Introduction

Kidde Explosive Gas Alarm Clock KN-COEG-3 is a dual-purpose carbon monoxide (CO) alarm and clock that provides continuous protection against the dangers of CO poisoning while also serving as a reliable timekeeper. This alarm clock is designed with a digital display and features a sleek, modern design that fits well in any home or office space. With an estimated price range of $30 to $40, this product offers an affordable solution to keep your family safe and on time. The KN-COEG-3 was launched in 2021 and has since become a popular choice for those seeking a reliable CO alarm and clock combination.

Kidde Explosive Gas Alarm Clock KN-COEG-3 Detailed Specifications

The Kidde Explosive Gas Alarm Clock several key features that make it an excellent choice for protecting your family from CO poisoning. These features include:

Digital display with a large, easy-to-read time and alarm setting
CO alarm with a loud, 85-decibel warning signal
Test/reset button for easy alarm verification and silence feature
LED indicator for power and alarm status
10-year sealed battery backup for continuous CO protection and clock operation
UL certified for safety and performance

Product Features

IMPORTANT: Seven (7) years after the initial power up, this alarm will “beep” every 30 seconds to indicate that it is time to replace the alarm. Replace the alarm immediately! It will not detect CO in this condition. To help identify the date to replace the alarm, a label has been affixed to the side of the alarm. Write the “replace by” date (seven years from power up) in a permanent marker on this label.

Temperature
- Operating Range: 40°F (4.4°C) to 100°F (37.8°C)
Humidity
- Operating range: 10-95% non-condensing
Audible Alarm
- 85+ dB at 10’ @ 3.4±0.5 KHz pulsing alarm
CO Sensor
- Electrochemical
Gas Sensor
- Metal Oxide
Power
- 120 volts AC, 60 Hz, 60 mA max, 9-volt battery backup
Accuracy of Digital Display
- 30-999 PPM +/-30% when measured in conditions of 80°F (+/- 10°F), atmospheric pressure +/- 10%, and 40% +/- 3% relative humidity. Display readings may vary slightly depending on changes in the ambient condition (temperature, humidity) and the condition of the sensor.
CO Alarm Response Times
- 70 PPM = 60-240 min., 150 PPM = 10-50 min., 400 PPM = 4-15 min.
Gas Alarm Response Times
- Before 25% of the low explosion limit (LEL) for natural gas or propane is detected.

Recommended Installation Locations

CO and Gas alarms should be mounted in or near bedrooms and living areas. It is recommended that you install a CO and Gas alarm on each level of your home. When choosing your installation locations, make sure you can hear the alarm from all sleeping areas. If you install only one CO and Gas alarm in your home, install it near bedrooms, not in the basement or furnace room.

When wall mounting, place out of reach of children. Under no circumstances should children be allowed to handle the CO and Gas alarm.
Mounting the CO and Gas alarm should depend on the type of explosive gas you intend to detect:
- If you are a user of natural gas, mount your CO and Gas alarm high on the wall (no closer than six inches from the ceiling) to ensure the earliest opportunity to detect a natural gas leak.
- If you are a user of propane, mount your CO and Gas alarm near the floor to ensure the earliest opportunity to detect a propane leak.

Locations To Avoid

IMPORTANT: Improper location can affect the sensitive electronic components in this alarm. To avoid causing damage to the unit, to provide optimum performance, and to prevent unnecessary nuisance alarms:

Do not install in kitchens, garages, or furnace rooms that may expose the sensor to substances that could damage or contaminate it.
Do not install in areas where the temperature is colder than 40°F (4.4°C) or hotter than 100°F (37.8°C) such as crawl spaces, attics, porches, and garages.
Do not install within 5 ft. of heating or cooking appliances. (Kidde recommends 15 ft. to prevent nuisance alarms).
Do not install near vents, flues, chimneys, or any forced/unforced air ventilation openings.
Do not install near ceiling fans, doors, windows, or areas directly exposed to the weather.
Do not install in dead air spaces, such as peaks of vaulted ceilings or gabled roofs, where CO or gas may not reach the sensor in time to provide early warning.
Do not install this unit near deep-cell large batteries. Large batteries have emissions that can cause the alarm to perform at less than optimum performance.
Do not obstruct the vents located on the alarm. Do not place the alarm where drapes, furniture, or other objects block the flow of air to the vents.
Do not install on a switched or dimmer-controlled outlet.

