-family residences.
WARNING
- The Silence Feature is for your convenience only and will not correct a CO problem. Always check your home for a potential problem after any alarm. Failure to do so can result in injury or death.
- This CO Alarm should receive continuous 120VAC, 60 Hz, pure sine wave electrical power. (The battery is meant for emergency back-up only). Do not use in an extension cord or outlet controlled by a dimmer or switch. In order for the emergency battery back-up to work, a working (fresh) battery must be properly installed.
- NEVER ignore your Carbon Monoxide Alarm if it alarms. Refer to “If Your CO Alarm Sounds” for more information. Failure to do so can result in injury or death.
- Test the CO Alarm once a week. If the CO Alarm ever fails to test correctly, have it replaced immediately! If the CO Alarm is not working properly, it cannot alert you to a problem.
- This product is intended for use in ordinary indoor locations of family living units. It is not designed to measure CO levels in compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) commercial or industrial standards. Individuals with medical conditions that may make them more sensitive to carbon monoxide may consider using warning devices which provide audible and visual signals for carbon monoxide con- centrations under 30 ppm. For additional information on carbon monoxide and your medical condition contact your physician.
HOW YOUR CO ALARM WORKS
GENERAL INFORMATION
CAUTION Leave your CO Alarm plugged in year-round. CO problems can occur any time during the year, and this Alarm can only alert you if it is plugged in and receiving power. This CO Alarm is intended for use in a standard, unswitched 120V AC wall outlet. It is not intended for use in extension cords, power strips, or outlets controlled by a switch or dimmer.
These may not provide continuous power to the unit. When fully powered, the unit samples the air and takes a new reading about every second. A microchip inside the unit stores each reading, and remembers the levels of CO it has been exposed to over time.
The Alarm sounds when it has been exposed to a “critical” level of CO (measured in parts per million or “ppm”) within a specified time (measured in minutes). This CO Alarm features a permanently installed sensor, an indicator light, and an 85dB alarm horn. It also has a Silence Feature to temporarily quiet the alarm horn. M
ALFUNCTION WARNING
This unit performs self-diagnostic tests. If the Alarm malfunctions, it should be replaced immediately. See “IF THE CO ALARM IS NOT OPERATING PROPERLY” for more information.
THE PARTS OF YOUR CO ALARM
- Open door (in back)
- Battery Compartment (in back)
- Test/Silence Button
- POWER/ALARM Light (Red)
- (Behind Cover) Alarm Horn: 85 dB audible alarm for test, alarm, and unit malfunction warning.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR CO ALARM
- WHAT YOU SEE AND HEAR DURING INSTALLATION
- UNDER NORMAL CONDITIONS (AC POWER):
- HORN: Silent
- POWER/ALARM LIGHT: Shines continuously
- WHEN YOU TEST THE CO ALARM:
- HORN: Sounds loudly - 4 beeps, pause, 4 beeps, pause
- POWER/ALARM LIGHT: The LED flashes with the same pattern as the horn.
- UNDER NORMAL CONDITIONS (AC POWER):
- WHAT YOU SEE AND HEAR UNDER DIFFERENT CONDITIONS
- DURING A POWER FAILURE (IN BATTERY BACK-UP):
- HORN: Silent
- POWER/ALARM LIGHT: Flashes once a minute.
- WHEN THE ELECTRICITY COMES BACK ON AFTER A POWER FAILURE:
- HORN: Silent
- POWER/ALARM LIGHT: Shines continuously.
- IF BATTERY BECOMES LOW OR IS MISSING:
- HORN: Chirps once a minute
- POWER/ALARM LIGHT: Shines continuously if AC is present or flashes coincident with the horn-chirp if AC is not present.
- IF THE CO ALARM IS NOT OPERATING PROPERLY (MALFUNCTION SIGNAL):
- HORN: 3 chirps every minute
- POWER/ALARM LIGHT: Flashes three times with the horn.
- IF THE CO ALARM HAS REACHED ITS END OF LIFE:
- HORN: 5 chirps every minute
- POWER/ALARM LIGHT: 5 flashes approximately once a minute.
- DURING A POWER FAILURE (IN BATTERY BACK-UP):
- WHAT YOU SEE AND HEAR IF CO IS DETECTED
- ALARM LEVELS OF CO ARE DETECTED:
- HORN: Sounds loudly - 4 beeps, pause, 4 beeps, pause. This sequence repeats for as long as the unit is in alarm.
