Smoke Alarm Reviews

Review: First Alert Battery Powered, Wireless Interconnectable Smoke Alarm (SA500B)

Friday, March 5th, 2010

Wireless-Enabled Battery Powered Smoke Alarm

This battery powered smoke alarm offers one of the quickest solutions for setting up an interconnected smoke alarm system. First Alert’s innovative OneLink system allows you to easily setup a network of smoke alarms wirelessly, saving time and money.

Alarms that communicate with each other may provide earlier warning of a potential danger as compared to single stand alone alarms. With the ease of wireless connectivity you can have a network of alarms setup in minutes.

Features:

Wireless-Enabled Battery Powered Smoke Alarm
• Ease of Wireless Connectivity
• Cost Effective Versus Hardwiring

Technical Specifications:

• Detector Type: Smoke
• Sensor Type: Photoelectric
• Power Source: Battery Powered
• Feature: One Link Wireless Inter-connectivity
• Interconnection: Up to 18 units with Smoke, Carbon Monoxide, Heat Alarms and Relays. Maximum 12 Smoke Alarms. (Can be used with BRK)
• Temperature Range: 40°F to 100°F
• Humidity Range: 10% to 95% Relative Humidity
• Certifications: Meets UL217, ETL listed

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First Alert Battery Powered Smoke and Fire Alarm with Escape Light (Model#SA304CN3)

Tuesday, March 2nd, 2010

Smoke alarm with escape light to illuminate a path to safety if unit alarms. Silence/Test button tests alarm functions and silences nuisance alarms. Front access battery drawer swings out for easy battery replacement without removing alarm from the ceiling.

Features:

• New contemporary ergonomic design
• Super-bright Escape Light beam lights your way to safety
• Remote Flashlight test feature allows testing without standing on ladder or chair
• 2 batteries included
• Hinged cover allows easy battery replacement
• Replaces old model# SA150
• Also sells as SA304CN3

Warranty: Limited 5 year warranty through the manufacturer

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How to Prevent Explosive Gas

Monday, March 1st, 2010

Given the recent cold and snowy weather across the country, and potentially weeks of more winter on the way – this is a good time to remind your readers about the dangers of explosive gas and how to prevent potentially deadly accidents that can result.

What are explosive gases?
• Natural gas
• Methane
• Propane
• Carbon Monoxide

Where do these gases come from?
• Most of these gases come from gas appliances and heating sources like water heaters and furnaces in the home.
• One of the primary sources is a gas furnace, which, according to Consumer Reports is in majority of new construction homes.

What tools can help?
• The GCO1CN combination gas and carbon monoxide detector by First Alert is available for $54.99 at local hardware stores and national retailers. It can detect explosive gases like natural gas, methane, propane and invisible, odorless gases like carbon monoxide. The GC01CN is an inexpensive tool that helps guard against accidents that unfortunately happen every year.
• In addition to a detector, it’s important to have appliances inspected periodically by a professional to look for malfunctioning parts and/or leaks.

Review: BRK Plug-in Carbon Monoxide Alarm with 9V Battery Backup and Digital Display (BRK #CO614B)

Wednesday, February 24th, 2010

Digital Display: shows visual confirmation of CO levels in PPM

The BRK Model (CO614B) Carbon Monoxide detector provides maximum safety with the ease of plugging the unit into a standard non-switched outlet; no messy wiring necessary. The Plug-In CO Alarm features an electrochemical CO sensor, an 85dB horn, an End of Life signal, a single button for test/silence and LED power indicator. Like most standard battery powered alarms, the detector will chirp when the batteries need to be replaced. The CO614B also features a digital display that shows visual confirmation of CO levels and has Peak Level Memory.