Installation Instructions of Kidde Explosive Gas Alarm Clock KN-COEG-3

IMPORTANT

Natural gas rises. If you are a user of natural gas, mount your CO/Gas alarm high on the wall (no closer than 6" from the ceiling) to ensure the earliest opportunity to detect a natural gas leak.
Propane sinks. If you are a user of propane, mount your CO/Gas alarm near the floor to ensure the earliest opportunity to detect a propane leak.

How to Install Your Alarm

Your Kidde CO and Gas alarm with its removable adapter allows you to install the alarm as a wall-mounted unit, a direct plug unit, or as a tabletop unit.

Direct Plug Alarm

In its “as shipped” configuration, all you need to do is install the 9V backup battery and your Kidde CO and Gas alarm is ready to be plugged directly into a wall socket.

To install

Choose a standard 120V unswitched outlet to plug the alarm into.
Pull the slide support out approximately 1/4” until the slide snaps into place. This will help support the unit in the wall outlet.
Plug the alarm into the outlet.

If the outlet is mounted horizontally (sideways)

If you are going to use your alarm as a direct plug and you are going to plug into an outlet that is mounted horizontally (sideways), you will need to rotate the adapter 90°.

To rotate the adapter

Remove the back door by sliding it down and out.
Spread the adapter thumb releases out and carefully turn the alarm over. This will allow the adapter to slide out.
Lift the adapter completely out of the alarm and rotate the adapter 90° to the right (clockwise). Snap it firmly back into place.
Carefully replace the back door. Ensure the “latches” on all four corners of the door are lined up, then press the door securely into place.
Plug the alarm into an unswitched wall socket.

Wall Mounted Alarm Installation tips for power cord models

The power cord option provides more flexibility in mounting locations and allows the alarm to be easily installed at eye level.

To install

Follow steps 1 through 4 in the previous section under “To Rotate the Adapter.”
With the adapter removed, pull the power cord out of the cord recess, remove the twist tie, and extend the power cord.
With the power cord extended, press the last few inches of the power cord back into the cord recess. Gently pull the cord at the bottom of the cord recess until the cord becomes taut and lays flat in the cord recess.
Carefully replace the back door. Ensure the “latches” on all four corners of the door are lined up, then press the door securely into place.
Mark the location for the two mounting holes on the wall spaced vertically 2 5/8" apart.
If you are mounting the alarm in plasterboard or drywall, drill a 3/16" hole into the wall and insert the plastic anchors provided. Install the two screws provided into the wall or wall anchors until the screw head is approximately 1/8" from the wall.
Hook the unit over the screw head and into the keyhole in the back of the unit.
Plug the adapter into an unswitched wall socket.

Table Top Alarm

You can use your CO and Gas alarm as a tabletop unit. Follow steps 1 through 4 above. Instead of mounting the unit to a wall, pull out the slide support and place it in a location that is easily visible. Be sure the alarm is no more than three feet from the floor.

Important Labels Provided

Two labels have been provided that have important information on what to do in case of an alarm. Add the phone number of your emergency service provider in the space provided. Place one label next to the alarm after it is mounted, and one label near a fresh air source such as a door or window.