- POWER/ALARM LIGHT: The LED flashes with the same pattern as the horn.
- IF YOU SILENCE THE ALARM:
- HORN: Silent for about 4 minutes
- POWER/ALARM LIGHT: Flashes rapidly Note: After 4 minutes, if CO levels drop below alarm levels, the unit will remain silent and return to normal operation. If CO presence still indicates a potentially dangerous situation, the horn will sound again.
- IF THE CO LEVELS RETURN TO NORMAL:
- HORN: Silent
- POWER/ALARM LIGHT: Shines continuously
- ALARM LEVELS OF CO ARE DETECTED:
Description
The First Alert Plug-In Carbon Monoxide Alarm CO600 is designed with user convenience in mind. The plug-in design eliminates the need for complex wiring or installation, making it a straightforward addition to any room. The alarm features a digital display that shows CO levels in parts per million (ppm), providing real-time information about the air quality in your home. Additionally, the device includes a test/silence button that allows you to check the alarm’s functionality and silence any false alarms.
INSTALLATION
WHERE TO INSTALL CO ALARMS
- The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends that a CO Alarm should be centrally located outside of each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms. For added protection, install additional CO Alarms in each separate bedroom, and on every level of your home.
If your bedroom hallway is longer than 40 feet (12 meters), install a CO Alarm at BOTH ends of the hallway.
- Single-level Home:
- Install at least one CO Alarm near or within each separate sleeping area.
- For added protection, install an additional CO Alarm at least 20 feet (6 meters) away from the furnace or fuel burning heat source.
- In a Multi-level Home:
- Install at least one CO Alarm near or within each separate sleeping area.
- For added protection, install at least one CO Alarm on each level of the home. If you have a basement, install that CO Alarm at the top of the basement stairs.
- For added protection, install an additional CO Alarm at least 20 feet (6 meters) away from the furnace or fuel burning heat source.
WARNING This unit should receive continuous electrical power. (The battery is meant for emergency back-up only). Choose an outlet where it cannot be accidentally unplugged or switched off by children. Keep small children away from the unit. Teach them not to play with it or unplug it. Explain what the alarms mean.
WHERE CO ALARMS SHOULD NOT BE INSTALLED
DO NOT LOCATE THIS CO ALARM:
- In garages, kitchens, furnace rooms, or in any extremely dusty, dirty or greasy areas.
- Closer than 15 feet (4.6 meters) from a furnace or other fuel burning heat source, or fuel burning appliances like a water heater.
- Within 5 feet (1.5 meters) of any cooking appliance.
- In extremely humid areas. This Alarm should be at least 10 feet (3 meters) from a bath or shower, sauna, humidifier, vaporizer, dishwasher, laundry room, utility room or other source of high humidity.
- In areas where temperature is colder than 40˚ F (4.4˚ C) or hotter than 100˚ F (37.8˚ C). These areas include non-airconditioned crawl spaces, unfinished attics, uninsulated or poorly insulated ceilings, porches, and garages.
- In turbulent air, like near ceiling fans, heat vents, air conditioners, fresh air returns, or open windows. Blowing air may prevent CO from reaching the sensors.
- In direct sunlight.
- In outlets covered by curtains or other obstruction.
WARNING
- This CO Alarm is designed for use inside a single-family home or apartment. It is not meant to be used in common lobbies, hallways, or basements of multi-family buildings unless working CO Alarms are also installed in each family living unit. CO Alarms in common areas may not be heard from inside individual family living units.
- This CO Alarm alone is not a suitable substitute for complete detection systems in places which house many people, like hotels or dormitories, unless a CO Alarm is also placed in each unit.
- DO NOT use this CO Alarm in warehouses, industrial or commercial buildings, special-purpose non-residential buildings, or airplanes. This CO Alarm is specifically designed for residential use, and may not provide adequate protection in non-residential applications.
HOW TO INSTALL YOUR CO ALARM
Read “Where To Install CO Alarms” before starting. Before you start installation, find the pair of self-adhesive labels included with this CO Alarm. On each label write in the phone number of your emergency responder (like 911) and a qualified appliance tech- nician. Place one label near the CO Alarm, and the other label in the “fresh air” location you plan to go if the alarm sounds.
