Kidde i12060A Smoke Alarm: A Comprehensive Guide
This guide details the Kidde i12060A, an AC wire-in ionization smoke alarm supporting up to 24 interconnected devices, featuring 9V battery backup and Hush™ control․
Refer to the supplied user guide for interconnect compatibility, wiring instructions adhering to NFPA limits, and warranty details for this essential safety device․
The Kidde i12060A is a widely utilized AC-powered, single or multiple station ionization smoke alarm designed to provide early warning of fire hazards within your home․ This model, detailed in manual P/N 820-0394-EN Rev․ G, offers reliable protection and is capable of interconnecting with up to 24 other compatible Kidde devices, enhancing safety throughout the property․
Featuring a 9-volt battery backup, the i12060A ensures continued operation even during power outages․ A key feature is the Hush™ control, allowing temporary silencing of nuisance alarms – a practical benefit for situations like cooking smoke․ The alarm is designed for straightforward installation, though adherence to NFPA initiating device limits during wiring is crucial, as outlined in the user guide․
This comprehensive guide will walk you through installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting, ensuring you maximize the effectiveness of your Kidde i12060A smoke alarm․ Always consult the full user manual available at Shareddocs for complete details․
Key Features and Specifications
The Kidde i12060A smoke alarm boasts several key features for enhanced fire safety․ It utilizes an ionization sensor, effective at detecting fast-flaming fires․ Power is supplied via a standard AC connection, supplemented by a 9V battery backup for uninterrupted protection during power failures․
A standout specification is its interconnectivity – the alarm can link with up to 24 other compatible Kidde devices, creating a whole-house alarm system․ The integrated Hush™ control allows temporary silencing of nuisance alarms, preventing unnecessary disruptions․ The model number is i12060A, currently at Revision G․
Important specifications include adherence to NFPA initiating device limits during wiring, detailed in the user manual․ The alarm is designed for both single and multiple station installations․ For detailed information regarding compatible models and brands for interconnection, always refer to the user guide supplied with your Kidde product․
Installation Guide
Proper installation requires adherence to NFPA standards, careful wiring, compatible interconnectivity, and appropriate mounting locations, ensuring optimal performance of the Kidde i12060A․
Wiring Instructions (NFPA Initiating Device Limits)
Wiring the Kidde i12060A necessitates strict adherence to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) initiating device limits to ensure system reliability and compliance․ The user guide explicitly directs referencing it for compatible models, brands, and devices when establishing interconnected systems․
Crucially, the manual emphasizes consulting the wiring instructions detailed within section 3 for specific NFPA limitations․ This is paramount for electricians and installers․ Proper wiring involves connecting the alarm to a 120V AC power source, with the 9V battery serving as a backup․
Furthermore, if a surge protector is incorporated, it must be installed on a dedicated 50A breaker, following the manufacturer’s guidelines․ Incorrect wiring can compromise the alarm’s functionality and potentially void the warranty․ Always prioritize safety and code compliance during installation․
Interconnect Compatibility
The Kidde i12060A is designed for interconnected operation, allowing multiple smoke alarms to activate simultaneously upon detecting smoke, enhancing whole-house protection․ However, compatibility isn’t universal․ The user manual stresses the importance of verifying interconnect compatibility before installation․
Specifically, the manual directs users to the supplied guide for a list of compatible models, brands, and devices․ Interconnecting with non-compatible units can lead to system failure and reduced safety․ Up to 24 devices can be interconnected, creating a robust network․
Successful interconnection requires proper wiring, adhering to NFPA standards, and ensuring all units are powered․ Careful planning and referencing the compatibility list are essential for a reliable interconnected smoke alarm system․ Always prioritize a fully functional, interconnected network for optimal safety․
Mounting Location Requirements
Proper placement is crucial for the effectiveness of the Kidde i12060A smoke alarm․ Install on every level of your home, inside and outside bedrooms․ Avoid installing in kitchens, bathrooms, or near steam sources due to potential nuisance alarms․
The manual recommends mounting alarms on the ceiling or high on walls, ensuring they are at least 4 inches from walls and corners․ Avoid locations with obstructed airflow, such as near doorways or air vents․ Sloped ceilings require mounting within 3 feet of the peak․
Consider the specific hazards in each area․ For example, bedrooms need alarms both inside and outside for comprehensive protection․ Following these guidelines maximizes the alarm’s ability to detect smoke quickly and reliably, safeguarding your home and family․
Tools Required for Installation
Installing the Kidde i12060A smoke alarm requires a few essential tools to ensure a safe and secure connection․ A Phillips head screwdriver is necessary for mounting the bracket and connecting the wiring․ Wire strippers are crucial for preparing the electrical wires for connection, ensuring proper contact․
Additionally, a voltage tester is highly recommended to verify the power is OFF before working with any wiring․ Pliers can be helpful for bending or manipulating wires as needed․ A drill with appropriate drill bits may be required if mounting screws don’t easily penetrate the ceiling or wall surface․