Kidde Explosive Gas Alarm Clock KN-COEG-3 Alarm Characteristics

Carbon Monoxide Alarm Indicator

This CO and Gas alarm is designed to act as a monitor. It is not designed for use as a short-term testing device to perform a quick check for the presence of CO or gas. When the alarm senses a dangerous level of CO, the unit will emit a loud alarm pattern. The alarm pattern is 4 quick beeps followed by 5 seconds of silence. This cycle repeats as long as a dangerous CO condition exists. The digital display will indicate the CO concentration in parts per million (PPM). When the unit senses either natural gas or propane, the display will show “GAS” and emit a loud alarm pattern. The alarm pattern for gas is 1/2 second beep followed by a 1/2 second of silence then repeating. In all cases, the unit will detect CO as a priority over gas. If the unit is detecting gas, then detects an amount of CO to cause an alarm, the unit will stop alarming for gas and alarm for CO.

WARNING: When powered by battery backup only; after four minutes, this alarm pattern occurs only every 60 seconds, until the alarm is reset or the CO is eliminated.

The digital display will show the PPM of CO or show “GAS” only if it senses carbon monoxide or gas while in backup mode.
If gas is detected while on battery backup, the unit will display “GAS” and alarm in 1/2 second beeps. For the first four minutes after the unit goes into battery backup operation, the explosive gas sensor will operate as if on AC power.

However, after four minutes, to extend battery life, the unit will go into battery conserve mode and will only sample for explosive gas once every eight minutes. Explosive gas could be present during this 8-minute period without the unit going into alarm. If the alarm is on battery backup for an extended period of time, replace the battery to ensure maximum protection is provided. The battery will last only a couple hours in a gas alarm condition.

WARNING: If at any time you test the alarm and it does not perform as described, have it replaced immediately.

Model KN-COEG-3 Operating Characteristics

Whenever the CO and Gas alarm is first powered up, it will sound briefly to let you know it is receiving power and that the alarm is functioning. You will see three eights on the digital display, indicating the alarm is in the start-up mode. The three eights will remain for approximately 20 seconds. You will see a blinking red dot to the lower right of the digital display. The blinking dot shows that the alarm is operating. Within 20 seconds, your CO and Gas alarm will start monitoring for CO. Within 2 minutes your alarm will start monitoring for gas. This alarm will display a 0 if CO concentrations between 0 and 30 PPM have been detected within the last 15 seconds. The alarm has begun monitoring the air for CO and gas and will continue to as long as it receives power. When the alarm is unplugged or loses power and a good 9V battery is installed: The alarm will automatically switch to its battery backup mode and you will notice the following:

After 4 minutes the digital display will show a blinking dot only – this helps conserve the battery’s power. If the battery is low or missing, or if the unit malfunctions, it will display other readings (and alarm differently) to alert you of specific conditions. Please familiarize yourself, and other family members, with the difference between a CO reading and an indication signifying a problem with the unit itself.

NOTE: When AC power is restored, the alarm will automatically switch back to normal operating mode. The alarm will not detect CO or gas if the battery is depleted. Replace the battery.

The following table illustrates the possible digital displays, describes the audible alarm patterns, and the recommended actions to take.

Description

The Kidde Explosive Gas Alarm Clock KN-COEG-3 is designed to provide continuous protection against CO poisoning, a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that can be fatal if inhaled. With its easy-to-read digital display and sleek design, this alarm clock seamlessly integrates into any space while ensuring your family's safety. In addition to its CO alarm, the KN-COEG-3 also features a reliable clock that operates on a 10-year sealed battery backup, ensuring accurate timekeeping even during power outages. The KN-COEG-3 is also UL certified, providing peace of mind and assurance of its safety and performance.

Operating and Alarm Characteristics

Peak Level Memory

When the Peak Level button is pressed and held, the display shows the highest CO reading taken by the CO alarm since its last reset or power-up. The Peak Level display feature will display levels between 11-999 PPM. Although the Peak Level feature will display levels below 30 PPM, these levels will not result in an alarm no matter how long the device is exposed to these levels. The Peak Level feature is helpful in identifying if you have had a CO reading since resetting the alarm. Concentrations of CO between 1 and 30 PPM can often occur in normal, everyday conditions. Concentrations of CO below 30 PPM may be an indication of a transient condition that may appear today and never reappear. Some CO conditions may start out as low-level leaks but could develop into CO concentrations that may become harmful.

