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AC Powered with Battery Backup
Carbon Monoxide
Alarm
User’s Guide
with Digital Display, Peak Level Memory, and Battery Backup
Model: KN-COPD-3-UK
KM 98848
EN50291:2001
Includes a
9 Volt Battery
For questions concerning your Alarm, please
call Kidde Safety Europe on 01753 685148
Please have the following information
ready when calling:
Alarm Model number (located on front of alarm):
Alarm Assembly number (located on back of alarm):
Date of Manufacture (located on the back of the alarm):
Date of Purchase:
Where Purchased:
Attention: Please take a few minutes to thoroughly read this manual, which should be saved for future
reference and passed on to any subsequent owner. If you have any questions about the operation or instal-
lation of your alarm, please call Kidde Safety Europe on 01753 685148
820-1196 REV. A
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IMPORTANT
THIS CARBON MONOXIDE ALARM IS DESIGNED TO DETECT
CARBON MONOXIDE GAS FROM ANY SOURCE OF IMPROPER
OR MALFUNCTIONING APPLIANCES. IT WILL NOT SENSE
SMOKE, FIRE, OR ANY POISONOUS GAS OTHER THAN CAR-
BON MONOXIDE. 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.
WARNING!
THIS UNIT IS NOT A SMOKE ALARM. IT WILL NOT SENSE
SMOKE OR FIRE. IT IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR INSTALLING
AND MAINTAINING AN APPROPRIATE NUMBER OF SMOKE
ALARMS IN YOUR HOME. FOR EARLY WARNING OF FIRE, YOU
MUST INSTALL SMOKE ALARMS EVEN THOUGH CARBON
MONOXIDE CAN BE GENERATED BY FIRE.
THIS PRODUCT IS INTENDED FOR USE IN ORDINARY INDOOR
RESIDENTIAL AREAS. IT IS NOT DESIGNED TO MEASURE
COMPLIANCE WITH COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL STAN-
DARDS.
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.
INDIVIDUALS WITH MEDICAL PROBLEMS MAY CONSIDER USING
WARNING DEVICES WHICH PROVIDE AUDIBLE AND VISUAL SIG-
NALS FOR CARBON MONOXIDE CONCENTRATIONS UNDER 30
PPM.
THIS ALARM WILL NOT WORK WITHOUT POWER. THIS ALARM
REQUIRES A CONTINUOUS SUPPLY OF POWER. DURING A
POWER OUTAGE, UNIT WILL OPERATE FOR AT LEAST 20
HOURS ON A 9 VOLT BATTERY WITH FULL CAPACITY.
ELECTRICAL SHOCK OR MALFUNCTION MAY OCCUR IF TAM-
PERED WITH, OR NOT INSTALLED IN ACCORDANCE WITH
MANUFACTURERS INSTRUCTIONS.
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Quick Set Up Guide
We urge you to read this entire manual in the sequence it is presented.
Listed below are five easy steps for setting up your Kidde CO Alarm. Please read
this entire guide for complete information.
Note: This CO alarm must be installed by a competent person.
Step 1
-
Determine the best location for your CO alarm(s). Refer to
Installation, Where to Install Your Alarm for complete information.
Install the 9 volt backup battery. To install the battery, open the back
Step 2
-
cover and snap the battery connector onto the battery. You will hear the alarm
sound briefly to indicate the unit is receiving power. At power up, you will see a
flashing red dot and three eights in the digital display indicating the alarm is warm-
ing up. After approximately 20 seconds the unit will start sampling for CO. During
this period a number will appear on the digital display. The number on the digital
display should be zero (0). See “Normal Operating Characteristics” for complete
information on operating characteristics.
Place the battery into the battery compartment and replace the back cover.
IMPORTANT!
A small screwdriver or similar tool may be required to remove the back cover. The back
cover should be levered up from the centre recess at the bottom of the alarm. The cover is
designed this way to discourage the removal of batteries, or tampering, by young children.
Step 3
-
Determine how you want to mount the alarm. Your CO alarm is
equipped to be mounted as a corded, a direct plug, or a table top unit. Refer to
Installation, How to Install your Alarm for complete instructions about how to
configure your alarm for installation.
Step 4
-
Install the alarm. Plug the alarm into a standard un-switched 230 volt
AC electrical outlet in one of the alarm configurations listed in step 3. Wait 2 to 3
minutes after power up and make sure the red dot in the digital display is blinking.
Step 5 - Test the unit’s operation by pressing and releasing the Test/Reset
button. Within 15 seconds you will hear 8 seconds of quick beeps.
While testing the alarm, have someone else check that the alarm can be heard
easily from the sleeping areas. The unit should be located where it can wake you
if it alarms at night.
Your alarm is now monitoring for the presence of CO.
For complete testing information, refer to How to Test Your CO Alarm” section.
Caution: Continuous exposure to the loud 85 decibel alarm at close range over
an extended period of time may cause hearing loss. We recommend that you
cover the front of the unit while testing the alarm with the palm of your hand.
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Introduction
This Kidde Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarm is an important part of your family’s
home safety plan. Here are some basic facts you should know for your pro-
tection and convenience
Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide is invisible, odourless, tasteless, nonirritating, poisonous
gas that is completely undetectable to your senses. It is created when any fuel
is burned. When oxygen is limited during combustion, more CO is produced.
Serious problems can develop when combustion by-products are not properly
vented outside the house. That’s why it’s so important to your safety that
you have a CO alarm.