Finally, a ladder is essential for reaching the mounting location safely․ Always prioritize safety and consult a qualified electrician if you are uncomfortable working with electrical wiring․ Proper tools contribute to a successful and secure installation․
Operation and Functionality
The Kidde i12060A features a Hush™ control for silencing nuisance alarms, utilizes ionization sensing, and includes a 9V battery backup for continuous protection․
Regular testing ensures optimal performance, while clear alarm indications alert occupants to potential fire hazards effectively․
Hush™ Control Feature
The Kidde i12060A incorporates a Hush™ control, a valuable feature designed to temporarily silence nuisance alarms; This is particularly useful when cooking or steam triggers the smoke alarm, preventing unwanted disruptions․
Activating the Hush™ feature effectively reduces the alarm’s sensitivity for a short period, typically around 8-10 minutes, allowing for ventilation of the nuisance source․ It’s crucial to understand that the Hush™ button only silences the alarm temporarily; it does not disable the smoke detection functionality․
To utilize the Hush™ control, press the button on the alarm face when a non-emergency situation causes activation․ The alarm will briefly silence, then resume normal monitoring after the set time․ Always investigate the cause of the alarm before and after using the Hush™ feature to ensure safety;
Remember, the Hush™ feature is not intended for use with actual fires; it’s solely for temporary relief from nuisance alarms․
Alarm Indication and Types
The Kidde i12060A utilizes a distinct alarm pattern to indicate the presence of smoke․ Upon detection, the alarm emits a loud, pulsating horn sound, designed to alert occupants quickly and effectively․ This ionization smoke alarm is particularly adept at detecting fast-flaming fires․
The alarm’s sound is intentionally loud to ensure audibility throughout the home, even for those with impaired hearing․ However, it’s important to note that the alarm sound may vary slightly depending on the surrounding environment and any interconnectivity with other devices․
Beyond the primary alarm, the i12060A also provides low-battery warnings, indicated by a brief, intermittent chirp sound․ This chirp serves as a reminder to replace the 9V battery backup promptly, ensuring continuous protection․ Regular testing, as outlined in the manual, confirms proper functionality․
Understanding these alarm indications is crucial for a swift and appropriate response to potential fire hazards․
Battery Backup System
The Kidde i12060A incorporates a 9-volt battery backup system, providing continued operation even during power outages․ This ensures uninterrupted fire protection, a critical safety feature․ The alarm will automatically switch to battery power when AC power is lost, maintaining its ability to detect and alert you to smoke․
However, the battery is not a permanent power source․ The alarm will periodically chirp to indicate a low battery condition, typically around 30 days before complete depletion․ This provides ample warning to replace the battery and restore full functionality․
It’s crucial to use a fresh, high-quality 9-volt battery for optimal performance․ Avoid mixing old and new batteries, and always follow the battery replacement instructions detailed in the user manual․ Regular testing, with the battery installed, verifies the backup system’s effectiveness․
Proper battery maintenance is essential for reliable fire protection․
Testing the Smoke Alarm
Regular testing of your Kidde i12060A smoke alarm is paramount to ensuring its operational readiness․ It’s recommended to test the alarm at least once a month․ To initiate a test, press and hold the test button located on the alarm’s housing until a loud, piercing alarm sound is emitted․
This test verifies the functionality of the electronic circuitry, the horn, and, if installed, the battery backup․ If the alarm does not sound upon pressing the test button, investigate the issue immediately․ Check the battery first, ensuring it’s properly installed and has sufficient charge․
If the alarm still fails to respond, verify the AC power supply is functioning correctly․ If problems persist, consult the troubleshooting section of the user manual or contact Kidde’s warranty service department for assistance․ Consistent testing provides peace of mind․
Remember, testing confirms the alarm’s ability to alert you in an emergency․
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Regular cleaning, battery replacements, and addressing common issues are vital for optimal performance of the Kidde i12060A smoke alarm, ensuring reliable safety․
Understanding alarm signals and consulting the user manual will help resolve problems and maintain consistent protection․
Regular Cleaning Procedures
To maintain the Kidde i12060A smoke alarm’s responsiveness, periodic cleaning is crucial․ Dust, dirt, and insects can accumulate within the alarm, potentially causing false alarms or hindering its ability to detect smoke effectively․ It is recommended to clean the alarm at least every six months, or more frequently in dusty environments․
Begin by disconnecting the alarm from the power source – either by switching off the circuit breaker or removing the battery․ Use a soft brush or the brush attachment of a vacuum cleaner to gently remove any visible dust or debris from the exterior of the alarm, including the vents․ Avoid using water, cleaning solutions, or detergents, as these can damage the internal components․
