INTRODUCTION
Thank you for choosing BRK Brands, Inc. for your Smoke Alarm needs. You have purchased a
state-of-the-art Smoke Alarm designed to provide you with early warning of a fire.
Key features include:
Smart Technology designed to help reduce unwanted or nuisance alarms.
Single Button Test/Silence eliminates confusion. Depending on what mode the alarm is
in, pushing the button provides different functions such as testing the alarm, silencing the
alarm, re-testing the alarm when in silence and clearing the Latching feature.
Latching Alarm Indicator easily identifies initiating alarm even after the alarm condition
has subsided.
Perfect Mount System includes a gasketless base for easy installation and a new mounting
bracket that keeps the alarm secure over a wide rotation range to allow for perfect
alignment.
Dust Cover is included to keep the alarm clean during construction.
Easy Installation/Maintenance features include a large opening in the mounting bracket for
easy access to wiring. A battery pull tab keeps the battery fresh until the home is occupied.
A Side Load Battery Drawer allows for easy battery replacement without removing the alarm
from the ceiling or wall (Model 9120B only).
Improved UV Resistance keeps the alarm from discoloring over time.
© 2015 BRK Brands, Inc. All rights reserved. Distributed by BRK Brands, Inc.
3901 Liberty Street Road, Aurora, IL 60504-8122
Consumer Affairs: (800) 323-9005
www.brkelectronics.com • www.firstalert.com
FIRE SAFETY TIPS
Follow safety rules and prevent hazardous situations: 1) Use smoking materials properly.
Never smoke in bed. 2) Keep matches or lighters away from children; 3) Store flammable
materials in proper containers; 4) Keep electrical appliances in good condition and don’t
overload electrical circuits; 5) Keep stoves, barbecue grills, fireplaces and chimneys grease-
and debris-free; 6) Never leave anything cooking on the stove unattended; 7) Keep portable
heaters and open flames, like candles, away from flammable materials; 8) Don’t let rubbish
accumulate.
Keep alarms clean, and test them weekly. Replace alarms immediately if they are not
working properly. Smoke Alarms that do not work cannot alert you to a fire. Keep at least
one working fire extinguisher on every floor, and an additional one in the kitchen. Have fire
escape ladders or other reliable means of escape from an upper floor in case stairs are
blocked.
BEFORE YOU INSTALL THIS SMOKE ALARM
Important! Read “Recommended Locations for Smoke Alarms” and “Locations to Avoid
for Smoke Alarms” before beginning. This unit monitors the air, and when smoke reaches
its sensing chamber, it alarms. It can give you more time to escape before fire spreads.
This unit can ONLY give an early warning of developing fires if it is installed, maintained and
located where smoke can reach it, and where all residents can hear it, as described in this
manual. This unit will not sense gas, heat, or flame. It cannot prevent or extinguish fires.
Understand The Different Type of Smoke Alarms
Battery powered or electrical? Different Smoke Alarms provide different types of
protection. See “About Smoke Alarms” for details.
Know Where To Install Your Smoke Alarms
Fire Safety Professionals recommend at least one Smoke Alarm on every level of your
home, in every bedroom, and in every bedroom hallway or separate sleeping area. See
“Recommended Locations For Smoke Alarms” and “Locations To Avoid For Smoke
Alarms” for details.
Know What Smoke Alarms Can and Can’t Do
A Smoke Alarm can help alert you to fire, giving you precious time to escape. It can
only sound an alarm once smoke reaches the sensor. See “Limitations of Smoke
Alarms” for details.
Check Your Local Building Codes
This Smoke Alarm is designed to be used in a typical single-family home. It alone will not
meet requirements for boarding houses, apartment buildings, hotels or motels. See “Special
Compliance Considerations”
for details.
1
All First Alert
®
and BRK
®
Smoke Alarms conform to regulatory requirements,
including UL217 and are designed to detect particles of combustion. Smoke parti-
cles of varying number and size are produced in all fires.
Ionization technology is generally more sensitive than photoelectric technology
at detecting small particles, which tend to be produced in greater amounts by
flaming fires, which consume combustible materials rapidly and spread quickly.
Sources of these fires may include paper burning in a wastebasket, or a grease
fire in the kitchen.
Photoelectric technology is generally more sensitive than ionization technology at
detecting large particles, which tend to be produced in greater amounts by smol
-
dering fires, which may smolder for hours before bursting into flame. Sources of
these fires may include cigarettes burning in couches or bedding.
For maximum protection, use both types of Smoke Alarms on each level and in every
bedroom of your home.
ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD. Turn off the power to the area where the Smoke
Alarm is installed before removing it from the mounting bracket. Failure to turn off
the power first may result in serious electrical shock, injury or death.
• This unit will not alert hearing impaired residents. It is recommended that
you install special units which use devices like flashing strobe lights to alert
hearing impaired residents.
• Installation of this unit must conform to the electrical codes in your area;
Articles 210 and 300.3 (B) of NFPA 70 (NEC), NFPA 72, NFPA 101; ICC; SBC
(SBCCI); UBC (ICBO); NBC (BOCA); OTFDC (CABO), and any other local or
building codes that may apply. Wiring and installation must be performed by
a licensed electrician. Failure to follow these guidelines may result in injury
or property damage.
• This unit must be powered by a 24-hour, 120V AC pure sine wave 60 Hz
circuit. Be sure the circuit cannot be turned off by a switch, dimmer, or
ground fault circuit interrupter. Failure to connect this unit to a 24-hour
circuit may prevent it from providing constant protection. Unit may be
connected to an arc fault circuit interrupter.