Features:
• Electrochemical Carbon Monoxide Sensor: the most accurate sensor available as compared to other sensing technologies
• Single Button Test/Silence
• Battery Backup
• Two silence features: can silence the low-battery chirp for up to eight hours or temporarily silence an unwanted nuisance alarm
• Digital Display: shows visual confirmation of CO levels in PPM
• Peak Level Recall Button: recalls the highest level of Carbon Monoxide detected
• 5-Year Limited Warranty Through the Manufacturer

Technical Specifications:
• Alarm Dimensions: 5.9″ H x 3.6″ L x 1.5″ D
• Operating Voltage: 120V AC 60Hz w/ 9V battery backup
• Operating Current: .09 amps (standby/alarm)
• Temperature Range: 40° F (4° C) to 100° F (38° C)
• Humidity Range: 10% to 95% relative humidity (RH)
• Audio Alarm: 85dB at 10 feet• Test/Silence: Electronically simulates carbon monoxide condition, causing the unit to alarm
• Alarm Reset: Automatic when CO clears
• Interconnections: Up to 18 units of First Alert or BRK Smoke, CO and Heat Alarms. Maximum of 12 smoke alarms.
• CO Sensor: Electrochemical
• Indicator Lights/Sounds:
• AC Power: Constant Red LED; Display: blank
• DC Power: Intermittent Red LED; Display: “bAt”
• Local Alarm: Red LED flashes rapidly; Display: CO level in PPM
• Listing: Listed to UL2034 Standard

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Review: BRK 120V Hardwired Photoelectric Smoke/Carbon Monoxide Alarm with Voice and Battery Backup (Model#SC7010BV)

Monday, February 22nd, 2010

Exclusive voice alarm with programmable location; programmable with up to eleven locations

The BRK (SC7010BV) hardwired with battery backup smoke/CO combo detector features a photoelectric smoke sensing chamber, electrochemical Carbon Monoxide sensor, 85dB horn, single button test/silence, an easy access battery drawer, dust cover and voice warning with location. The voice feature speaks one of 11 pre-programmed location and detected dangers, such as, if the unit is programmed for garage; it will speak “Warning, evacuate, smoke in garage”. The Spread Spectrum Horn Tone has a lower and varying frequency that makes it easier for the elderly with normal age related hearing loss to hear the horn. The unit also features an Alarm Latch (identifies the initiating alarm) and Low Battery Latch (identifies which unit is in low battery condition by blinking the green power light). The OptiPath360 Technology allows 360 coverage to the layers of air around the ceiling and wall.

Features:
• Exclusive voice alarm with programmable location; programmable with up to eleven locations
• Single button test/silence
• Two silence features: can silence the low-battery chirp for up to eight hours or temporarily silence an unwanted nuisance alarm
• Optipath 360 Technology: patented technology provides 360 degrees of direct access to the smoke sensor
• Perfect Mount: allows for easy alignment of alarm
• Spread Spectrum Horn Tone: lower and varying frequency makes it easier for the elderly with normal aged related hearing loss to hear the horn
• Latching Features: alarm latch • remembers which unit initiated an alarm
• Low Battery Latch: visually identifies unit in low battery condition
• Dust Cover
• Easy Installation/Maintenance

Technical Specifications:
• Alarm Dimensions: 5.0″ dia x 2.0″ H
• Operating Voltage: 120V AC 60Hz with two 1.5V AA battery backup
• Operating Current: .05 amps (standby/alarm)
• Temperature Range: 40° F (4° C) to 100° F (38° C)
• Humidity Range: 10 % to 95 % relative humidity (RH)
• Audio Alarm: 85dB at 10 feet
• Voice Output: Choice of 11 pre-programmed locations warns of smoke or CO danger and location of danger
• Test/Silence: Electronically simulates smoke or carbon monoxide condition, causing the unit to alarm
• Alarm Reset: Automatic when smoke and/or CO clears
• Interconnections: Up to 18 units of First Alert or BRK Smoke, CO and Heat Alarms. Maximum of 12 smoke alarms
• Smoke Sensor: Photoelectric
• CO Sensor: Electrochemical
• Indicator Lights/Sounds: • AC Power: Constant Green LED / • DC Power: Intermittent Green LED
• Local Alarm: Red LED flashes, Voice: “Smoke” or “CO” with location
• Remote Alarm: Red LED off; Voice: “Smoke” or “CO” without location
• Alarm Latch: Red LED flashes every 5 seconds after local alarm stops
• Low Battery Latch: “Power” LED flashes green on for 2 seconds, off for 2 seconds
• Listing: Listed to UL217 and UL2034 Standards

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Review: Firex Battery Powered, Basic Ionization Smoke Alarm (Model # 461)

Friday, February 19th, 2010

All smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years.