Front view
Blinking
Red Dot
Digital
Display
Alarm
Fault
Peak Level
Button
Power
Test/Reset
Button
Rear view
Rear view with back door removed
Removable
Adapter
Battery
Connector
Cord
Recess
9 volt
Backup
Battery
Power
Cord
Adapter
Cord Strain
Relief
Back Door
Key Holes
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Features
Your CO Alarm
The feature that sets this Kidde alarm apart from other alarms is the
unique digital display that gives you a continuous readout of CO levels
from 30-999 parts per million. The digital display serves as an early
warning of CO presence.
This Kidde alarm gives you the choice of a direct-plug unit, a wall
mount unit, or tabletop unit all in one.
Kidde CO Alarm Unique Features
Digital Display
The continuous digital display indicates the level of carbon monoxide (if
any) the unit is sensing. The unit updates this reading every 15 sec-
onds so you can watch CO levels rise or fall.
Note: If the unit does not sense any CO, the display reading is zero (0).
In most homes, the unit reads “0” all the time. A reading of “0” is
expected under normal conditions, and is good. The blinking dot after
the number indicates that the unit is operating.
Test/Reset Button
This button has two functions. First, this is the button you press when
you test the unit weekly (see “How to test your CO Alarm” section). It’s
also used when resetting the peak level memory.
Peak Level Button
By pressing this button, you can see the peak CO level recorded by the
alarm since it was last cleared or unplugged. This Kidde alarm feature
allows you (or heating contractor or fireman) to see exactly how big a
CO problem you have so you can react accordingly.
Sensors
The CO sensor is a highly sensitive, electrochemical sensor that is CO
specific to help avoid false alarms.
Sounder Alarm
This is the loud 85 decibel pulsing alarm that will sound to alert you to a
potential problem.
Pullout Transformer/Adapter
This unique Kidde alarm feature enables the alarm to be used as a
direct plug unit, a wall mounted unit or a tabletop unit.
9 Volt Backup Battery
This CO Alarm is not battery operated. The 9 volt battery is to supply a
short-term backup power during a power cut. In the event of a power cut,
a fully charged 9 volt battery will continue operating the alarm for at least
20 hours, during battery backup conditions.
When installing a fresh battery, use either an Energizer 522, Duracell MX1604
or MN1604, or for extended battery life an Ultralife lithium power cell model
U9VL. Any of these batteries can usually be purchased where you bought the
alarm or at your local hardware store.
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Features
What Carbon Monoxide Can and Cannot Do
This unit is designed to sense certain levels of CO from malfunctioning
furnaces, appliances, gas engines or other sources. This unit will pro-
vide early warning of the presence of carbon monoxide, usually before
a healthy adult would experience symptoms.
This early warning is possible only if your Kidde CO Alarm is located,
installed and maintained as described in this user’s guide.
When on AC power, this unit is designed to act as a continuous moni-
tor; 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 a limited operational life. You must test your alarm
weekly, because it could fail to operate at any time. If it does fail to test
properly, or if its self-diagnostic test reveals a malfunction, immediately
have the unit replaced. See the back page for warranty information.
CO Alarms can only sense CO that reaches the unit’s sensor. CO may
be present in other areas without reaching the alarm. Doors or other
obstructions may affect the rate at which CO reaches the unit. In addi-
tion, fresh air from a vent or open window or any other source may pre-
vent CO from reaching the sensor. Please observe cautions in the
“Where to install your alarm” section.
CO could be present on one level of the home and not reach the 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 this rea-
son, we recommend you provide complete coverage by placing a CO
Alarm on every level of the home.
This unit is not a smoke alarm. It will not sense smoke or fire. For early
warning of fire you must install smoke alarms, even though a fire can
generate carbon monoxide.
CO alarms are not a substitute for property, disability, life or other insur-
ance of any kind. Appropriate insurance coverage is your responsibility.
Consult your insurance company.
Where to Install Your CO Alarm
RECOMMENDED LOCATIONS
DINING
KITCHEN BEDROOM BEDROOM
LIVING ROOM
BEDROOM
WHEN CHOOSING YOUR INSTALLATION LOCATIONS, MAKE SURE
YOU CAN HEAR THE ALARM FROM ALL SLEEPING AREAS.
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Installation
Mounting Configuration
LOCATION
Your Kidde CO Alarm should be mounted in or near bedrooms and liv-
ing areas or wherever you suspect a CO exposure to be likely. It is rec-
ommended that you install a Kidde CO Alarm on each level of a multi-
level home.
CAUTION: This alarm will only indicate the presence of CO at the sen-
sor. Carbon monoxide may be present in other areas.
IMPORTANT: Improper location can affect the sensitive electronic com-
ponents in this alarm. Please see the next section describing where
NOT to install this alarm.
Where Not to Install Your CO Alarm
To avoid causing damage to the unit, to provide optimum protection,
and to prevent unnecessary alarms, follow the directions below where
NOT to install this alarm:
It is not recommended that you install this CO Alarm in garages or
kitchens. Installation in these areas could lead to nuisance alarms, may
expose the sensor to substances that could damage or contaminate it,
or the alarm may not be heard by persons in other areas of the home,
especially if they are sleeping.
In the garage, vehicle exhaust can contain some CO. These levels are
higher when the engine is first started. Within hours of starting a vehicle
and backing it out of the garage, the level of remaining CO present can
activate the alarm and cause a nuisance alarm.
In the kitchen, some gas appliances can emit a short burst of CO upon
start-up. This is normal. If your CO Alarm is mounted too close to these
appliances, it may alarm often and become a nuisance.