• This Smoke Alarm must have AC or battery power to operate. If the AC
power fails, battery back-up will allow the alarm to sound for at least 4
minutes. If AC power fails and the battery is weak, protection should last for
up to 7 days. If AC power fails and the battery is dead or missing, the alarm
cannot operate.
• Never disconnect the power from an AC powered unit to stop an unwanted
alarm. Doing so will disable the unit and remove your protection. In the case
of a true unwanted alarm open a window or fan the smoke away from the
unit. The alarm will reset automatically when it returns to normal operation.
Never remove the batteries from a battery operated unit to stop an unwanted
alarm (caused by cooking smoke, etc.). Instead open a window or fan the
smoke away from the unit. The alarm will reset automatically.
• Connect this unit ONLY to other compatible units. See “How To Install This
Smoke Alarm” for details. Do not connect it to any other type of alarm or
auxiliary device. Connecting anything else to this unit may damage it or
prevent it from operating properly.
• The battery compartment resists closing unless a battery is installed. This
warns you the unit will not operate under DC power without a battery.
• Do not paint over the unit. Paint may clog the openings to the sensing
chamber and prevent the unit from operating properly.
IMPORTANT! PLEASE READ CAREFULLY AND SAVE
This user’s manual contains important information about your Smoke Alarm’s
operation. If you are installing the Smoke Alarm for use by others, you must leave this
manual — or a copy of it — with the end user.
The Mounting Bracket:
To remove the mounting bracket from the Smoke Alarm base,
hold the Smoke Alarm base firmly and twist the mounting
bracket counterclockwise. The mounting bracket installs onto
the junction box. It has a variety of screw slots to fit most boxes.
The Power Connector:
The power connector plugs into a power input block on the
Smoke Alarm. It supplies the unit with AC power.
• The black wire is “hot.”
• The white wire is neutral.
• The orange wire is used for interconnect.
If you need to remove the power connector, insert a flat screwdriver
blade between the power connector and the security tab inside the
power input block. Gently pry back the tab and pull the connector free.
1
2
3
5
6
4
2
3
9
7
8
The Parts of This Unit
1 Mounting Bracket
2 Mounting Slots
3 Locking Pins (break out of bracket)
4 Hot (Black) AC Wire
5 Neutral (White) AC Wire
6 Interconnect (Orange) Wire
7 Latch to Open Battery Compartment
8 Swing-Out Battery Compartment
9 Quick-Connect Power Connector
The basic installation of this Smoke Alarm is similar whether you want to install one
Smoke Alarm, or interconnect more than one Smoke Alarm. If you are interconnecting
more than one Smoke Alarm, you MUST read “Special Requirements For Interconnected
Smoke Alarms” below before you begin installation.
ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD. Turn off power to the area where you will install this
unit at the circuit breaker or fuse box before beginning installation. Failure to turn off
the power before installation may result in serious electrical shock, injury or death.
1. Using wire nuts, connect the power connector to the household wiring.
Improper wiring of the power connector or the wiring leading to the power
connector will cause damage to the Alarm and may lead to a non-functioning
Alarm.
2. Remove the mounting bracket from the base, and attach it to the junction box.
3. Plug the power connector into the back of the Smoke Alarm.
4. Position the base of the Smoke Alarm over the mounting bracket and turn. The
Alarm will remain secure over a wide rotation range to allow for perfect alignment.
When wall mounting, this will allow fine-tuning on the positioning to compensate
for misaligned wall studs and to keep the wording level. The Alarm can be positioned
over the bracket every 120°. Rotate the Alarm until aligned properly.
5. Check all connections.
ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD. Do not restore power until all Smoke Alarms are
completely installed. Restoring power before installation is complete may result in
serious electrical shock, injury or death.
6. Make sure the Smoke Alarm is receiving AC power. Under normal operation, the
Green power indicator light will shine continuously.
7. If the Green power indicator light does not light, TURN OFF POWER TO THE
JUNCTION BOX and recheck all connections. If all connections are correct and
the Green power indicator still does not light when you restore the power, the unit
should be replaced immediately.
8. Single Station Alarms: Test each Smoke Alarm. Press and hold the Test/Silence
button until the unit alarms.
Interconnected Alarms: Press and hold the Test/Silence button until the unit alarms.
All interconnected Alarms should sound. The other Alarms sounding only tests the
interconnect signal between Alarms. It does not test each Alarm’s operation. You
must test each Alarm individually to check if the Alarm is functioning properly.
If any unit in the series does not alarm, TURN OFF POWER and recheck connections.
If it does not alarm when you restore power, replace it immediately.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERCONNECTED SMOKE ALARMS
• Failure to meet any of the above requirements could damage the units and
cause them to malfunction, removing your protection.
• AC and AC/DC Smoke Alarms can be interconnected. Under AC power, all
units will alarm when one senses smoke. When power is interrupted, only
the AC/DC units in the series will continue to send and receive signals.
AC powered Smoke Alarms will not operate.