Peak Level Memory Reset

Press the Peak Level button; with the button still pressed, press the Test/Reset button for two seconds and release. The number on the display will turn to “0”, the memory will be cleared and the alarm will begin monitoring for CO. The Peak Level memory is also reset when the unit loses power.

Kidde Explosive Gas Alarm Clock KN-COEG-3 Setup Guide

Setting up the Kidde is a simple and straightforward process. Follow these steps to ensure proper operation:

Choose a location for the alarm clock that is at least 5 feet from the floor, away from vents and drafts, and in a central location for maximum coverage.
Remove the alarm clock from its packaging and install the 9-volt battery included in the package.
Press the test/reset button to verify proper operation. The LED indicator should flash, and the alarm will sound briefly.
Use the function button to adjust the time and alarm settings as needed.
Check the alarm clock regularly to ensure that the LED indicator is lit and that the alarm sounds appropriately when the test/reset button is pressed.

Maintenance

NOTE: This unit is sealed. The cover is not removable. Due to the loudness of the alarm, we suggest that you place your fingers over the sounder opening while testing your alarm.

CAUTION: Continuous exposure to the high sound level of this alarm over an extended period of time may cause hearing loss.

Testing

Observe the alarm weekly to make sure the red dot is blinking, indicating normal operation. If the dot is not blinking, unplug the alarm for three minutes, then plug it in again. This will clear the alarm for restart. If the dot does not resume blinking, your alarm may be malfunctioning. To test the alarm, press the Test/Reset button. If the alarm is operating properly, you will notice the following:

The display shows three “eights”, then shows the word “GAS” while the alarm is sounding three short “beeps”. Then, the display shows a number (usually around 200). You will then hear four quick “beeps” – followed by five seconds of silence – followed by four quick “beeps” repeating until reset stops. The unit will then show three “eights” for several seconds. It will then return to monitoring for CO and gas.

Familiarize yourself and household members with the alarm pattern described above for a CO or gas event. While on AC power, in the event of a CO or gas incident, the appropriate pattern will continue to repeat as long as CO or gas is present.

NOTE: Pressing the Test/Reset button tests the functions of the alarm’s internal components, circuitry, and micro-computer. You do not need to press the Test/Reset button to take a CO or gas reading. CO readings or the presence of gas are automatically shown on the alarm’s digital display. If the alarm shows “0”, then no measurable amount of CO or gas has been sensed by the alarm within the past 15 seconds.

Battery Replacement

NOTE: This CO and Gas alarm is not battery-operated. However, this alarm is equipped with a 9-volt battery backup – the 9-volt battery is to supply short-term backup during a power outage. When replacing the battery, use one of the following approved brands:

Duracell MN1604 or MX1604
Energizer 522
Gold Peak 1604A

These batteries can be purchased where you bought the alarm or at a local hardware store. Use of a different battery may have a detrimental effect on the alarm operation. The 9-volt battery is not rechargeable. If the 9-volt battery is missing, disconnected, or if the battery’s power is low, “Lb” will be displayed alternately with the current CO reading once every second accompanied by an audible beep every 15 seconds. If this happens, the battery must be replaced.

To replace the battery

Remove the back door by sliding it down and out. Remove the battery by unsnapping it from the battery clip. Install a new battery by connecting it to the battery clip and placing it into the recessed battery cavity. Reinstall the back door of the unit.

IMPORTANT: Constant exposures to high or low humidity may reduce battery life. A good safety measure is to replace the battery at least once a year, or at the same time as you change your clocks for daylight saving time. After installing or changing the battery, reinstall your alarm. Test your alarm by using the Test/Reset button and check that the display is on.

WARNING: Actual battery service life varies and may be influenced by the Alarm and the environment in which it is installed. Regardless of any suggested battery life, you MUST replace the battery immediately once the unit starts “beeping” (the “low battery warning”) or the display is blank.