If you must install a Kidde CO Alarm near a cooking or heating appli-
ance, install AT LEAST 1.5 metres (5 feet) away from the appliance.
Do not install the alarm in excessively dusty, dirty or greasy areas such
as kitchens, garages and boiler rooms. Dust grease or household
chemicals can contaminate or coat the alarm’s sensors, causing the
alarm not to operate properly.
Do not obstruct the vents on the alarm. Place the alarm where drapes,
furniture or other objects do not block the flow of air to the vents.
Do not install in dead air spaces, such as peaks of vaulted ceilings, a
gabled roof or within 15.2 cm (6”) of ceiling, where CO may not reach
the sensor in time to provide early warning.
Do not install in turbulent air from ceiling fans. Do not install near doors
and windows that open to the outside, near fresh air vents, or anywhere
that is drafty. Rapid air circulation from fans or fresh air from outside
may cause the sensors to display an inaccurate reading.
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Installation
Do not install this alarm to a switch- or dimmer-controlled outlet if pos-
sible.
Do not install in areas where the temperature is colder than 4.4°C
(40°F) or hotter than 37.8°C (100°F). These areas include uncondi-
tioned crawl spaces, attics, porches and garages. Extreme tempera-
tures will affect the sensitivity of the alarm.
Do not install this unit near deep cell large batteries. Large batteries
have emissions that can cause the alarm to perform at less than opti-
mum performance.
Avoid the following:
• Excessive spillage or reverse venting of fuel burning appliances
caused by outdoor ambient conditions, such as:
1) Wind direction and/or velocity, including high gusts of wind.
Heavy air in the vent pipes (cold/humid air with extended periods
between cycles).
2) Negative pressure differential resulting from the use of exhaust
fans.
3) Simultaneous operation of several fuel burning appliances com-
peting for limited internal air.
4) Vent pipe connections vibrating loose from a clothes drier, fur-
nace or water heater.
5) 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 that can trap exhaust gasses near the
ground.
• Car idling in an open or closed attached garage, or near a home.
How to Install Your CO Alarm
Your Kidde CO Alarm with its removable adapter allows you to install
the alarm as a wall mounted unit, a direct plug unit, or as a table top
unit.
Refer to Where to Install Your CO Alarm for general guidelines.
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Installation
Direct Plug Alarm
In its “as shipped” configuration, your Kidde CO Alarm is ready to be
plugged directly into a wall-mains socket.
To install:
1.) Choose a standard unswitched 230V electrical outlet to plug the
alarm into.
2.) Plug the alarm in.
Note: Do not cover the alarm with a curtain or other obstruction.
Wall Mounted Alarm
For a wall-mount, you will need to pull out the removable adapter and
power cord. This simple process is described on the following pages.
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.
Note: If you mount the alarm high on a wall, make sure it is at least
15.2 cm (6") from the ceiling. Any higher than this, it will be in “dead air
space” and CO may not reach the sensors.
To remove the adapter and install:
1. With the bottom of the unit facing you (adapter at top), use a small
screwdriver or similar tool to pry the back cover up to release it.
2. Remove the back cover.
3. Next, place your thumb on the adapter
thumb release and pull the adapter
thumb release out slightly. Pull the
adapter out of the alarm with your other
hand.
4. With the adapter removed, pull the power
cord out of the cord recess, remove the
twist tie, and extend the power cord.
Adapter Release
5. With the power cord extended, tuck the last few inches of the power
cord into the cord recess (See the illustration on page 4). Gently
pull the cord at the bottom of the cord recess until the cord
becomes taught and lays flat in cord recess.
6. Using the back cover, mark the location for the two mounting holes
on the wall.
WALL
7. If you are mounting the alarm in plaster board or
drywall, drill a 4.8 mm (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 3 mm (1/8") from
1/8"
the wall.
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Installation
8. Hook the keyhole in the back cover over the screw head before or
after replacing the back cover on the unit.
9. Plug the adapter into an unswitched wall socket.
Table Top Alarm
You can also use your Kidde CO Alarm as a table top unit. Simply fol-
low the steps for removing adapter, then instead of mounting the alarm
to a wall, replace the back cover and stand the unit on a table, bed-
side stand, or chest of drawers.
Normal Operating Characteristics
When you first power up the unit, the alarm will sound briefly to let you
know the unit is receiving power and that the alarm circuit is function-
ing.
You should 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 should see a blinking red dot to the lower right of the
digital display. The blinking dot indicates that the alarm is operating.
Within 20 seconds, your CO alarm will start monitoring for CO.
Note: The number will probably be zero (0). This is a normal condition
for most households and indicates that no measurable amount of CO is
being detected.
The alarm has begun monitoring the air for CO and will continue to do
so as long as it receives power.
When the alarm is unplugged or loses power and you have a good 9
volt battery 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.
• The digital display will show a number for CO only if it senses CO
while in backup mode.
• If CO is detected while on battery backup, the alarm pattern is con-
tinuous quick beeps .
Note: When AC power is restored, the alarm will automatically switch
back to normal operating mode.
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Normal Operation
Low Battery Warning
If the 9 volt battery is missing, or if the battery’s power is low, an “Lb”
message will display which blinks alternately with the current CO read-
ing every second. If this happens, you need to replace the battery.
When you have a low battery installed, you will notice the following:
• A blinking dot will be displayed and the sounder will chirp every 15
seconds.
• The yellow LED will blink once every 15 seconds.
• The display will alternate between “Lb.” (low battery) and CO reading
while chirping.
When battery is depleted and the unit is not receiving AC mains power:
• A blinking dot will be displayed and the sounder will chirp approxi-
mately every 30 seconds.