Interconnected units can provide earlier warning of fire than stand-alone units, especially
if a fire starts in a remote area of the dwelling. If any unit in the series senses smoke, all
units will alarm. To determine which Smoke Alarm initiated an alarm, see table:
During an Alarm:
On Initiating Alarm(s) Red LED(s) flashes (flash) rapidly
On All Other Alarms Red LED is Off
After an Alarm (Latching):
On Initiating Alarm(s) Green LED(s) On for 2 seconds/Off for 2 seconds
On All Other Alarms Green LED(s) On, Red LED(s) is Off
Compatible Interconnected Units
Interconnect units within a single family residence only. Otherwise all households will
experience unwanted alarms when you test any unit in the series. Interconnected units
will only work if they are wired to compatible units and all requirements are met. This unit
is designed to be compatible with:
First Alert
®
Smoke Alarm Models SA4120, SA4121B, SA100B, SA520 and BRK
®
Smoke
Alarm Models 9120, 9120B, SC6120B, SC9120B, 7010, 7010B, 7010BSL, SC7010B,
SC7010BV, 100S, 4120, 4120B, 4120SB; BRK
®
CO Alarm Models CO5120BN,
CO5120PDBN; BRK
®
Heat Alarm Models HD6135F and HD6135FB; BRK
®
Auxiliary
Devices Models RM3 and RM4 (Relay Modules), SL177 (Strobe Light).
See www.brkelectronics.com for most current interconnect list.
Interconnected units must meet ALL of the following requirements:
• A maximum of 18 compatible units may be interconnected
(Maximum of 12 Smoke Alarms).
• The same fuse or circuit breaker must power all interconnected units.
• The total length of wire interconnecting the units should be less than 1000 feet
(300 meters). This type of wire is commonly available at Hardware and Electrical
Supply stores.
• All wiring must conform to all local electrical codes and NFPA 70 (NEC). Refer
to NFPA 72, NFPA 101, and/or your local building code for further connection
requirements.
HOW TO INSTALL THIS SMOKE ALARM
THE PARTS OF THIS SMOKE ALARM
This Smoke Alarm is designed to be mounted on any standard wiring junction box to a 4-inch (10 cm) size, on either the ceiling or wall. Read “Recommended Locations For Smoke Alarms” and
“Locations to Avoid For Smoke Alarms” before you begin installation. Tools you will need: • Needle-nose pliers or utility knife • Standard Flathead screwdriver.
STAND-ALONE ALARM ONLY:
• Connect the white wire on the power connector to the neutral wire in the junction box.
• Connect the black wire on the power connector to the hot wire in the junction box.
• Tuck the orange wire inside the junction box. It is used for interconnect only.
INTERCONNECTED UNITS ONLY:
Strip off about 1/2” (12 mm) of the plastic coating on the orange wire on the
power connector.
• Connect the white wire on the power connector to the neutral wire in the junction
box.
• Connect the black wire on the power connector to the hot wire in the junction box.
•
Connect the orange wire on the power connector to the interconnect wire in the
junction box. Repeat for each unit you are interconnecting. Never connect the hot
or neutral wires in the junction box to the orange interconnect wire. Never cross hot
and neutral wires between Alarms.
STAND-ALONE ALARM ONLY:
• If you are only installing one Smoke Alarm, restore power to the junction box.
INTERCONNECTED UNITS ONLY:
• If you are interconnecting multiple Smoke Alarms, repeat steps 1-5 for each
Smoke Alarm in the series. When you are finished, restore power to the
junction box.
6
7
8
4
3
1
5
4
3
1
5
2
A
B
}
}
A. Unswitched 120VAC
60 Hz source
B. To additional units; Maximum = 18 total
(Maximum 12 Smoke Alarms)
1. Smoke Alarm
2. Ceiling or Wall
3. Power Connector
4. Wire Nut
5. Junction Box
6. Neutral Wire (Wht)
7. Interconnect Wire
(Orange)
8. Hot Wire (Blk)
FOLLOW THESE INSTALLATION STEPS
Make sure the Alarm is not receiving excessively noisy power. Examples of noisy power could be major appliances on the same circuit, power from a generator or solar power,
light dimmer on the same circuit or mounted near fluorescent lighting. Excessively noisy power may cause damage to your Alarm.
9. For new construction, place supplied dust cover over Alarm to prevent damage from
dust and construction debris. When construction is complete, remove cover.
Smoke will not be able to reach smoke sensor while cover is in place. Cover must
be removed!
2 3 4
LOCKING FEATURES
The locking features are designed to discourage unauthorized removal of the battery or alarm. It is not necessary to activate the locks in single-family households where
unauthorized battery or alarm removal is not a concern.
This alarm has two separate locking features: one to lock the battery compartment, and the other to lock the Smoke Alarm to the mounting bracket. This alarm is shipped
from the factory with the battery drawer locked because it features a 10 year battery backup. Under normal conditions you should not have to replace the battery for the life
of the alarm. If you need to replace the battery follow the UNLOCK THE BATTERY COMPARTMENT instructions below. Re-lock Battery Compartment if desired.
Tools you will need: • Needle-nose pliers or utility knife • Standard Flathead screwdriver.
Both locking features use locking pins, which are molded into the mounting bracket. Using needle nose pliers or a utility knife, remove one or both pins from the
mounting bracket, depending on how many locking features you want to use.
To permanently remove either lock insert a flathead screwdriver between the locking pin and the lock, and pry the pin out of the lock.
Locking Pin
TO UNLOCK THE BATTERY COMPARTMENT
Once the Smoke Alarm is installed, you must disconnect it from the AC power before
unlocking the battery compartment.
ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD. Turn off the power to the area where the Smoke
Alarm is installed before removing it from the mounting bracket. Failure to turn off the
power first may result in serious electrical shock, injury or death.
Always discharge the branch circuit before servicing an AC or AC/DC Smoke Alarm.