The Firex 461 smoke alarm is an ionization 9V battery powered smoke alarms. This unit has an 85 decibel horn, test switch, low battery signal, and a lighted power/alarm LED indicator (except 461); the LED flashes once per minute indicating it is receiving power. When in alarm, the LED flashes rapidly once per second.hese Firex smoke alarms should be placed in single-family households or in each individual living unit of multiple-family buildings. All smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years.

Features:
• Basic Protection
• Dual ionization smoke sensing chamber early detection of fast burning fires such as gasoline, cooking grease and paper
• Installation design and features similar to other Firex smoke alarms Contractor familiarity with installation
• Incorporates Firex installer-focused innovations Fastest and easiest installation available
• Factory sealed housing Prevents tampering and provides outstanding durability

Technical Specifications:
• Operating Temperature: 40°-100°F 4°-38°C
• Electrical Rating: 9V DC Battery Powered
• Alarm Point obs. 1.1±0.47%/ft.
• Horn Output: 85 decibels at 10 feet
• Listing: UL 217 and ULC S531
• Detection Type: Dual Ionization Chamber
• Humidity Range: 10%-93% Relative Humidity

Review: BRK 120V Hardwired, Photoelectric Smoke Alarm (Model#7010)

Wednesday, February 17th, 2010

Photoelectric Sensor: Provides Faster Detection of Smoldering Fire

The BRK 7010 is an AC powered wire-in, and can be used for single and/or multiple station installations. Featuring a photoelectric smoke sensing chamber, an 85dB horn, single button test/silence, an easy access side-load battery drawer, a green LED power light and a red LED light that indicates audio local alarm. OptiPath360 Exclusive patented Technology Smoke sensor allows 360 Degree access to the layer of air on the ceiling or wall that carry the fire signatures (smoke, combustion particles and volatile components).

This smoke detector is interconnectable with up to 18 devices, of which 12 can be smoke alarms. The alarm feature automatically identifies which unit initiated an alarm. Connection to AC power is made with a Quick-Connect wiring harness. Installation is quick, easy and cost effective.

Additional Information :
Download Data Sheet Here
Download Manual Here

Features:
• Photoelectric Sensor: Provides Faster Detection of Smoldering Fire
• Optipath 360 Technology
• Quick Connect Wiring Harness for Quick Installation
• 10 Year Manufacture Limited Warranty

Technical Specifications:
• Operating Voltage: 120V AC
• Operating Current: .045 amps
• Temperature Range: 40°F (4°C) to 100°F (38°C)
• Humidity Range: 10% to 90% relative humidity (RH)
• Audio Alarm: 85dB at 10 feet
• Test Button: Electronically simulates the smoke condition, causing the unit to alarm.
• Alarm Reset: Automatic when smoke clears
• Interconnections Up to 18 units with Cat. Nos. 100S, 2002RAC, 4120, 4120AB, 4120B, 4120SAB, 4120SB, 7010, 7010B, 5919, HD6135FB and RM3.
• Maximum of 12 smoke alarms.
• Sensor: Photoelectric
• Indicator LEDs AC Power: Constant Green LED
• Local Alarm: Red LED flashes rapidly
• Remote Alarm: Red LED off
• Listing UL 217

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Review: First Alert Battery Powered, Combination Photoelectric Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm (Model#SCO5B)

Friday, February 12th, 2010

portable battery operated photoelectric smoke and electrochemical carbon monoxide combination alarm

The SCO5B is a basic battery operated photoelectric smoke/CO combo alarm meets most state and local codes for carbon monoxide and combination alarms. Combo alarms protect against two deadly threats, smoke and carbon monoxide.

Features:
• Smoke Alarm’s Photoelectric Sensor Reduces Nuisance Alarms
• Electrochemical Carbon Monoxide Alarm Warns of Elevated CO Levels
• Runs on (2) AA Batteries
• Easy Alarm Identification Through Different Horns Sounds and Lights
• Test/Silence Button
• Can be used with BRK

Technical Specifications:
• Detector Type: Smoke and Carbon Monoxide
• Sensor Type: Photoelectric Smoke and Electrochemical Carbon Monoxide
• Power Source: Battery Powered
• Temperature Range: 40°F to 100°F
• Humidity Range: 10% to 90% Relative Humidity
• Certifications: UL listed

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Review: BRK 9V Battery Operated Carbon Monoxide Alarm with Silence (Model#CO250B)