WARNING: Battery maintenance is crucial for the continued operation of the CO and gas sensor. In the event AC power is lost, the CO and gas sensor will not operate in a low battery condition.

Maintenance Tips

To keep your alarm in good working order, you must follow these steps:

Test the alarm once a week by pressing the Test/Reset button.
Vacuum the alarm cover once a month to remove accumulated dust.
Never use detergents or solvents to clean the alarm. Chemicals can permanently damage or temporarily contaminate the sensor.
Avoid spraying air fresheners, hair spray, paint, or other aerosols near the alarm.
Do not paint the unit. Paint will seal the vents and interfere with proper sensor operation.

Move the CO and Gas alarm to a remote location, to prevent possible damage or contamination of the sensor, prior to performing any of the following:

Staining or stripping floors or furniture, painting or wallpapering
Using aerosols or adhesives

WARNING: Reinstall the CO and Gas alarm as soon as possible to assure continuous protection.

The following is a list of substances that at high levels can damage the sensor or cause temporary readings that are not CO readings:

Ethylene, ethanol, alcohol, iso-propanol, benzene, toluene, ethyl acetate, hydrogen, hydrogen sulfide and sulfur dioxide.
Also most aerosol sprays, alcohol-based products, paint, thinner, solvent, adhesive, hair spray, aftershave, perfume, auto exhaust (cold start) and some cleaning agents.

What to do When the Alarm Sounds!

Carbon Monoxide Alarm Procedure

WARNING: Activation of the CO Alarm indicates the presence of Carbon Monoxide (CO) which can kill you.

Operate the Test/Reset button;
Call your emergency services (Fire Department or 911);
Immediately move to fresh air - outdoors or by an open door/window. Do a head count to check that all persons are accounted for. Do not reenter the premises nor move away from the open door/window until the emergency services responders have arrived, the premises have been aired out, and your alarm remains in its normal condition.
After following steps 1-3, if the alarm reactivates within a 24-hour period, repeat steps 1-3 and call a qualified appliance technician to investigate sources of CO from fuel-burning equipment and appliances, and to inspect for proper operation of 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 manufacturer’s instructions, or contact the manufacturer directly for more information about CO safety and the equipment. Make sure that motor vehicles are not, or have not been, operating in a garage attached or adjacent to the residence. Never restart the source of a CO problem until it has been corrected. Never ignore the sound of the alarm! If the alarm is sounding, pressing the test/reset button will terminate the alarm. If the CO condition that caused the alert in the first place continues, the alarm will reactivate. If the unit alarms again within six minutes, it is sensing high levels of CO which can quickly become a dangerous situation.

Gas Alarm Procedure

WARNING: Activation of the Gas Alarm indicates the presence of an explosive gas which can cause an explosion and/or fire. When the unit senses either natural gas or propane, the display will show “GAS” and emit a loud alarm pattern. The alarm pattern for gas is a 1/2 second beep followed by a 1/2 second of silence then repeating. Know how to respond to a CO or gas emergency. If the unit alarms for gas:

Evacuate the premises;
Do not activate any electrical switch or telephone;
Contact your fire department.

NOTE: If Gas is present the unit will continue to alarm even if the “Test/Reset” button is pressed. The unit will stop alarming if gas is removed.