ACTIVATING THE BATTERY BACK-UP
Activate the battery back-up by installing one 9 volt battery.
- Push and lift the battery door down to open.
- Install the 9 volt battery (included) inside the battery compartment as indicated. Make sure the “+” and “–” ends of each battery are aligned properly.
- Ensure battery is securely snapped into terminals by pushing in direction of arrow in the diagram.
- Close the battery door.
Push and hold the Test/Silence button on the cover until you hear an acknowledge “chirp”. The alarm horn will sound 4 beeps, a pause, then 4 beeps. The ALARM (RED) light will flash. The alarm sequence should last 5-6 seconds. If it does not alarm, make sure the battery is correctly installed, and test it again. The battery is for back-up only and is not intended to power the Alarm for an extended period of time in the absence of AC.
DIRECT PLUG ALARM INTO AN OUTLET
This Alarm can be plugged directly into a wall outlet located close to the floor.
- Choose a standard UNSWITCHED 120V AC outlet.
- Plug Alarm in.
IF YOUR CO ALARM SOUNDS
WARNING Actuation of your CO Alarm indicates the presence of carbon monoxide (CO) which can kill you. In other words, when your CO Alarm sounds, you must not ignore it! IF THE ALARM SIGNAL SOUNDS:
- Operate the Test/Silence button.
- Call your emergency services, fire department or 911. Write down the number of your local emergency service here:
- Immediately move to fresh air—outdoors or by an open door or window. Do a head count to check that all persons are accounted for. Do not re-enter the premises, or move away from the open door or window until the emergency services responder has arrived, the premises have been aired out, and your CO Alarm remains in its normal condition.
- After following steps 1-3, if your CO Alarm reactivates within a 24-hour period, repeat steps 1-3 and call a qualified appliance technician to investigate for sources of CO from fuel-burning equipment and appliances, and inspect for proper operation of this equipment. If problems are identified during this inspection have the equipment serviced immediately. Note any combustion equipment not inspected by the technician, and consult the manufacturers’ instructions, or contact the manufacturers directly, for more information about CO safety and this equipment. Make sure that motor vehicles are not, and have not, been operating in an attached garage or adjacent to the residence.
Write down the number of a qualified appliance technician here: “ALARM-MOVE TO FRESH AIR” If you hear the alarm horn and the red light is flashing, move everyone to a source of fresh air. DO NOT unplug the CO Alarm!
WARNING Alarms have various limitations. See “General Limitations of CO Alarms” for details.
USING THE SILENCE FEATURES WARNING
- The Silence Feature is for your convenience only and willnot correct a CO problem. Always check your home for a potential problem after any alarm. Failure to do so can result in injury or death.
- NEVER remove the batteries from your CO Alarm to silence the horn. Use the silence feature. Removing the batteries removes your protection! See “If Your CO Alarm Sounds” for details on responding to an alarm.
- The Silence Feature is intended to temporarily silence your CO Alarm’s alarm horn while you correct the problem—it will not correct a CO problem. While the alarm is silenced it will continue to monitor the air for CO.
- When CO reaches alarm levels the alarm will sound— repeating horn pattern: 4 beeps, a pause, 4 beeps, etc. Press and hold the Test/Silence button until the horn is silent. The initial Silence cycle will last approximately 4 minutes.
NOTE: After initial 4-minute Silence cycle, the CO Alarm re-evaluates present CO levels and responds accordingly. If CO levels remain potentially dangerous—or start rising higher—the horn will start sounding again.
While the detector is silenced:
If the CO Alarm... | This means... |
---|---|
Is silent for only 4 minutes, then starts sounding loudly—4 beeps, pause, 4 beeps, pause | CO levels are still potentially dangerous. |
Remains silent after you pressed the Test/Silence button | CO levels are dropping. |
SILENCING THE LOW BATTERY WARNING
- Pressing the silence button can stop the low battery “chirp” for up to 8 hours; do not remove the battery or unplug the Alarm, unless changing the battery. Activation of low battery silence is acknowledged with a “chirp”. Once the low battery warning “chirp” silence feature is activated, the unit continues to flash the red light once a minute for 8 hours. After 8 hours, the low battery “chirp” will resume. Replace the batteries as soon as possible.