First, turn off the AC power at the circuit breaker or fuse box. Next, remove the battery
from Smoke Alarms with battery back-up. Finally, press and hold the test button for 5-10
seconds to discharge the branch circuit.
1. Remove the Smoke Alarm from the mounting bracket. If the unit is locked to the
bracket, see the section “To Unlock the Mounting Bracket.”
2. Disconnect the power connector by gently prying it away from the back of the Smoke
Alarm.
3. Score the area around the locking pin to break the
seal. Insert a flathead screwdriver under the head of
the locking pin or use a needle nose pliers to gently
pry it out of the battery compartment lock. (If you
plan to re-lock the battery compartment, save the
locking pin.)
4. To relock the battery compartment, close the battery
door and reinsert locking pin in lock.
5. Reconnect the power connector to the back of the
Smoke Alarm, reattach the Smoke Alarm to the
mounting bracket, and restore the power.
When replacing the battery, always test the Smoke Alarm before relocking the battery
compartment.
TO UNLOCK THE MOUNTING BRACKET
ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD. Turn off the power to the area where the Smoke
Alarm is installed before removing it from the mounting bracket. Failure to turn off
the power first may result in serious electrical shock, injury or death.
Always discharge the branch circuit before servicing an AC or AC/DC Smoke Alarm.
First, turn off the AC power at the circuit breaker or fuse box. Next, remove the battery
from Smoke Alarms with battery back-up. Finally, press and hold the test button for
5-10 seconds to discharge the branch circuit.
1. Insert a flathead screwdriver between the mounting bracket pin and the mounting
bracket.
2. Pry the Smoke Alarm away from the bracket by turning both the screwdriver and the
Smoke Alarm counterclockwise (left) at the same time.
TO LOCK THE MOUNTING BRACKET
1. Using needle-nose pliers or utility knife,
detach one locking pin from mounting
bracket.
2. Insert the locking pin into the
lock located on the base as shown
in the diagram.
3. When you attach the Smoke
Alarm to the mounting
bracket, the locking pin’s
head will fit into a notch on
the bracket.
Locking Features (Continued)
TO LOCK THE BATTERY COMPARTMENT
Do not lock the battery compartment until you have activated the battery and
tested the battery back-up.
1. Activate the battery back-up by removing the
“Pull to Activate Battery Back-Up” tab.
2. Push and hold test button until the alarm
sounds: 3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps, pause.
If the unit does not alarm during testing, DO
NOT lock the battery compartment! Install a
new battery and test again. If the Smoke Alarm
still does not alarm, replace it immediately.
3. Using needle-nose pliers or a utility knife,
detach one locking pin from the mounting
bracket.
4. Push the locking pin through the black
dot on the label on the back of the Smoke
Alarm.
WEEKLY TESTING
NEVER use an open flame of any kind to test this unit. You might accidentally damage
or set fire to the unit or to your home. The built-in test switch accurately tests the
unit’s operation as required by Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (UL).
DO NOT stand close to the Alarm when the horn is sounding. Exposure at close range
may be harmful to your hearing. When testing, step away when horn starts sounding.
It is important to test this unit every week to make sure it is working properly. Using
the test button is the recommended way to test this Smoke Alarm. Press and hold the
test button on the cover of the unit until the alarm sounds (the unit may continue to alarm
for a few seconds after you release the button). If it does not alarm, make sure the unit is
receiving power and test it again. If it still does not alarm, replace it immediately. During
testing, you will hear a loud, repeating horn pattern: 3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps, pause.
When testing a series of interconnected units you must test each unit individually.
Make sure all units alarm when each one is tested.
REGULAR MAINTENANCE
This unit has been designed to be as maintenance-free as possible, but there are a few
simple things you must do to keep it working properly.
• Test it at least once a week.
• Clean the Smoke Alarm at least once a month; gently vacuum the outside of the
Smoke Alarm using your household vacuum’s soft brush attachment. Test the Smoke
Alarm. Never use water, cleaners or solvents since they may damage the unit.
• If the Smoke Alarm becomes contaminated by excessive dirt, dust and/or grime, and
cannot be cleaned to avoid unwanted alarms, replace the unit immediately.
• Relocate the unit if it sounds frequent unwanted alarms. See “Locations To Avoid For
Smoke Alarms” for details.
• When the battery back-up becomes weak, the Smoke Alarm will “chirp” about once
a minute (the low battery warning). This warning should last 7 days, but you should
replace the battery immediately to continue your protection.
Choosing a replacement battery:
Your Smoke Alarm requires one standard 9V battery. The following batteries are acceptable
as replacements: Duracell #MN1604, (Ultra) #MX1604; Eveready (Energizer) #522, Eveready
(Energizer) #1222. You may also use a Lithium battery like the Ultralife U9VL-J, U9VL-J-P
for longer service life between battery changes. These batteries are available at many
local retail stores.
• Always use the exact batteries specified by this User’s Manual. DO NOT use
rechargeable batteries. Clean the battery contacts and also those of the device
prior to battery installation. Install batteries correctly with regard to polarity
(+ and -).
• Please dispose of or recycle used batteries properly, following any local
regulations. Consult your local waste management authority or recycling
organization to find an electronics recycling facility in your area. DO NOT
DISPOSE OF
BATTERIES IN FIRE. BATTERIES MAY EXPLODE OR LEAK.
• Keep battery out of reach of children. In the event a battery is swallowed,
immediately contact your poison control center, your physician, or the National
Battery Ingestion hotline at 202-625-3333 as serious injury may occur
Actual battery service life depends on the Smoke Alarm and the environment in which it is
installed. All the batteries specified above are acceptable replacement batteries for this unit.