Note: Many times throughout this User Guide, we will refer to Carbon Monoxide as “CO”. The words “Gas” or “Explosive Gas” will refer to Natural Gas or Propane. This Kidde carbon monoxide (CO) and gas alarm is an important part of your family’s home safety plan. This alarm has been designed and tested to detect CO and gas buildup in a residential environment. Your alarm is for use specifically in the home. As an owner of a CO and gas alarm, there are some basic facts you should know about for your protection. Many people think that CO and gas alarms operate like smoke alarms. Like smoke alarms, CO and gas alarms monitor the air in your home and sound a loud alarm to warn you of trouble. The way you respond to a CO and gas alarm is quite different than a smoke alarm. That’s because a house fire and a CO or gas problem are distinctly different situations. If your smoke alarm were to alarm, you would quickly be able to judge the level of danger you were in with your senses. You can see and smell the smoke, feel the heat, see, and possibly hear the fire burning. You can also readily see if your smoke alarm is alarming in a non-emergency situation. Because your sense of sight, smell, hearing and touch give you information, you can almost instantly judge what action to take if you hear your smoke alarm. CO is an invisible, odorless, tasteless and non-irritating gas – completely undetectable to your senses. That’s why it is important to your safety that you have a CO alarm.

Note: Refer to Section 1 for information about natural gas and propane.

Important Warning Statements

IMPORTANT: This carbon monoxide and gas alarm is designed to detect carbon monoxide from ANY source of combustion. This alarm will also detect the presence of natural gas or propane. It is NOT designed to detect smoke or fire.

WARNING: Carbon monoxide alarms are not smoke alarms. This carbon monoxide alarm is not a substitute for installing and maintaining an appropriate number of smoke alarms in your home. This carbon monoxide and gas alarm will not sense smoke or fire, even though carbon monoxide can be generated by fire. For this reason, you must install smoke alarms to provide early warning of fire and to protect you and your family from fire and its related hazards.

CAUTION: This alarm will only indicate the presence of carbon monoxide, natural gas, or propane at the sensor. Carbon monoxide, natural gas, or propane may be present in other areas.

WARNING: This product is intended for use in ordinary indoor locations of family living units. It is not designed to measure compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), commercial or industrial standards. It is not suitable for installation in hazardous locations as defined in the National Electric Code. The installation of this device should not be used as a substitute for proper installation, use, and maintenance of fuel-burning appliances, including appropriate ventilation and exhaust systems. It does not prevent CO or gas from occurring, nor can it solve an existing CO or gas problem.

WARNING: This device is designed to protect individuals from the acute effects of carbon monoxide exposure. It may not fully safeguard individuals with specific medical conditions. If in doubt, consult a medical practitioner. Individuals with medical problems may consider using warning devices which provide audible and visual signals for carbon monoxide concentrations under 30 PPM. This carbon monoxide and gas alarm requires a continuous supply of electrical power – it will not work without power. Models without battery backup will not operate during power failure. The alarm will detect carbon monoxide primarily and explosive gas secondarily. CO events will take precedence over explosive gas events. This alarm has not been investigated for carbon monoxide detection below 70 PPM.

Information About Carbon Monoxide and Explosive Gas

General Carbon Monoxide Information

CO is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless poison gas that can be fatal when inhaled. CO inhibits the blood’s capacity to carry oxygen. Periodically review this alarm user guide and discuss your CO alarm emergency procedure with all the members of your family. Never ignore a CO alarm. A true alarm is an indication of potentially dangerous levels of CO. CO alarms are designed to alert you to the presence of CO before an emergency – before most people would experience symptoms of CO poisoning, giving you time to resolve the problem calmly. Determine if anyone in the household is experiencing symptoms of CO poisoning. Many cases of reported CO poisoning indicate that while victims are aware they are not well, they become so disoriented they are unable to save themselves by either exiting the building or calling for assistance. Also, young children and household pets may be the first affected. You should take extra precautions to protect high-risk persons from CO exposure because they may experience ill effects from CO at levels that would not ordinarily affect a healthy adult.

Symptoms of CO Poisoning

The following common symptoms are related to CO poisoning and should be discussed with ALL members of the household.

Mild Exposure: Slight headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue (often described as “flu-like” symptoms).
Medium Exposure: Severe throbbing headache, drowsiness, confusion, fast heart rate.
Extreme Exposure: Unconsciousness, convulsions, cardio-respiratory failure, death. If you experience even mild symptoms of CO poisoning, consult your doctor immediately!