Tuesday, February 9th, 2010

Basic battery operated carbon monoxide alarm meets most state and local codes for carbon monoxide alarms

The BRK Model CO250B is a basic 9V battery operated carbon monoxide suitable for multifamily dwellings, hotels, motels, and hospitals defined in standard NFPA 101. The UL 2034 listed alarm provides the earliest warnings whenever carbon monoxide is present. It features an electrochemical carbon monoxide sensor, an 85dB horn, a supervised 9V battery power supply, a full function test switch, a silence feature to silence unwanted nuisance alarms, a red LED light that indicates DC power or alarm. It also features a tamper resistant locking pin that locks alarm cover to prevent removal of battery. To insure the battery is always replaced properly, the cover is designed to resist closing when the battery is missing. Designed for wall or ceiling mounting. Includes mounting anchors and screws.

Additional Information:
Manufacturer Specification Sheet (PDF File)
Manufacturer User Manual (PDF File)

Features:
• Electrochemical CO Sensor – The most accurate type of sensor available
• Silence Feature
• End of Life Signal provides audible notification alarms needs to be replaced
• Tamper Resistant
• Locking Pin
• 9V Battery Included
• 5-Years Limited Warranty

Technical Specifications:
• Model #:CO250B
• Sensor: Electrochemical
• Warranty Claim: 5-Years
• Package Type: Box
• Color: White
• Battery backup: N/A

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System Sensor 4-Wire Photoelectric Low-Flow Duct Smoke Detector (Model#D4120)

Friday, February 5th, 2010

The InnovairFlex duct smoke detector can be customized to meet local codes and specifications without additional wiring and is compatible with all previous Innovair models, including remote test accessories

The System Sensor (D4120) InnovairFlex 4-Wire Photoelectric Low-Flow Duct Smoke Detector fits both square and rectangular footprints and mounts to round or rectangular ductwork with its featured pivoting housing. The D4120 senses smoke in all types of conditions, from, operating in airflow speeds of 100 to 4,000 feet per minute, temperatures of -4°F to 158°F, and a humidity range of 0 to 95 percent (noncondensing). A plug-in sensor head offers improved false alarm immunity and simple installation, testing, and maintenance. An improved cover design isolates the sensor head from the low-flow feature for simple maintenance.

The InnovairFlex housing provides ample wiring space, a 3/4-inch conduit knockout, and built-in short circuit protection to prevent damage to sensitive components during installation. High contrast terminal designations make wiring easy. With its 2:1 sensor-to-power capability, the power board of the D4120 may be used to monitor a second sensor, D4S, simultaneously (i.e., supply and return side). As many as 50 InnovairFlex detectors can be interconnected. When one unit senses smoke, all interconnected detectors will switch their relays; only the detector sensing smoke will go into alarm, thus pinpointing the fire source. The primary purpose of duct smoke detection is to prevent injury, panic, and property damage by reducing the spread (recirculation) of smoke. Duct smoke detection also can serve to protect the air conditioning system itself from fire and smoke damage, and can be used to assist in equipment protection applications, for example, in the ventilation/ exhaust duct work of mainframe computers and tape drives.

An easy-access Test/Reset button makes it possible to test the unit with the cover on. Three DIP switches can be used to configure field selectable settings: cover tamper delay, number of sensors to be controlled, and shut down on trouble option. Each power board has two LEDs that can be used to indicate the status of connected sensors, and a quick reference imprinted on the cover explains the LED status indications (Standby, Maintenance, Trouble, and Alarm). The InnovairFlex duct smoke detector can be customized to meet local codes and specifications without additional wiring and is compatible with all previous Innovair models, including remote test accessories. InnovairFlex is a next generation duct smoke detector product series from System Sensor.

Package Contents
• Sensor/power board assembly and cover(s)
• Three #10 sheet metal screws for mounting
• One test magnet
• Drilling template
• One sampling tube end cap
• One plastic exhaust tube

Please Note: A DST series sampling tube must be ordered to complete the installation. It must be the correct length for the width of the duct where it will be installed
• DST1 – up to 1 ft outside duct width
• DST1.5 – 1 to 2 ft outside duct width
• DST3 – 2 to 4 ft outside duct width
• DST5 – 4 to 8 ft outside duct width

Product Video:

Additional Information:
Manufacturer Specification Sheet (PDF File)
Manufacturer User Manual (PDF File)