Regardless of the manufacturer’s suggested battery life, you MUST replace the battery
immediately once the unit starts “chirping” (the “low battery warning”).
UNDERSTANDING THE INDICATOR LIGHTS AND
ALARM HORN PATTERNS
Condition LED (Red or Green
Lights)
Horn
Normal Operation
(AC Power)
Green LED ON; flashing
Red LED once/ minute
No Audible Alarm
DURING TESTING Red LED flashes
once every second
Horn pattern:
3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps,
pause
LOW OR MISSING
BATTERY (9120B only)
Red LED flashes
once/minute
Horn “chirps”
once/minute
Normal Operation
(DC Power – 9120B only)
Green LED OFF; Red LED
flashes once/minute
No Audible Alarm
ALARM CONDITION
Smoke Initiating Device
Red LED flashes
rapidly on the unit
that triggered the
Alarm.
Horn pattern:
3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps,
pause repeating on all
Alarms
ALARM CONDITION
Interconnect Alarm
Red LED on the
other Alarms in an
interconnected series
will be OFF.
Horn pattern:
3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps,
pause repeating on all
Alarms
IN SILENCE MODE Red LED flashes
once every 10
seconds
Horn remains silent for
up to 10 minutes. Horn
will sound if smoke levels
increase.
“LATCHING” ALARM
INDICATOR
Green LED ON for
2 seconds/OFF for
2 seconds,
repeatedly until
reset, on initiating
unit(s).
Horn remains silent
IF THIS SMOKE ALARM SOUNDS, Continued
WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF FIRE
• Don’t panic; stay calm. Follow your family escape plan.
• Get out of the house as quickly as possible. Don’t stop to get dressed or collect
anything.
• Feel doors with the back of your hand before opening them. If a door is cool, open
it slowly. Don’t open a hot door. Keep doors and windows closed, unless you must
escape through them.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a cloth (preferably damp). Take short, shallow breaths.
• Meet at your planned meeting place outside your home, and do a head count to make
sure everybody got out safely.
• Call the Fire Department as soon as possible from outside. Give your address, then
your name.
• Never go back inside a burning building for any reason.
• Contact your Fire Department for ideas on making your home safer.
Alarms have various limitations. See “Limitations of Smoke Alarms” for details.
IF THIS SMOKE ALARM SOUNDS
RESPONDING TO AN ALARM
During an alarm, you will hear a loud, repeating horn pattern: 3 beeps, pause,
3 beeps, pause.
• If the unit alarms and you are not testing the unit, it is warning you of a
potentially dangerous situation that requires your immediate attention.
NEVER ignore any alarm. Ignoring the alarm may result in injury or death.
• Never disconnect the AC power to quiet an unwanted alarm. Disconnecting
the power disables the Alarm so it cannot sense smoke. This will remove your
protection. Instead open a window or fan the smoke away from the unit.
The alarm will reset automatically.
• If the unit alarms get everyone out of the house immediately.
• ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD: Attempting to disconnect the power connector
from the unit when the power is on may result in electrical shock, serious injury
or death.
When an interconnected system of AC powered units is in alarm, the alarm indicator light on
the unit(s) that initiated the alarm will blink rapidly. It will remain OFF on any remaining units.
If the unit alarms and you are certain that the source of smoke is not a fire—cooking smoke
or an extremely dusty furnace, for example—open a nearby window or door and fan the
smoke away from the unit. Use the Silence Feature to silence the alarm. This will silence the
alarm, and once the smoke clears the unit will reset itself automatically.
5
“LATCHING ALARM” INDICATOR
IF YOU SUSPECT A PROBLEM
Smoke Alarms may not operate properly because of dead, missing or weak batteries, a
build-up of dirt, dust or grease on the Smoke Alarm cover, or installation in an improper
location. Clean the Smoke Alarm as described in “Regular Maintenance,” and install a fresh
battery, then test the Smoke Alarm again. If it fails to test properly when you use the Test/
Silence button, or if the problem persists, replace the Smoke Alarm immediately.
• If you hear a “chirp” once a minute, replace the battery.
• If you experience frequent non-emergency alarms (like those caused by cooking
smoke), try relocating the Smoke Alarm.
• If the alarm sounds when no smoke is visible, try cleaning or relocating the
Smoke Alarm. The cover may be dirty.
• If the alarm does not sound during testing, make sure it is receiving AC power
from the household current.
Always discharge the branch circuit before servicing an AC or AC/DC Smoke Alarm.
First, turn off the AC power at the circuit breaker or fuse box. Next, remove the battery
from Smoke Alarms with battery back-up. Finally, press and hold the test button for
5-10 seconds to discharge the branch circuit.
Do not try fixing the alarm yourself – this will void your warranty!
If the Smoke Alarm is still not operating properly, and it is still under warranty, please see
“How to Obtain Warranty Service” in the Limited Warranty.
RECOMMENDED LOCATIONS FOR SMOKE ALARMS
Installing Smoke Alarms in Single-Family Residences
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), recommends one Smoke Alarm on every
floor, in every sleeping area, and in every bedroom. In new construction, the Smoke Alarms
must be AC powered and interconnected. See “Agency Placement Recommendations” for
details. For additional coverage, it is recommended that you install a Smoke Alarm in all
rooms, halls, storage areas, finished attics, and basements, where temperatures normally
remain between 40˚ F (4.4˚ C) and 100˚ F (37.8˚ C). Make sure no door or other obstruction
could keep smoke from reaching the Smoke Alarms.