Carbon Monoxide PPM Levels

Model KN-COEG-3 is equipped with a digital display that shows levels of CO (displayed in PPM – parts per million). Learn the difference between dangerous, high, mid, and low levels.

Dangerous Levels: When someone is experiencing symptoms of CO poisoning and CO readings are generally above 100 PPM. Anytime someone is experiencing the symptoms of CO poisoning this should be treated as an emergency. See “What to do When the Alarm Sounds” (inside front cover).
High Levels: Generally above 100 PPM, with no one experiencing symptoms. This should be treated as an urgent situation. See “What to do When the Alarm Sounds” (inside front cover).
Mid Levels: Generally between 50 PPM to 100 PPM. This should be cause for concern and should not be ignored or dismissed. See “What to do When the Alarm Sounds” (inside front cover).
Low Levels: Generally below 50 PPM. Kidde recommends you take action to eliminate the source of CO. See “What to do When the Alarm Sounds” (inside front cover).

Possible Sources of Carbon Monoxide

Inside your home, appliances used for heating and cooking are the most likely sources of CO. Vehicles running in attached garages can also produce dangerous levels of CO. CO can be produced when burning any fossil fuel, such as gasoline, propane, natural gas, oil, and wood. It can be produced by any fuel-burning appliance that is malfunctioning, improperly installed, or not ventilated correctly, such as:

Automobiles, furnaces, gas ranges/stoves, gas clothes dryers, water heaters, portable fuel-burning space heaters and generators, fireplaces, wood-burning stoves, and certain swimming pool heaters.
Blocked chimneys or flues, back drafts and changes in air pressure, corroded or disconnected vent pipes, loose or cracked furnace exchangers.
Vehicles and other combustion engines running in an open or closed garage, attached or near a home.
Burning charcoal or fuel in grills and hibachis in an enclosed area.

Conditions That Can Produce Carbon Monoxide

The following conditions can result in transient CO situations:

Excessive spillage or reverse venting of fuel-burning appliances caused by outdoor ambient conditions, such as wind direction and/or velocity, including high gusts of wind, heavy air in the vent pipes (cold/humid air with extended periods between cycles).
Negative pressure resulting from the use of exhaust fans.
Simultaneous operation of several fuel-burning appliances competing for limited internal 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, etc.).
Temperature inversions which can trap exhaust gases near the ground.
Vehicle idling in an open or closed garage, or near a home.

To be safe, know the possible sources of CO in your home. Keep fuel-burning appliances and their chimneys and vents in good working condition. Learn the early symptoms of exposure, and if you suspect CO poisoning, move outside to fresh air and get emergency help. Your first line of defense is an annual inspection and regular maintenance of your appliances. Contact a licensed contractor or call your local utility company for assistance.

Information About Carbon Monoxide Alarms – What They Can and Cannot Do

CO alarms provide early warning of the presence of CO, usually before a healthy adult would experience symptoms. This early warning is possible, however, only if your CO alarm is located, installed, and maintained as described in this guide. Because carbon monoxide is a cumulative poison, long-term exposures to low levels may cause symptoms, as well as short-term exposures to high levels. This Kidde unit has a time-weighted alarm – the higher the level of CO present, the sooner the alarm will be triggered. This CO alarm can only warn you of the presence of CO. It does not prevent CO from occurring, nor can it solve an existing CO problem. If your unit has alarmed and you’ve provided ventilation by leaving your windows and doors open, the CO buildup may have dissipated by the time help responds. Although your problem may appear to be temporarily solved, it’s crucial that the source of the CO is determined and that the appropriate repairs are made. This CO alarm is designed to act as a monitor; it is not designed for use as a short-term testing device to perform a quick check for the presence of CO. CO alarms have limitations. Like any other electronic device, CO alarms are not fool-proof. CO alarms have a limited operational life. You must test your CO alarm weekly, because it could fail to operate at any time. If your CO alarm fails to test properly, or if its self-diagnostic test reveals a malfunction, immediately have the unit replaced. This alarm will not monitor CO levels while in an error condition. CO alarms can only sense CO that reaches the unit’s sensor. It’s possible that CO may be present in other areas without reaching the alarm. The rate and ability that which CO reaches the alarm may be affected by:

Doors or other obstructions.
Fresh air from a vent, an open window, or other source.
CO being present on one level of the home and not reach a CO alarm installed on a different level. (For example, CO in the basement may not reach an alarm on the second level, near the bedrooms).