• The yellow LED will flash approximately every 30 seconds.
• Pressing the test button will not elicit any response.
The alarm will not detect CO if the battery is depleted. Replace the bat-
tery and plug the unit back into the AC outlet.
Constant exposures to high or low humidity may reduce battery life. We
recommend you replace your 9 volt battery at least every six months.
How to Test Your CO Alarm
You should test the alarm once a week, following the directions listed
below. If at any time you test the alarm and it does not perform as
described, have it replaced immediately.
Turn to “How to know if your alarm is malfunctioning” section for a
description of the characteristics of a malfunctioning alarm and what
you should do if a malfunction occurs.
Observe the alarm weekly to make sure the red dot is blinking, indicat-
ing normal operation.
If the dot is not blinking, unplug the alarm for three minutes, and 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 unit is operating
properly, you should notice the following:
The unit will beep and the yellow LED will flash acknowledging the but-
ton was pressed and the self test has started. The display indicates
three eights, then displays a number (usually around 200). You should
then hear 8 seconds of quick beeps. The unit will then show the three
eights for several seconds. It will then return to monitoring for CO.
Familiarize yourself and household members with the alarm pattern
described above for a CO event.
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Normal Operation
While on AC power, in the event of a CO incident, the alarm pattern will
continue to repeat as long as CO 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 BUTTON TO TAKE A CO
READING. CO readings are automatically shown on the alarm’s digital
display. If the alarm indicates zero (0), then no measurable amount of
CO has been sensed by the alarm within the past 15 seconds.
How to Know If Your Alarm is Malfunctioning
Your alarm performs an internal self-diagnosis every 15 seconds to
make sure that it is functioning properly. The alarm is designed to alert
you in the unusual event of a malfunction.
If the alarm malfunctions
In the rare event that your alarm malfunctions, it will alert you with one
of these signal groups (depending upon the type of malfunction that
occurs):
Malfunction Signal Group 1 - Component Failure
– An intermittent “chirping” alarm will sound every 30 seconds.
– An “Err” message will appear on the digital display,
– The yellow LED will light continuously, and
– The unit does not respond to pressing the Test button.
OR,
Malfunction Signal Group 2 - Microprocessor Failure
– The alarm will sound continuously,
– The digital display will be blank,
– The yellow LED will light continuously
– The alarm cannot be shut off by pushing “Test/Reset” button, and,
– The unit is receiving sufficient power from the 230 volt outlet or
fresh battery.
Unplug the alarm immediately and return for warranty exchange (see
“Warranty” on back page).
What to do if you’re not sure...
PLEASE familiarize yourself with the malfunction alert, Do not confuse
these signals with an alarm. After reading the information above, if you
are still unsure whether your alarm is operating properly, call the Kidde
Freephone Customer Hotline at 0800 917 0722 to do a quick diagnostic
check of the alarm over the phone. The customer service representa-
tive will be able to assist you and answer your questions.
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Normal Operation
If your alarm sounder is beeping, and you are not sure if it is a CO
alarm or a malfunction alert, reset the alarm, open windows for ventila-
tion and evacuate the premises immediately. Then call the Kidde
Freephone Customer Hotline at 0800 917 0722 for assistance.
Never ignore an alarm. A true alarm is an indication of potentially dan-
gerous levels of CO.
How to Care for Your Alarm
To keep your alarm in good working order, you must follow these sim-
ple steps:
• Test the alarm once a week by pressing the Test/Reset button.
• Vacuum the alarm cover once a month to remove accumulated dust.
Unplug the alarm from the electrical outlet and use the soft brush
attachment of your vacuum cleaner.
• Instruct children never to touch, unplug, or otherwise interfere with the
alarm.
• Never use detergents or solvents to clean the alarm. Chemicals can
permanently damage or temporarily contaminate the sensor.
• Avoid spraying air freshener, hair spray, paint or other aerosols near
the alarm.
• Do not paint the alarm. Paint will seal the vents and interfere with
proper sensor operation.
• Do not mount the alarm directly above or near a nappy pail.
Note: If you will be staining or stripping wood floors or furniture, paint-
ing, wall-papering, or using aerosols or adhesives for a do-it-yourself
project or hobby, before you begin:
Remove the alarm to a remote location to prevent possible damage to
or contamination of the sensor. You may wish to unplug the alarm and
store in a plastic bag during the project.
The following is a list of substances that at high levels can affect the
sensor and cause an alarm.
Methane, propane, iso-butane, ethylene, ethanol, alcohol, carbon
monoxide, iso-propanol, benzene, toluene, ethyl acetate, hydrogen,
hydrogen sulfide, sulfur dioxides.
Most aerosol sprays, alcohol based products, fresh paint, thinner, sol-
vent, adhesive, hair spray, aftershave, perfume, auto exhaust (cold
start) and some cleaning agents.
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Normal Operation
The Peak Level Memory Button
When the Peak button is pressed the unit will display the highest CO
concentration measured since the peak memory was last reset or the
unit was powered. Levels between 11 and 999-ppm will be display
although the unit does not display values below 30-ppm during normal
operation. Although the peak level will display values below 30ppm the
unit will never result in an alarm no matter how long the device is
exposed to these levels. Peak Levels below 30ppm are for reference
only and the accuracy of the concentration shown may not be as accu-
rate as noted in the technical information section. DO NOT ignore read-
ings above 30ppm or an alarming device. Refer to the following section
“What to Do When The Alarm Sounds”.