More specifically, install Smoke Alarms:
• On every level of your home, including finished attics and basements.
• Inside every bedroom, especially if people sleep with the door partly or completely closed.
• In the hall near every sleeping area. If your home has multiple sleeping areas, install a unit
in each. If a hall is more than 40 feet (12 meters) long, install a unit at each end.
• At the top of the first-to-second floor stairway, and at the bottom of the basement stairway.
Specific requirements for Smoke Alarm installation vary from state to state and from region
to region. Check with your local Fire Department for current requirements in your area. It is
recommended AC or AC/DC units be interconnected for added protection.
GARAGE
BEDROOM
BEDROOM
HALL
LIVING ROOM
KITCHEN
BASEMENT
BEDROOM
LATCHING ALARM:
Unit was exposed
to alarm levels of Smoke
LATCHING NOT ACTIVATED:
Unit was not exposed
to alarm levels of Smoke
KEY:
The Latching Alarm Indicator is automatically activated after an Alarm is exposed to
alarm levels of smoke. After smoke levels drop below alarm levels, the green LED will be
On for 2 seconds/Off for 2 seconds, repeatedly. This feature helps emergency responders,
investigators, or service technicians identify which unit(s) in your home were exposed to
alarm levels of smoke after the condition has subsided. The Latching Alarm Indicator stays
ON until you reset it by pressing the Test/Silence button. The Latching Alarm Indicator is
also reset when AC and DC power is removed from the Alarm.
USING THE SILENCE FEATURE
The Silence Feature on this unit can temporarily quiet an unwanted alarm for up to 10 minutes.
The Silence Feature does not disable the unit—it makes it temporarily less sensitive
to smoke. For your safety, if smoke around the unit is dense enough to suggest a
potentially dangerous situation, the unit will stay in alarm or may re-alarm quickly.
If you do not know the source of the smoke, do not assume it is an unwanted alarm.
Not responding to an alarm can result in property loss, injury, or death. If the unit will
not silence and no heavy smoke is present, or if it stays in silence mode continuously,
it should be replaced immediately.
To silence Smoke Alarms in an interconnected series:
1. To silence multiple alarms in an interconnected series, you must press the Test/Silence
button on the unit(s) that initiated the alarm.
NOTE: The red LED on the initiating alarm will flash rapidly. The red LED will be Off on
all other non-initiating alarms. No audible sound will be heard. The unit will exit “silence
mode” in approximately 10 minutes.
2. While the unit is in “silence mode”, pressing and holding the Test/Silence button for
approximately 10 seconds will test the unit. After testing, the unit will re-enter “silence
mode” and the 10-minute timer is reset.
6
Printed in Mexico
M08-0134-010 K1 01/15
BRK
®
is a registered trademark of BRK Brands, Inc.
First Alert
®
is a registered trademark of the First Alert Trust.
USER’S MANUAL
Smoke Alarms
AC Powered Smoke Alarms
120V AC ~, 60 Hz, 0.04A
Model 9120B
with 10 year Battery
Backup
Printed in Mexico
M08-0134-010 K1 01/15
CONFORMS TO
UL STD 217
IONIZATION
Model
9120B
• In air streams near kitchens. Air currents can draw cooking smoke into the sensing
chamber of a Smoke Alarm near the kitchen.
• In very damp, humid or steamy areas, or directly near bathrooms with showers.
Keep units at least 10 feet (3 meters) away from showers, saunas, dishwashers, etc.
• Where the temperatures are regularly below 40˚ F (4.4˚ C) or above 100˚ F (37.8˚ C)
including unheated buildings, outdoor rooms, porches, or unfinished attics or
basements.
• In very dusty, dirty, or greasy areas. Do not install a Smoke Alarm directly over the
stove or range. Clean a laundry room unit frequently to keep it free of dust or lint.
• Near fresh air vents, ceiling fans, or in very drafty areas. Drafts can blow smoke away
from the unit, preventing it from reaching sensing chamber.
• In insect infested areas. Insects can clog openings to the sensing chamber and cause
unwanted alarms.
• Less than 12 inches (305 mm) away from fluorescent lights. Electrical “noise” can
interfere with the sensor.
• In “dead air” spaces. “Dead air” spaces may prevent smoke from reaching the Smoke
Alarm.
AVOIDING DEAD AIR SPACES
“Dead air” spaces may prevent smoke from reaching the Smoke Alarm. To avoid dead air
spaces, follow the installation recommendations below.
On ceilings, install Smoke Alarms as close to the center of the ceiling as possible. If this is
not possible, install the Smoke Alarm at least 4 inches (102 mm) from the wall or corner.
For wall mounting (if allowed by building codes), the top edge of Smoke Alarms should be
placed between 4 inches (102 mm) and 12 inches (305 mm) from the wall/ceiling line, below
typical “dead air” spaces.
On a peaked, gabled, or cathedral ceiling, install the first Smoke Alarm within 3 feet (0.9
meters) of the peak of the ceiling, measured horizontally. Additional Smoke Alarms may be
required depending on the length, angle, etc. of the ceiling’s slope. Refer to NFPA 72 for
details on requirements for sloped or peaked ceilings.
LIMITED WARRANTY
BRK Brands, Inc., (“BRK”) the maker of BRK
®
brand and First Alert
®
brand products,
warrants that for a period of ten years from the date of purchase, this product will be free
from defects in material and workmanship. BRK, at its option, will repair or replace this
product or any component of the product found to be defective during the warranty
period. Replacement will be made with a new or remanufactured product or component.