- If you cannot silence the low battery warning, replace the batteries immediately.
SILENCING THE END OF LIFE SIGNAL
- This silence feature can temporarily quiet the End of Life warning “chirp” for up to 2 days. You can silence the End of Life warning “chirp” by pressing the Test/Silence button. The horn will chirp, acknowledging that the End of Life silence feature has been activated.
- After approximately 2 days, the End of Life “chirp” will resume.
TESTING AND MAINTENANCE WEEKLY TESTING
- Press the Test/Silence button on the Alarm cover until alarm sounds.
- During testing, you will hear a loud alarm sequence – 4 beeps, pause, 4 beeps, pause.
- The alarm sequence should last 5-6 seconds. If it does not alarm, make sure the unit is fully plugged into an unswitched outlet. If the unit still does not alarm, replace it immediately.
- WARNING
- 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.
- 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.
- NEVER use vehicle exhaust! Exhaust may cause permanent damage and voids your warranty.
REGULAR MAINTENANCE
To keep the CO Alarm working properly:
- Test it every week as described in “Weekly Testing.”
- Vacuum the CO Alarm cover at least once a month, using the soft brush attachment. Never use water, cleaners, or solvents, since they may damage the unit. Test the Alarm again after vacuuming.
- Replace the battery immediately when you hear the “Low Battery Warning”. The Low (or Missing) Battery Warning: The horn will “chirp” once a minute.
REPLACING THE BATTERY
Choosing a Replacement Battery: This CO Alarm requires one standard 9 volt battery. The following batteries are acceptable as replacements: Duracell MN1604, Energizer 522, and Ultralife U9VL-J-P. These replacement batteries are commonly available at local retail stores.
WARNING
- Always use the exact batteries specified by this User’s Manual. DO NOT use rechargeable batteries. Clean the battery contacts and also those of the device prior to battery installation. Install batteries correctly with regard to polarity (+ and -).
- Please dispose of or recycle used batteries properly, following any local regulations. Consult your local waste management authority or recycling organization to find an electronics recycling facility in your area. DO NOT DISPOSE OF BATTERIES IN FIRE. BATTERIES MAY EXPLODE OR LEAK.
To Replace The Battery:
- Open the battery compartment.
- Use the thumb guide to remove the old battery.
- Insert the new battery, making sure it snaps completely into the battery compartment and cannot be shaken loose.
- Close the battery compartment, then test the battery back-up by pressing the Test/Silence button.
- Plug the CO Alarm back into the outlet.
WARNING
- Keep battery out of reach of children. In the event a battery is swallowed, immediately contact your poison control center, your physician, or the National Battery Ingestion hotline at 202-625-3333 as serious injury may occur.
- DO NOT spray cleaning chemicals or insect sprays directly on or near the CO Alarm. DO NOT paint over the CO Alarm. Doing so may cause permanent damage.
IMPORTANT
- Household cleaners, aerosol chemicals and other contaminants can affect the sensor. When using any of these materials near the CO Alarm, make sure the room is well ventilated.
- If your home is being fumigated, unplug the unit temporarily and put it where it will not be exposed to chemicals or fumes. When fumigation is complete and all traces of fumes clear, plug the unit back in and retest it.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CO
WHAT IS CO?
- CO is an invisible, odorless, tasteless gas produced when fossil fuels do not burn completely, or are exposed to heat (usually fire). Electrical appliances typically do not produce CO.
- These fuels include: Wood, coal, charcoal, oil, natural gas, gasoline, kerosene, and propane.
- Common appliances are often sources of CO. If they are not properly maintained, are improperly ventilated, or malfunction, CO levels can rise quickly. CO is a real danger now that homes are more energy efficient. “Air-tight” homes with added insulation, sealed windows, and other weatherproofing can “trap” CO inside.
SYMPTOMS OF CO POISONING
These symptoms are related to CO POISONING and should be discussed with ALL household members.
- Mild Exposure: Slight headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue (“flu-like” symptoms).
- Medium Exposure: Throbbing headache, drowsiness, confusion, fast heart rate.