To Reset the Peak Level Memory…
Step 1. Press the peak level button.
Step 2. With the peak level button still pressed, press the test/reset but-
ton for two seconds and release.
The number on the display will turn to “0”. The memory has now been
cleared and the alarm will begin monitoring for CO within a few min-
utes.
The Effects of CO Exposure
When you breathe carbon monoxide, it enters your bloodstream
through your lungs and attaches to red blood cells. These red blood
cells, called haemoglobin, carry oxygen throughout your body. CO mol-
ecules attach to the red blood cells 200 times faster than oxygen, pre-
venting the flow of oxygen to your heart, brain and vital organs. As CO
accumulates in your bloodstream, your body becomes starved for oxy-
gen. The amount of CO in a person’s body can be measured by a sim-
ple blood test, called a “carboxyhaemoglobin level” test .
The early symptoms of CO poisoning are often mistaken for the flu –
headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, sleepiness, and
confusion. Breathing very high concentrations of CO can be lethal in
minutes.
Your Family at Risk for CO Poisoning
Carbon monoxide is the number one cause of poisoning deaths. While
anyone is susceptible, experts agree that unborn babies, small chil-
dren, senior citizens and people with heart or respiratory problems are
especially vulnerable to CO and are at the greatest risk for death or
serious injury.
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Normal Operation
Where CO Comes From
Inside your home, fuel burning appliances used for heating and cook-
ing are the most likely sources of CO. Vehicles running in attached
garages can also produce dangerous levels of carbon monoxide.
A by-product of combustion, CO can be a potential problem from a
number of common sources such as – a running automobile, a fur-
nace or water heater leak or misuse of a fireplace, wood stove, char-
coal grill, a gas range and space heater leak or misuse, and running
portable generators where exhaust can enter the home.
When appliances are in good working condition and with proper venti-
lation, lethal CO gas is vented outdoors where it quickly disperses.
Even the slightest malfunction or misuse of any of the above sources
can lead to a build-up of CO in your home that can become deadly
before you even know it’s there.
You don’t have to have ancient appliances to have a CO problem.
Today’s more energy-efficient, airtight home designs can trap CO pol-
luted air inside where it can quickly build to lethal levels.
What You Can do to Protect Your Family
To be safe, know the possible sources of CO in your home. Keep fuel-
burning appliances, their chimneys, and vents in good working condi-
tion. Learn the early symptoms of CO exposure. If you suspect CO
poisoning, move outside to fresh air and get emergency help. A blood
test can confirm that CO has caused the symptoms of CO poisoning.
Your first line of defence is an annual inspection and regular mainte-
nance of your appliances. Contact a qualified Corgi installer or
Transco (British Gas) for assistance.
Remember, problems can begin after an inspection has been complet-
ed. CO can come from sources such as a crack in a furnace heat
exchanger, or a leak in a water heater vent or a bird’s nest blocking a
flue. Other sources of CO are nearly impossible to detect; even a
change in the air pressure outside can turn a normally safe situation
deadly. That’s why you need the 24-hour protection provided by a CO
Alarm.
Home Safety Tips
What You Can Do...
• Buy only appliances approved by a nationally recognized testing
laboratory.
• Choose fuel-burning appliances that can be vented to the outdoors.
• Make sure appliances are installed according to manufacturer’s
instructions and local building codes. Most appliances should be
installed by professionals and should be inspected by the proper
authority after installation.
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What You Should Know Before the Alarm Sounds
• Have the heating system, vents, chimney and flue inspected and
cleaned by a qualified technician every year.
• Follow manufacturer’s directions for safe operation of all fuel-
burning appliances.
• Examine vents and chimneys regularly for improper connections,
visible rust or stains.
• Open a window when a fireplace or wood-burning stove is in use,
and provide adequate outdoor air for furnace and water heater.
• Notice problems that could indicate improper appliance operation:
– Decreasing hot water supply
– Furnace unable to heat house or runs constantly
– Sooting, especially on appliances
– Unfamiliar or burning odour
– Yellow or orange flame
• Be aware of the symptoms of CO poisoning:
– headaches, dizziness, weakness, sleepiness, nausea, vomiting,
confusion and disorientation.
• Recognize that CO poisoning may be the cause when family
members suffer from flu-like symptoms that don’t disappear but
improve when they leave home for extended periods of time.
Be Aware of the Warning Signs of Carbon Monoxide:
Indicators of Possible CO Leaks
• Streaks of carbon or soot around the service door of your fuel-
burning appliances.
• A yellow or orange flame may indicate a problem with natural gas
appliances.
• Excessive rusting on flue pipes or appliance jackets.
• Loose or missing furnace panel.
• Moisture collecting on the windows and walls of furnace rooms.
• Loose or disconnected vent/chimney, fireplace or appliance.
• Small amounts of water leaking from the base of the chimney,
vent or flue pipe.
• Rust on the portion of the vent pipe visible from outside your
home.
• The absence of a draft in your chimney (indicating blockage).
• Fallen soot from the fireplace chimney.
• Loose, damaged or discoloured bricks on your chimney.
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What You Should Know Before the Alarm Sounds
Hidden Causes of CO Emission
• Internal appliance damage or malfunctioning components
• Improper burner adjustment
• Hidden blockage or damage in chimneys
Determine if anyone in the household is at high-risk for CO poison-
ing:
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 assis-
tance.
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. Be sure to
check infants or small children in the home for signs of possible CO
poisoning because they might have trouble explaining their symp-
toms. Infants and children are more susceptible to CO poisoning
than a healthy adult.
