This document is a user manual for Kidde Smoke Alarms, specifically models i12020ACA, i12040ACA, and PE120CA. It provides comprehensive instructions for installation, operation, maintenance, and fire safety, emphasizing the importance of these devices as part of a home safety plan.
The Kidde Smoke Alarm is designed to detect products of combustion, providing an early warning in the event of a fire. Models i12020ACA and i12040ACA utilize ionization sensing technology, which is effective at detecting invisible fire particles associated with fast flaming fires. The PE120CA model is a photoelectric type, which is generally more effective at detecting visible fire particles associated with slow smoldering fires. For maximum protection, Kidde recommends installing both ionization and photoelectric alarms.
These smoke alarms can function as single-station units or be interconnected with up to 24 other compatible Kidde devices, including other smoke alarms, smoke/CO alarms, CO alarms, relay modules, heat alarms, and strobe lights. This interconnectivity allows for a synchronized alarm system where all connected units sound an alarm if one detects smoke, enhancing early notification throughout the home.
Function Description
The primary function of the Kidde Smoke Alarm is to detect smoke and alert occupants with a loud (85 decibels) alarm. This early warning is crucial for allowing occupants to escape safely during a fire.
For models i12020ACA and i12040ACA, the ionization sensor chamber detects combustion products. When smoke particles enter the chamber, they disrupt the ionization current, triggering the alarm horn. The PE120CA model, being photoelectric, detects smoke by sensing light scattering caused by smoke particles.
The alarms are equipped with both red and green LED indicators to communicate their status. A green LED indicates the presence of AC power, confirming the unit is operating from its primary power source. The red LED has multiple modes of operation:
- Standby Condition: The red LED flashes every 40 seconds, indicating that the smoke alarm is operating properly.
- Alarm Condition: When smoke is detected, the red LED flashes once per second, accompanying the pulsating alarm sound. This continues until the air is cleared. In an interconnected system, only the red LED of the originating alarm (the one that sensed the smoke or is being tested) will flash, while all other interconnected units will sound the alarm without their red LEDs flashing.
- Alarm Memory (Models i12020ACA and i12040ACA only): This feature provides a visual indication if an alarm has been activated. The red LED will illuminate for approximately 1.5 seconds every 20 seconds to indicate the memory condition. This memory remains active until the test button is pressed to reset it or it times out after 11 to 13 hours. It also resets if the battery voltage drops to 8 Volts DC or if AC power is absent. In an interconnected setup, only the memory of the originating alarm is activated.
- Hush® mode (Models i12020ACA and i12040ACA only): When in Hush® mode, the red LED illuminates for 1.5 seconds every 10 seconds, indicating that the smoke alarm is temporarily desensitized.
Usage Features
- AC Power with Battery Backup: Models i12040ACA and PE120CA operate on 120 V AC power and include a 9 V battery backup. This ensures continuous operation even during AC power failures. The battery lockout feature prevents the battery door from closing if a battery is not installed correctly, ensuring the unit is never left without backup power.
- Hush™ Feature (Models i12020ACA and i12040ACA only): This feature allows for temporary desensitization of the alarm circuit for approximately 8 minutes. It is particularly useful in areas prone to nuisance alarms, such as kitchens, where normal cooking activities might trigger the alarm. By pressing the "TEST / HUSH" button, the alarm can be silenced temporarily. The red LED will flash every 10 seconds for 8 minutes to indicate this mode. The alarm automatically resets after 8 minutes or can be manually reset by pressing the Test/Hush button again. Dense smoke will override the Hush® feature, sounding a continuous alarm regardless.
- Test Button: A prominent test button is located on the alarm cover. Pressing and holding this button for at least 5 seconds (or until the alarm sounds) tests the electronic circuitry, horn, and battery (for battery backup models). This weekly test is crucial to ensure the alarm is functioning correctly.
- Tamper-Resist Locking Pin: A tamper-resist locking pin is provided to deter unauthorized removal of the alarm from its mounting plate, especially useful in households with children. The pin is inserted into a hole on the side of the alarm after installation. To remove the alarm for battery replacement or servicing, this pin must first be removed using long-nose pliers.
Maintenance Features
- Weekly Testing: Regular testing of the smoke alarm is required to ensure proper operation. This involves pressing the Test button as described above.
- Battery Replacement (Models i12040ACA and PE120CA): These models feature a low/missing battery monitor circuit that causes the alarm to "chirp" approximately every 30-40 seconds for at least seven days when the battery is low. This audible warning indicates that the 9 V battery needs to be replaced. The manual provides a list of recommended 9-volt carbon-zinc, alkaline, and lithium batteries. It is recommended to replace the battery at least once a year, or at the same time clocks are changed for daylight saving time.
- Smoke Sensing Chamber Operation Chirp: If abnormal operation of the smoke-sensing chamber is detected, the alarm will emit a "chirp" approximately 20 seconds after the red LED flash. This indicates a potential malfunction, and the alarm should be replaced if this condition occurs.
- Cleaning: While not explicitly detailed as a maintenance feature, the manual advises against installing alarms in excessively dusty, dirty, or greasy areas, as dust particles can cause nuisance alarms or failure to alarm. This implies that keeping the alarm clean is important for its proper functioning.
- End-of-Life Replacement: Alarms that fail an alarm test, do not operate normally, or are more than 10 years old must be replaced.
- Non-Repairable Unit: The manual explicitly states, "Do not try to repair the smoke alarm yourself." For service, users are directed to the Warranty section or to contact Kidde Customer Service. The unit is sealed, and the cover is not removable.
The manual also provides detailed guidance on recommended and prohibited installation locations, wiring instructions for both single and multiple station setups, and important fire safety habits, including developing and practicing an escape plan. It highlights that smoke alarms are an important part of a home safety plan but are not a substitute for an insurance policy or other safety measures.
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