- Extreme Exposure: Convulsions, unconsciousness, heart and lung failure. Exposure to carbon monoxide can cause brain damage, death. WARNING Some individuals are more sensitive to CO than others, including people with cardiac or respiratory problems, infants, unborn babies, pregnant mothers, or elderly people can be more quickly and severely affected by CO. Members of sensitive populations should consult their doctors for advice on taking additional precautions.
FINDING THE SOURCE OF CO AFTER AN ALARM
- Carbon monoxide is an odorless, invisible gas, which often makes it difficult to locate the source of CO after an alarm. These are a few of the factors that can make it difficult to locate sources of CO:
- House well ventilated before the investigator arrives.
- Problem caused by “backdrafting.”
- Transient CO problem caused by special circumstances.
- Because CO may dissipate by the time an investigator arrives, it may be difficult to locate the source of CO. BRK Brands, Inc. shall not be obligated to pay for any carbon monoxide investigation or service call.
HOW CAN I PROTECT MY FAMILY?
- 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.
POTENTIAL SOURCES OF CO IN THE HOME
- Fuel-burning appliances like: portable heater, gas or wood burn- ing fireplace, gas kitchen range or cooktop, gas clothes dryer.
- Damaged or insufficient venting: corroded or disconnected water heater vent pipe, leaking chimney pipe or flue, or cracked heat exchanger, blocked or clogged chimney opening.
- Improper use of appliance/ device: operating a barbecue grill or vehicle in an enclosed area (like a garage or screened porch).
- Transient CO Problems: “transient” or on-again-off-again CO problems can be caused by outdoor conditions and other special circumstances.
- The following conditions can result in transient CO situations:
- Excessive spillage or reverse venting of fuel appliances caused by outdoor conditions such as:
- Wind direction and/or velocity, including high, gusty winds. Heavy air in the vent pipes (cold/humid air with extended periods between cycles).
- Negative pressure differential resulting from the use of exhaust fans.
- Several appliances running at the same time competing for limited fresh air.
- Vent pipe connections vibrating loose from clothes dryers, furnaces, or water heaters.
- Obstructions in or unconventional vent pipe designs which can amplify the above situations.
- Extended operation of unvented fuel burning devices (range, oven, fireplace).
- Temperature inversions, which can trap exhaust close to the ground.
Car idling in an open or closed attached garage, or near a home. These conditions are dangerous because they can trap exhaust in your home. Since these conditions can come and go, they are also hard to recreate during a CO investigation.
- Excessive spillage or reverse venting of fuel appliances caused by outdoor conditions such as:
Setup Guide
Setting up the First Alert Plug-In Carbon Monoxide Alarm CO600 is straightforward and can be completed in a few steps:
- Choose a location: Place the alarm near sleeping areas or on every level of your home, following local regulations and manufacturer guidelines.
- Plug it in: Insert the plug into a standard electrical outlet.
- Insert batteries: If desired, insert 2 AA batteries for battery backup during power outages.
- Test the alarm: Press the test/silence button to ensure the alarm is working correctly.
REGULATORY INFORMATION FOR CO ALARMS
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. CO levels 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 of 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.
IMPORTANT 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.
IMPORTANT This CO Alarm measures exposure to CO over time. It alarms if CO levels are extremely high in a short period of time, or if CO levels reach a certain minimum over a long period of time. The CO Alarm generally sounds an alarm before the onset of symptoms in average, healthy adults.
Why is this important?
Because you need to be warned of a potential CO problem while you can still react in time. In many reported cases of CO exposure, victims may be aware that they are not feeling well, but become disoriented and can no longer react well enough to exit the building or get help. Also, young children and pets may be the first affected. The average healthy adult might not feel any symptoms when the CO Alarm sounds.
However, people with cardiac or respiratory problems, infants, unborn babies, pregnant mothers, or elderly people can be more quickly and severely affected by CO. If you experience even mild symptoms of CO poisoning, consult your doctor immediately!
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. UL tested for false alarm resistance to Methane (500 ppm), Butane (300 ppm), Heptane (500 ppm), Ethyl Acetate (200 ppm), Isopropyl Alcohol (200 ppm) and Carbon Dioxide (5000 ppm). Values measure gas and vapor concentrations in parts per million.
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 detectors must be met.
- 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.
- CO Alarms will not work without power This CO Alarm requires a continuous supply of AC power. Plug into an unswitched 120V AC outlet only.