Pregnant women should be aware that their unborn fetus could be
harmed by exposure to CO, even when the mother suffers no ill
effect. Any pregnant woman who suspects she may have been
exposed to CO should immediately contact her physician.
What You Should Not Do...
• Never burn charcoal inside a home, garage, cabin, mobile home
or caravan.
• Never install, service, or convert fuel-burning appliances from
one type to another without proper knowledge, skills and tools.
• Never use a gas range, oven, or clothes dryer for heating.
• Never operate unvented gas-burning appliances, such as
kerosene or natural gas space heaters, in a closed room.
• Never operate gasoline-powered engines (like vehicles, motorcy-
cles, lawn mowers, garden equipment, or power tools) in con-
fined areas such as garages or basements, even if an outside
door or a window is open.
• Never ignore a safety device when it shuts off an appliance.
• Never ignore a CO alarm.
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The Effects of Carbon Monoxide Exposure
Anyone in the household who is elderly, has anemia, heart disease,
respiratory problems, emphysema, or chronic bronchitis, is at a higher
risk of CO poisoning and health problems from exposure to CO. If any-
one in the household is at high risk for CO poisoning, we urge you to
take extra precaution to prevent possible poisoning. You should consid-
er a more sensitive alarm for your home safety. If the unit alarms or if
CO readings are shown on the digital display, remove the at-risk person
from the premises. Ventilate the area.
The high-risk person(s) should not re-enter the residence until the
source of the CO problem has been identified and corrected.
The Effects of Carbon Monoxide Exposure:
PARTS
PERCENT
OF CO
EFFECTS ON ADULTS
PER
MILLION
100
200
400
Slight headache within 2~3 hours
0.01
0.02
0.04
Dizziness/mild headache within 2~3 hours
Nausea/frontal headache within 1~2 hrs.
RISK TO LIFE OVER 3 HOURS
800
1600
3200
6400
12800
Severe headache/convulsions within 45
minutes - death possible within 2~3 hours.
0.08
0.16
0.32
0.64
1.28
Headache/nausea within 20 minutes. Death
possible within 1~2 hours.
Headache etc. within 5-10 minutes. Death
possible within 15 minutes.
Sever symptoms within 2 minutes. Death
within 15 minutes.
Death within 1~3 minutes.
Source: Corgi Gas installers technical article - October 2005
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W
What To Do When The Alarm Sounds
h
What to Do When the Alarm Sounds for Carbon Monoxide
Determine if anyone in the household is experiencing symp-
toms of CO poisoning. Many cases of reported CO poisoning
indicate that while victims are aware they are not well, they
a
t
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. The fol-
lowing symptoms are related to CARBON MONOXIDE POI-
SONING and should be discussed with ALL members of the
t
o
household.
d
o
WARNING: Actuation of this CO
Alarm indicates the presence of Carbon
Monoxide (CO) which can kill you.
W
h
When the CO Alarm senses a dangerous level of CO, the unit
will emit a loud alarm pattern and display the concentration of
CO in parts per million (PPM). The alarm pattern is a series of
short beeps. This pattern is repeated until the CO concentra-
tion has dropped to normal level.
e
n
Know how to respond to a CO emergency. Periodically review
this user’s guide and discuss it with all members of your fami-
ly.
t
h
e
If the Alarm Sounds for Carbon Monoxide:
1) Operate test/reset button;
2) Call Transco (British Gas);
A
l
a
r
m
3) Immediately move to fresh air. Do a head count to check
that all persons are accounted for. Do not re-enter the
premises until British Gas responders have arrived, the
premises have been aired out, and your CO Alarm
remains in its normal condition.
4) After following steps 1-3, if your alarm reactivates within a
24 hour period, repeat steps 1-3 and call a qualified Corgi
installer to examine and/or turn off your gas/oil fired appli-
ances such as space heater, boiler, water heater, cooker
oven, clothes dryer or other source of combustion, such as
paraffin burning stove or heater or gas log fireplace. If your
car is idling in an attached garage, turn off the engine.
5) To investigate for sources of CO from fuel burning equip-
ment and appliances, and inspect for proper operation of
this equipment. If problems are identified during this
inspection have the equipment serviced immediately.
S
o
u
n
d
s
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W
h
a
t
What To Do When The Alarm Sounds
Note any combustion equipment not inspected by the techni-
cian and consult the manufacturer’s instructions, or contact
the manufacturer 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.
t
o
Treatment for CO Poisoning
Any person who is suspected to have CO poisoning should
leave the potentially dangerous environment, get fresh air
immediately and seek care from a physician. CO poisoning
can be determined by a simple blood test, called a “carboxy-
haemoglobin” test. This test measures the amount of CO in
the bloodstream. For this test to be accurate, it must be done
immediately after CO exposure. Acute CO poisoning is usu-
ally treated by breathing in oxygen. When CO poisoning is
severe, (for example, when there is an altered state of con-
sciousness), high-pressure oxygen therapy in a special
“hyperbaric chamber” may be used. A physician will make
this determination and administer treatment if necessary.
d
o
W
h
e
n
t
h
e
A
l
a
r
m
S
o
u
n
d
s
19
2520-7203-00.qxd 2006.4.7 3:50 PM Page 20
What To Do When The Alarm Sounds
Call a Qualified Technician to Find and Repair the Problem
Call a qualified service technician (such as a licensed heating
contractor, utility service technician or fuel provider) to inspect
your home for possible sources of CO leak. Do not restart
these appliances until the problem is corrected. Request the
inspection and service for as soon as possible if not immediate-
ly.