For these reasons, we recommend you provide complete coverage by placing a CO alarm on every level of the home. Please carefully read all information on properly installing this CO alarm. CO alarms should not be used to detect the presence of natural gas (methane), propane, butane, or other combustible fuels. Instruct children never to touch, unplug, or otherwise interfere with the alarm. Warn children of the dangers of CO poisoning.

General Information About Explosive Gas

Natural Gas is typically supplied through a main utility line connected to your home. If you do not live in a rural area you are likely to be a user of natural gas. Natural gas is much lighter than air and will rise rapidly. If you are a user of natural gas, mount your CO and Gas alarm no closer than 6 inches from the ceiling to ensure the earliest opportunity to detect a leak. Propane is typically supplied to homes via delivery truck in liquid form and stored near the home in propane tanks. Propane and LP-gas (liquefied petroleum) are often used synonymously. Propane is much heavier than air and will collect at lower levels. If you are a user of propane, mount your CO and Gas alarm near the floor to ensure the earliest opportunity to detect a leak. Both propane and natural gas are colorless and odorless. For safety reasons, an odorant (Mercaptan) is added so that any leak can be detected by smell. The common detection threshold for smelling the gases is around 20% of the lower explosion limit (LEL). This can vary greatly depending on the individuals’ sense of smell and how long they have been exposed to either gas. The LEL of each of these gases defines the bottom range of flammability for the gas. Your CO and Gas alarm is calibrated to alarm before 25% of the LEL of either gas detected. Therefore, it is possible that you may smell gas before the alarm activates.

Troubleshooting

Here are some common issues and solutions for the Kidde Explosive Gas Alarm Clock KN-COEG-3:

The alarm is beeping or chirping: This could indicate a low battery, a problem with the AC power, or a malfunction in the alarm. Check the battery and replace it if necessary. If the issue persists, press the test/reset button to verify proper operation. If the alarm still does not function correctly, contact Kidde's customer support.
The digital display is blank: This could indicate a dead battery or a problem with the AC power. Check the battery and replace it if necessary. If the issue persists, check the power cord and outlet to ensure that they are functioning correctly.
The alarm will not silence: If the alarm will not silence, press and hold the test/reset button until the alarm sounds and then releases. This will silence the alarm and reset the system.

FIVE YEAR WARRANTY

The manufacturer warrants to the original consumer purchaser, that this product (except battery) will be free of defects in material and workmanship for a period of five (5) years from the date of purchase. The manufacturer’s liability hereunder is limited to replacement of the product, repair of the product or replacement of the product with a repaired product at the discretion of the manufacturer. This warranty is void if the product has been damaged by accident, unreasonable use, neglect, tampering or other causes not arising from defects in material or workmanship. This warranty extends to the original consumer purchaser of the product only.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Dual-purpose CO alarm and clock combination
Easy-to-read digital display
Loud, 85-decibel warning signal
Test/reset button for easy alarm verification and silence feature
UL certified for safety and performance

Cons

Some users may find the beeping noise during power outages annoying
The LED indicator can be distracting in a dark room at night

Customer Reviews about Kidde Explosive Gas Alarm Clock KN-COEG-3

Customers generally have positive things to say about the Kidde Explosive Gas Alarm Clock KN-COEG-3. They appreciate the dual-purpose functionality of the CO alarm and clock combination and find the digital display easy to read. Some users have noted that the beeping noise during power outages can be annoying, but overall, the KN-COEG-3 receives high marks for its safety features, ease of use, and reliability.

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