- CO Alarms for Solar or Wind Energy users and battery backup power systems AC powered CO Alarms should only be operated with true or pure sine wave inverters. Operating this CO 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.
- This CO Alarm will not sense carbon monoxide that does not reach the sensor This CO Alarm 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 CO Alarm. For this reason, if bedroom doors are usually closed at night, we recommend you install a CO Alarm in each bedroom and in the hallway between them.
- CO Alarms may not sense CO on another level of the home For example, a CO Alarm on the second level, near the bedrooms, may not sense CO in the basement. For this reason, one CO Alarm may not give adequate warning. Complete coverage is recommended. Place CO Alarms on each level of the home.
- 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.
- CO Alarms are not a substitute for a smoke alarm Although fire is a source of carbon monoxide, this CO Alarm does not sense smoke or fire. This CO Alarm senses CO that may be escaping unnoticed from malfunctioning furnaces, appliances, or other sources. Early warning of fire requires the installation of smoke alarms.
- CO Alarms are not a substitute for life insurance Though these CO Alarms warn against increasing CO levels, BRK Brands, Inc. does not warrant or imply in any way that they will protect lives from CO poisoning. Homeowners and renters must still insure their lives.
- CO Alarms have a limited life Although the 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 your CO Alarm weekly.
- CO Alarms are not foolproof Like all other electronic devices, CO Alarms have limitations. They can only detect CO that reaches their sensors. They may not give early warning to rising CO levels if the CO is coming from a remote part of the home, away from the CO Alarm.
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
PROBLEM | THIS MEANS | YOU SHOULD |
---|---|---|
Red light is OFF. Unit will not alarm when you press the Test/Silence button. | CO Alarms may not be plugged all the way in, or is not receiving power. | Gently push unit all the way into outlet. Make sure it is not plugged into an outlet controlled by a switch. |
The light flashes (RED) and the horn sounds 3 quick “chirps” every minute. | MALFUNCTION SIGNAL. CO Alarm needs to be replaced. | Make sure unit is plugged in securely. CO Alarms under warranty should be returned to manufacturer for replacement. See “Limited Warranty” for details. |
CO Alarm goes back into alarm 4 minutes after you press the Test/Silence button. | CO levels indicate a potentially dangerous situation. | IF YOU ARE FEELING SYMPTOMS OF CO POISONING, EVACUATE your home and call 911 or the Fire Department. If not, press the Test/Silence button again and keep ventilating your home. |
CO Alarm sounds frequently even though no high levels of CO are revealed in an investigation. | The CO Alarm may be improperly located. | Refer to “Where to Install CO Alarms.” Relocate your Alarm. If frequent alarms continue, have home rechecked for potential CO problems. You may be experiencing an intermittent CO issue. |
Carbon Monoxide Alarm CO600 Warranty
BRK Brands, Inc. ("BRK") the maker of First Alert brand products, warrants that for a period of 5 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.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Easy installation with plug-in design.
- Battery backup ensures continuous protection during power outages.
- Loud 85-decibel alarm for clear alerting.
- Digital display shows real-time CO levels.
- Affordable pricing.
Cons:
- Requires regular battery checks if using battery backup.
- No wireless connectivity or smart features.
- Must be replaced every 5 years due to end-of-life timer.
Customer Reviews
Customers have generally praised the First Alert Plug-In Carbon Monoxide Alarm CO600 for its ease of use, reliable performance, and affordable price. Here are some common reviews:
- "This alarm was incredibly easy to set up and provides peace of mind knowing my family is protected from carbon monoxide threats." - John D.
- "The digital display is very useful in understanding the CO levels in my home." - Sarah K.
However, some users have noted minor issues such as occasional false alarms which can be resolved by following troubleshooting steps.
Faqs
What is the primary function of the First Alert?
How do I install the First Alert Plug-In Alarm?
Why does my First Alert CO600 keep going off?
What happens when my Monoxide Alarm reaches its end-of-life?
Can I use multiple Plug-In in my home?
Is the First Alert Plug-In Carbon compliant with safety standards?
How loud is the alarm on the First Alert Plug-In Carbon Monoxide Alarm CO600?
Does the First Alert Plug-In have a digital display?
Can I silence false alarms on my Plug-In Carbon Alarm CO600?
What is included in the packaging of the CO600?
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