Kidde is the only major manufacturer whose CO alarms currently meet the strict standards set forth by both UL and CSA. Accuracy: Look for a statement on the package about the alarm's accuracy level. If the CO alarm is UL Listed, then the accuracy statement will have been certified by UL, too.
Overall, we recommend the First Alert SA3210 because it combines photoelectric and ionization sensors that detect low and smoky fires as well as high flames. It's also battery-operated, so it's easy to install. If you're looking for a bargain, the Kidde I9030 is a basic smoke detector that does the job at low cost.
Kidde CO alarms have a proven life of seven to ten years, depending on the model type. Important Note! CO alarms do not detect the presence of CO when in end-of-life mode. Replace your CO alarms before the end-of-life warning.
Since no one can predict what type of fire might start in their home, the U.S. Fire Administration recommends that every home and place where people sleep have: Both ionization AND photoelectric smoke alarms, OR. Dual-sensor smoke alarms, which contain both ionization and photoelectric smoke sensors.
The International Association of Fire Chiefs recommends a carbon monoxide detector on every floor of your home, including the basement. A detector should be located within 10 feet of each bedroom door and there should be one near or over any attached garage.
Consistent Chirping
If your carbon monoxide alarm is chirping or beeping once every 60 seconds, it may signify: Low Battery – The carbon monoxide batteries need to be replaced. End of Life Warning – Seven years after initial power up, a Kidde CO alarm will begin chirping every 30 seconds.
In addition to the quality and high standards of their products, the Kidde carbon monoxide alarm and other products adhere to UK fire safety best practices. This means that they conform to all of the required British Standard (BS50291) fire safety requirements and are CE (European Conformity) certified.
1 beep every minute: This means that the detector has low batteries and you should replace them. 5 beeps every minute: This means your alarm has reached the end of its life and needs to be replaced with a new carbon monoxide alarm.
Are Plug-in Carbon Monoxide Detectors Effective? Yes, plug-in monitors work just as well as battery-powered devices. The best plug-in carbon monoxide detector for your home is one with a battery backup. That way, you know your monitor will also work in case of a power outage.
It sounds like your Kidde alarms are reaching the end of their useful life. Most smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are designed to last around 7-10 years, and once they reach that age, they often start malfunctioning or go off continuously as a signal they need to be replaced.
Whenever the alarm is operating, the green Power LED flashes every 30 seconds to indicate the unit is monitoring for CO. If the alarm senses dangerous levels of CO, the red Alarm LED will flash and the alarm will emit an audible alarm pattern.
False or nuisance alarms are when your smoke detector or CO alarm goes off, but there is no presence of smoke or carbon monoxide in your home. However, if your smoke or carbon monoxide detector sounds indicating an emergency and you are not certain it is a nuisance alarm, evacuate the home and call 9-1-1.
Carbon monoxide detectors should be installed on every level of your home — specifically outside of sleeping areas, in the kitchen, in living/dining areas, and in the garage. Also install one near your gas furnace, if you have one, as well as in the laundry room if you have a gas clothes dryer.
You can perform a crisis test by lighting a candle, incense stick, or other material for burning. Once this material burns a steady smoke stream, hold it about 12 to 18 inches below the smoke detector unit.
The manufacturer of Firex® branded products was acquired by Kidde in 2009. Invensys Controls no longer manufactures or supports these products. This website may contain some historical support documents, such as product user guides that may reference the Invensys Controls name or mailing address for product support.
Kidde carbon monoxide alarms have a proven life of seven to ten years, depending on the model type. As of 2013, ALL Kidde carbon monoxide alarms have a 10-year life, with the following exceptions: Model KN-COEG-3, KN-COPE-I and KN-COPP-3. If your CO alarm was manufactured before 2013, it has a seven-year life.
In most areas, the fire department does not charge to respond to carbon monoxide alarms or to check for the presence of CO in a residence. However, policies can vary depending on the jurisdiction or specific fire department. It's always a good idea to contact your local fire department for specifics on their policies.
Contrary to a few opinions in here, I think some Kidde models are fine. Certain models (like the P4010 series) are poorly reviewed and prone to false alarms. Other models are totally fine. The same thing is true for all brands, including First Alert!
Outside of each bedroom or sleeping area. Inside an attached garage. On every floor, including the basement. At least 10 feet from the garage door leading to your home.
If you begin hearing a single beep or chirping noise every minute, this indicates that your battery is getting low. If your battery is getting low, you should replace it right away.
If your detector makes three consecutive beeps around every five minutes, this indicates it is malfunctioning. Newer model detectors will prompt you by saying a recorded message or indicate through light colors. Look to replace your detector.
How often should I replace my smoke detectors or carbon monoxide detectors? Smoke detectors typically are suitable for ten years. Carbon monoxide detectors are generally good for seven years. When you change your batteries in these units, check the date and replace them before they go bad.
False alarms are most commonly caused by something interfering with the sensor. To clean, after disconnecting the alarm and removing any removable battery: hold the unit by its edge and thoroughly blow through the gap on the side of the unit with compressed air (like keyboard cleaner).