If the product is no longer available, replacement may be made with a similar product of
equal or greater value. This is your exclusive warranty.
This warranty is valid for the original retail purchaser from the date of initial retail
purchase and is not transferable. Keep the original sales receipt. Proof of purchase is
required to obtain warranty performance. BRK dealers, service centers, or retail stores
selling BRK products do not have the right to alter, modify or any way change the terms
and conditions of this warranty.
This warranty does not cover normal wear of parts or damage resulting from any of the
following: negligent use or misuse of the product, use on improper voltage or current, use
contrary to the operating instructions, disassembly, repair or alteration by anyone other
than BRK or an authorized service center. Further, the warranty does not cover Acts of
God, such as fire, flood, hurricanes and tornadoes or any batteries that are included with
this unit.
BRK shall not be liable for any incidental or consequential damages caused by the
breach of any express or implied warranty. Except to the extent prohibited by applicable
law, any implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose is limited
in duration to the duration of the above warranty. Some states, provinces or jurisdictions
do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages or
limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitations or exclusion
may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also
have other rights that vary from state to state or province to province.
How to Obtain Warranty Service
Service: If service is required, do not return the product to your retailer. In order to obtain
warranty service, contact the Consumer Affairs Division at 1-800-323-9005, 7:30 AM
- 5:00 PM Central Standard Time, Monday through Friday. To assist us in serving you,
please have the model number and date of purchase available when calling.
For Warranty Service return to: BRK Brands, Inc., 25 Spur Drive, El Paso, TX 79906
Battery: BRK Brands, Inc. make no warranty, express or implied, written or oral, including
that of merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose with respect to battery.
SPECIAL COMPLIANCE CONSIDERATIONS
This Smoke Alarm is suitable for use in apartments, condominiums, townhouses, hospitals,
day care facilities, health care facilities, boarding houses, group homes and dormitories
provided a primary fire detection system already exists to meet fire detection requirements
in common areas like lobbies, hallways, or porches. Using this Smoke Alarm in common
areas may not provide sufficient warning to all residents or meet local fire protection
ordinances/regulations.
This Smoke Alarm alone is not a suitable substitute for complete fire detection systems
in places housing many people—like apartment buildings, condominiums, hotels, motels,
dormitories, hospitals, health care facilities, nursing homes, day care facilities, or group
homes of any kind. It is not a suitable substitute for complete fire detection systems in
warehouses, industrial facilities, commercial buildings, and special-purpose non-residential
buildings which require special fire detection and alarm systems. Depending on the building
codes in your area, this Smoke Alarm may be used to provide additional protection in
these facilities.
In new construction, most building codes require the use of AC or AC/DC powered Smoke
Alarms only. In existing construction, AC, AC/DC, or DC powered Smoke Alarms can
be used as specified by local building codes. Refer to NFPA 72 (National Fire Alarm and
Signaling Code) and NFPA 101 (Life Safety Code), local building codes, or consult your
Fire Department for detailed fire protection requirements in buildings not defined as
“households”.
LIMITATIONS OF SMOKE ALARMS
Smoke Alarms have played a key role in reducing deaths resulting from home fires
worldwide. However, like any warning device, Smoke Alarms can only work if they are
properly located, installed, and maintained, and if smoke reaches the Alarms. They are not
foolproof.
Smoke alarms may not waken all individuals. Practice the escape plan at least twice a
year, making sure that everyone is involved – from kids to grandparents. Allow children to
master fire escape planning and practice before holding a fire drill at night when they are
sleeping. If children or others do not readily waken to the sound of the smoke alarm, or if
there are infants or family members with mobility limitations, make sure that someone is
assigned to assist them in fire drill and in the event of an emergency. It is recommended
that you hold a fire drill while family members are sleeping in order to determine their
response to the sound of the smoke alarm while sleeping and to determine whether they
may need assistance in the event of an emergency.
Smoke Alarms cannot work without power. Battery operated units cannot work if the
batteries are missing, disconnected or dead, if the wrong type of batteries are used, or if the
batteries are not installed correctly. AC units cannot work if the AC power is cut off for any
reason (open fuse or circuit breaker, failure along a power line or at a power station, electrical
fire that burns the electrical wires, etc.). If you are concerned about the limitations of battery
or AC power, install both types of units.
Smoke Alarms cannot detect fires if the smoke does not reach the Alarms. Smoke from
fires in chimneys or walls, on roofs, or on the other side of closed doors may not reach the
sensing chamber and set off the Alarm. That is why one unit should be installed inside each
bedroom or sleeping area—especially if bedroom or sleeping area doors are closed at night—
and in the hallway between them.
Smoke Alarms may not detect fire on another floor or area of the dwelling. For example,
a stand-alone unit on the second floor may not detect smoke from a basement fire until the
fire spreads. This may not give you enough time to escape safely. That is why recommended
minimum protection is at least one unit in every sleeping area, and every bedroom on every
level of your dwelling. Even with a unit on every floor, stand-alone units may not provide as
much protection as interconnected units, especially if the fire starts in a remote area. Some
safety experts recommend installing interconnected AC powered units with battery back-up
(see “About Smoke Alarms”) or professional fire detection systems, so if one unit senses
smoke, all units alarm. Interconnected units may provide earlier warning than stand-alone
units since all units alarm when one detects smoke.