Please be aware that some service technicians may charge a
fee to inspect your home, even if the source of CO is not found.
You may wish to find out if you will be charged for the service
and the amount of the fee before you request service. Some
public utilities do not charge for inspection. Some service tech-
nicians do not charge if you purchased your appliance from
them. To know for sure, you need to ask before the technician
comes to your home. Repair work or replacement of appliances
may be necessary to fix the problem that is creating the CO in
your home. Remember, a 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.
Because you’ve provided ventilation by leaving your windows
and doors open, the CO build-up 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 problem is
determined and appropriate repairs are made.
Sometimes it’s Difficult to Find the Source of CO in a Home
It can be difficult for responders to locate the source(s) of CO if:
–The house was ventilated before they arrived and the fresh
air caused the CO to dissipate. The peak level function on
your Kidde CO Alarm helps the responders know how
severe the problem was before they arrived.
–The CO problem was caused by a source that fluctuates on
and off, sometimes creating CO and sometimes not. Such a
situation makes it nearly impossible to pinpoint the source of
CO in a short period of time.
–The cause of CO problem was back drafting – when air in a
chimney or flue is sucked into the home instead of venting
outside. The exact situation that created a negative air pres-
sure inside the home (the cause of back drafting) is difficult
to recreate during an investigation for CO. Sometimes the
CO problem disappears when a door or window is opened.
Back drafting may or may not happen again.
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2520-7203-00.qxd 2006.4.7 3:50 PM Page 21
Technical Information
Product Specifications
Power:
Sensor:
230V AC units: 50 Hz, Current 120 mA max.
CO sensor calibrated at 150 ppm ( 25 ppm).
Temperature: Operating range: 40˚F (4.4˚C) to 100˚F (37.8˚C).
Mounting:
Accessories supplied for wall mount or direct plug
applications.
Alarm:
85+ dB at 10’ @ 3.4 0.5 KHz pulsing alarm. In alarm
condition for CO you will hear a repeating pattern of quick
beeps.
LED Operation: Blinking dot on display denotes normal operation. Display
readings from 30-999 during elevated CO concentrations
Red LED flashes in unison with alarm sounder during alarm
and fault modes.
Green LED is on constantly while the unit is powered with
230 volts and flashes every 15 seconds while on battery
backup.
Yellow LED flashes when the battery is low and is on
constantly when the alarm malfunctions.
Battery Backup:
A 9 volt battery is needed. If battery is low or missing while
the unit is plugged into a 230V outlet, an “Lb” message will
display which will blink alternately with a the CO reading
every second and the sounder will chirp every 15 seconds.
Unit Malfunction:
“Err” error message will display. Intermittent alarm will
sound every 30 seconds.
Test/Reset Button:
Test button verifies proper unit operation and resets the unit
in the event of a CO Alarm.
Peak Level Memory Button:
When pressed, LED will display the highest CO ppm level
detected since unit was powered up or since unit was
reset with test button. Reading will be stored in memory
as long as unit is not reset or unplugged. Any CO concen-
tration detected from 11-999 will be displayed
Size:
15.2 cm (6”)L x 3.75”W x 1.8”H. Wt. 1 lb.
Warranty:
Five-year warranty from date of purchase against defects in
material and workmanship.
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2520-7203-00.qxd 2006.4.7 3:50 PM Page 22
Technical Information
How the Unit Determines When to Alarm
Your Kidde alarm uses advanced technology to monitor the environ-
ment in your home and warn you of certain levels of CO. An internal
microcomputer works together with the sensors inside the alarm to
determine the levels of CO in the air. The microcomputer is calibrated
to trigger the unit’s alarm before most people would experience any
symptoms of CO poisoning.
This Kidde alarm meets the alarm response time
requirements as follows for CO:
At 30 PPM, the unit cannot alarm in less than 120 minutes
At 50 PPM, the unit must alarm within 60-90 minutes
At 100 PPM, the unit must alarm within 10-40 minutes
At 300 PPM, the unit must alarm within 3 minutes.
Accuracy of the Digital Display
Each Kidde CO Alarm is calibrated at a CO concentration of 150 ppm
in air, at 80° F (+/- 10° F) and 40% (+/- 3%) relative humidity.
Depending on the ambient condition (temperature, humidity) and the
condition of the sensor, the alarm readings may vary.
The digital reading tolerances are:
Ambient: 80° F (+/- 10° F), atmospheric pressure +/- 10%, 40% +/- 3%
relative humidity
Reading
0-999 PPM
(Tolerance of display reading)
+/- 20% + 15 ppm
Replacement of the Alarm
This CO alarm has an "operational end of life" feature which will indi-
cate when to replace the alarm.
Seven years after initial power-up, this unit will “chirp” every 30 sec-
onds to indicate that it is time to replace the alarm. A label has been
affixed to the side of the alarm that has “Replace by” date printed on it
to aid in identifying the date of replacement.
REPLACE THE ALARM IMMEDIATELY! IT WILL NOT DETECT CO IN THIS
CONDITION.
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2520-7203-00.qxd 2006.4.7 3:50 PM Page 23
Display Readings
The following tables contain vital information about the vari-
ous readings you may see on your display. We suggest you
keep this User’s Guide handy for reference.
Your new Kidde Carbon Monoxide Alarm is a sophisticated
electronic device – yet very simple to understand. Basically,
the unit will display a “0” if it does not sense CO and if you
have a good 9 volt backup battery installed.
If your alarm senses carbon monoxide, it will display a read-
ing in parts per million of CO.
If the backup battery is low or missing, or if the unit malfunc-
tions it will display other readings (and alarm differently) to
alert you that something is wrong with the alarm.
Please familiarize yourself and other family members to the
difference between a CO reading and a reading signifying a
problem with the alarm itself.
Start-up and Normal Operation Readings
Recommended
Action
Unit
Alarm
Sound
Display Shows
Status
None - unit should
return to zero within
one minute
One short
“chirp”
Self checking
when AC
powered
Brief “888”
Start-up or
reset phase
and low or
missing bat-
tery
One short
“chirp”
every 15
seconds
Install or replace
9 volt battery
refer to page 2
and page 5
“Lb” flashes
alternately with
“0”
Steady “0” and
flashing dot
None
Normal AC oper-
ation ( sensing no
CO and battery is
good)
None
Steady display
of high number
(in the hundreds
of ppm) and
Quick repeating
beep pattern of
4 or 5 beeps
per second
High level of
CO detected
Refer to page
22
flashing dot
If at any time the alarm does not perform as described, have it replaced immediately.
23
2520-7203-00.qxd 2006.4.7 3:50 PM Page 24
Display Readings
Readings You May See When Unit is AC Powered
Alarm
Sound
Unit
Status
Recommended
Action
Display Shows
Call our Kidde cus-
tomer service
department on
01753 685148
Steady “Err
and
flashing dot
“Chirp” every
30 seconds
Unit malfunc-
tioning when
AC powered
Readings You May See When Unit is on Temporary
Battery Backup
Recommended
Alarm
Sound
Unit
Display Shows
Action
Status
Normal battery
only operation unit
will show reading
only if it senses
CO
Plug into AC as
soon as possible
to conserve
None
Flashing dot
battery
Call our Kidde cus-
tomer service
department on
01753 685148
“Chirp” every
30 seconds
Unit malfunctioning
when Battery
powered
Steady “Err
and
flashing dot
Replace Battery
Refer to Step 2
on page 2
“Chirp” every Very low battery-unit
No display
No display
30 seconds
will not respond to
CO
Replace Battery-
if this does not
fix condition,
call our Kidde
Near dead battery
or unit malfunction
Constant Alarm
customer service
department on
01753 685148
If at any time the alarm does not perform as described, have it replaced immediately.
24
2520-7203-00.qxd 2006.4.7 3:50 PM Page 25
Warranty
WARRANTY COVERAGE: THE MANUFACTURER WAR-
RANTS TO THE ORIGINAL CONSUMER PURCHASER,
THAT THIS PRODUCT WILL BE FREE OF DEFECTS IN
MATERIAL AND WORKMANSHIP FOR A PERIOD OF FIVE
(5) YEARS FROM DATE OF PURCHASE EXCLUDING
THE BATTERY. THE MANUFACTURER’S LIABILITY
HEREUNDER IS LIMITED TO REPLACEMENT OF THE
PRODUCT. REPAIR OF THE PRODUCT OR REPLACE-
MENT OF THE PRODUCT WITH REPAIRED PRODUCT AT
THE DISCRETION OF THE MANUFACTURE. THIS WAR-
RANTY IS VOID IF THE PRODUCT HAS BEEN DAMAGED
BY ACCIDENT, UNREASONABLE USE, NEGLECT, TAM-
PERING OR OTHER CAUSES NOT ARISING FROM
DEFECTS IN MATERIAL OR WORKMANSHIP. THIS WAR-
RANTY EXTENDS TO THE ORIGINAL CONSUMER PUR-
CHASER OF THE PRODUCT ONLY.
Warranty Disclaimers: Any implied warranties arising out of
this sale, including but not limited to the implied warranties
of description, merchantability and fitness for a particular
purpose, are limited in duration to the above warranty peri-
od. In no event shall the Manufacturer be liable for loss of
use of this product or for any indirect, special, incidental or
consequential damages, or costs, or expenses incurred by
the consumer or any other user of this product, whether due
to a breach of contract, negligence, strict liability in tort or
otherwise. This warranty does not affect your statutory
rights.
Warranty Performance: During the above warranty period,
your product will be replaced with a comparable product if
the defective product is returned, postage prepaid, to Kidde
Safety Europe Ltd, Mathisen Way, Colnbrook, Slough SL3
0HB. Telephone 01753 685148, together with proof of pur-
chase date. Please include a note describing the problem
when you return the unit. The replacement product will be in
warranty for the remainder of the original warranty period or
for six months, whichever is longer. Other than the cost of
postage, no charge will be made for replacement of the
defective product.
Important: Do not tamper with the alarm unit. Separating
halves of the unit will void the warranty. Your Kidde Carbon
25
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Warranty
Monoxide Alarm is not a substitute for property, disability,
life, or other insurance of any kind. Appropriate insurance
coverage is your responsibility. Consult your insurance
agent.
Kidde makes no warranty, express or implied, written or
oral, including that of merchantability or fitness for any par-
ticular purpose, with respect of the batteries.
For Warranty Service:
In many cases the quickest way to exchange your CO
alarm is to return it to the original place of purchase. If you
have questions, call the Kidde Customer Service
Department on 01753 685148
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2520-7203-00.qxd 2006.4.7 3:50 PM Page 27
QUESTIONS OR FOR MORE INFORMATION
Call our Kidde customer service department on 01753 685148
or contact us at our website at www.kiddesafetyeurope.co.uk
Kidde Safety Europe
Mathisen Way, Colnbrook, SL3 0HB, UK.
©Copyright Walter Kidde Portable Equipment 2005. All Rights Reserved.
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