Smoke Alarms may not be heard. Though the alarm horn in this unit meets or exceeds
current standards, it may not be heard if: 1) the unit is located outside a closed or partially
closed door, 2) residents recently consumed alcohol or drugs, 3) the Alarm is drowned out
by noise from stereo, TV, traffic, air conditioner or other appliances, 4) residents are hearing
impaired or sound sleepers. Special purpose units, like those with visual and audible alarms,
should be installed for hearing impaired residents.
Smoke Alarms may not have time to alarm before the fire itself causes damage,
injury, or death, since smoke from some fires may not reach the unit immediately.
Examples of this include persons smoking in bed, children playing with matches, or
fires caused by violent explosions resulting from escaping gas.
Smoke Alarms are not foolproof. Like any electronic device, Smoke Alarms are made of
components that can wear out or fail at any time. You must test the unit weekly to ensure
your continued protection. Smoke Alarms cannot prevent or extinguish fires. They are not a
substitute for property or life insurance.
Smoke Alarms have a limited life. The unit should be replaced immediately if it is not
operating properly. You should always replace a Smoke Alarm after 10 years from date of
purchase. Write the purchase date on the space provided on back of unit.
ABOUT SMOKE ALARMS
Battery (DC) operated Smoke Alarms: Provide protection even when electricity fails,
provided the batteries are fresh and correctly installed. Units are easy to install, and do not
require professional installation. However, they do not provide interconnected functionality.
AC powered Smoke Alarms: Can be interconnected so if one unit senses smoke, all
units alarm. They do not operate if electricity fails. AC with battery (DC) back-up: will
operate if electricity fails, provided the batteries are fresh and correctly installed. AC and
AC/DC units must be installed by a qualified electrician.
Wireless Interconnected Alarms: Offer the same interconnected functionality as with
hardwired alarms, without wires. Units are easy to install and do not require professional
installation. They provide protection even when electricity fails, provided the batteries are
fresh and correctly installed.
Smoke Alarms for Solar or Wind Energy users and battery backup power systems:
AC powered Smoke Alarms should only be operated with true or pure sine wave inverters.
Operating this Smoke Alarm with most battery-powered UPS (uninterruptible power supply)
products or square wave or “quasi sine wave” inverters will damage the Alarm. If you are
not sure about your inverter or UPS type, please consult with the manufacturer to verify.
Smoke Alarms for the hearing impaired: Special purpose Smoke Alarms should be
installed for the hearing impaired. They include a visual alarm and an audible alarm horn,
and meet the requirements of the Americans With Disabilities Act. These units can be
interconnected so if one unit senses smoke, all units alarm.
Smoke alarms are not to be used with detector guards unless the combination has
been evaluated and found suitable for that purpose.
All these Smoke Alarms are designed to provide early warning of fires if located, installed and
cared for as described in the user’s manual, and if smoke reaches the Alarm. If you are unsure
which type of unit to install, refer to NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) 72 (National
Fire Alarm and Signaling Code) and NFPA 101 (Life Safety Code). National Fire Protection
Association, One Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269-9101.
Local building codes may
also require specific units in new construction or in different areas of the home.
LOCATIONS TO AVOID FOR SMOKE ALARMS, Continued
LOCATIONS TO AVOID FOR SMOKE ALARMS
For best performance, AVOID installing Smoke Alarms in these areas:
• Where combustion particles are produced. Combustion particles form when something
burns. Areas to avoid include poorly ventilated kitchens, garages, and furnace rooms.
Keep units at least 20 feet (6 meters) from the sources of combustion particles (stove,
furnace, water heater, space heater) if possible. In areas where a 20-foot (6 meter)
distance is not possible – in modular, mobile, or smaller homes, for example – it is
recommended the Smoke Alarm be placed as far from these fuel-burning sources as
possible. The placement recommendations are intended to keep these Alarms at a
reasonable distance from a fuel-burning source, and thus reduce “unwanted” alarms.
Unwanted alarms can occur if a Smoke Alarm is placed directly next to a fuel-burning
source. Ventilate these areas as much as possible.
Continued...
AGENCY PLACEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS
NFPA 72 Chapter 29
“For “For your information, the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, NFPA 72, reads
as follows:”
29.5.1* Required Detection.
29.5.1.1* Where required by other governing laws, codes, or standards for a specific type
of occupancy, approved single and multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed as
follows:
(1)*In all sleeping rooms and guest rooms
(2)* Outside of each separate dwelling unit sleeping area, within 21 ft (6.4 m) of any door
to a sleeping room, with the distance measured along a path of travel
(3) On every level of a dwelling unit, including basements
(4) On every level of a residential board and care occupancy (small facility), including
basements and excluding crawl spaces and unfinished attics
(5)*In the living area(s) of a guest suite
(6) In the living area(s) of a residential board and care occupancy (small facility)
(Reprinted with permission from NFPA 72
®
, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code
Copyright © 2010 National Fire Protection Association, Quincy, MA 02269. This reprinted
material is not the complete and official position of the National Fire Protection Association,
on the referenced subject which is represented only by the standard in its entirety),
(National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code
®
and NFPA 72
®
are registered trademarks of the
National Fire Protection Association, Inc., Quincy, MA 02269).
California State Fire Marshal (CSFM)
Early warning detection is best achieved by the installation of fire detection equipment in all
rooms and areas of the household as follows: A Smoke Alarm installed in each separate
sleeping area (in the vicinity, but outside bedrooms), and Heat or Smoke Alarms in the living
rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, hallways, finished attics, furnace rooms, closets,
utility and storage rooms, basements, and attached garages.
continued...