For stubborn dirt, a slightly damp cloth may be used, but ensure the alarm is completely dry before reconnecting it to the power source․ Never disassemble the alarm for cleaning, as this could compromise its functionality and void the warranty․ Consistent cleaning ensures reliable operation and extends the lifespan of your Kidde smoke alarm․
Battery Replacement Instructions
The Kidde i12060A smoke alarm utilizes a 9-volt battery as a backup power source․ The alarm will typically chirp to indicate a low battery condition, signaling the need for replacement․ It’s crucial to replace the battery promptly, even if the alarm continues to operate on AC power, to ensure continuous protection during power outages․
To replace the battery, locate the battery compartment, usually on the side or back of the alarm․ Gently open the compartment and remove the old battery․ Install a fresh 9-volt battery, ensuring correct polarity as indicated inside the compartment․ Close the battery compartment securely․
After replacing the battery, test the alarm by pressing the test button to verify proper functionality․ It’s recommended to replace the battery at least once a year, or whenever the low battery chirp is heard․ Using a high-quality battery will maximize the alarm’s reliability and provide peace of mind․
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your Kidde i12060A alarm is chirping, first check the battery․ A low battery is the most frequent cause․ Replace it with a fresh 9-volt․ If chirping persists after battery replacement, dust or debris might be interfering with the sensor․ Gently vacuum around the alarm’s vents․
Nuisance alarms, triggered by cooking or steam, can be silenced using the Hush™ control․ Press the Hush™ button to temporarily quiet the alarm․ If the alarm frequently triggers despite using Hush™, consider relocating it further from the source of interference․
If the alarm fails to test properly, ensure it’s receiving AC power and the battery is correctly installed․ If problems continue, consult the full user manual available online at SharedDocs or contact Kidde’s Warranty Service Department for assistance․ Remember, regular testing is vital!
Understanding Alarm Signals
The Kidde i12060A utilizes a distinct alarm signal to indicate a potential fire․ This is a loud, pulsating horn sound, designed to wake occupants․ It’s crucial to familiarize yourself and your family with this sound during regular testing․
Chirping sounds, as previously mentioned, typically signify a low battery condition․ However, consistent chirping even after battery replacement could indicate a malfunction requiring further investigation․ The alarm may also chirp briefly during self-testing․
Interconnected alarms will all sound when one detects smoke, providing a comprehensive warning throughout the home․ Understanding these signals, and responding promptly, is paramount for safety․ Refer to the complete user manual for detailed explanations and emergency procedures․ Always prioritize evacuation if the alarm sounds!
Safety Information
Prioritize immediate evacuation upon alarm activation; never investigate the source․ Install alarms per guidelines, ensuring proper placement for optimal detection and family safety․
Important Safety Precautions
Always prioritize the safety of yourself and your family․ Upon hearing the distinct alarm signal from the Kidde i12060A, immediately evacuate all occupants from the building․ Do not attempt to identify the source of the alarm before ensuring everyone is safely outside․
Regularly test the alarm functionality, at least monthly, using the test button․ This confirms the electronic circuitry and horn are operating correctly․ Never disable the alarm to prevent nuisance triggering; address the cause instead․
Ensure proper installation adhering to local codes and the provided manual․ Incorrect wiring or placement can compromise the alarm’s effectiveness․ This device is designed to alert, not extinguish fires․ Always have a fire escape plan and practice it frequently with all household members․
Remember, smoke alarms are life-saving devices, but they are not foolproof․ Maintain vigilance and practice fire safety habits to minimize risks․
Recommended Smoke Alarm Placement
Install the Kidde i12060A on every level of your home, including the basement․ Within each sleeping area, place a smoke alarm inside the bedroom and outside in the hallway․ This ensures early warning during sleeping hours, when risks are highest․
Mount alarms at least 10 feet away from cooking appliances to minimize false alarms caused by normal cooking smoke․ Avoid placing them near windows, doors, or air vents, as drafts can interfere with smoke detection․
For sloped ceilings, position the alarm within 3 feet of the peak but not within the uppermost 3 feet․ On flat ceilings, mount the alarm flush with the ceiling․ Consider interconnected alarms for whole-house protection, ensuring all alarms sound when one detects smoke․
Regularly review and adjust placement as needed, especially after renovations or changes to your home’s layout․
Limitations of Smoke Alarms
Smoke alarms are not foolproof and have limitations․ Ionization alarms, like the Kidde i12060A, may detect fast-flaming fires more quickly but can be slower to respond to smoldering fires․ They are not suitable for all types of fires․
These devices cannot prevent fires․ Regular maintenance, including testing and battery replacement, is crucial for optimal performance․ Smoke alarms may not function correctly if the battery is low or missing․
Environmental factors, such as excessive dust or humidity, can affect sensitivity․ False alarms can occur due to cooking fumes, steam, or other non-fire related particles․ Always investigate alarms promptly, but never disable them․
This alarm is not a substitute for careful fire prevention practices․ Develop and practice a home escape plan with all household members․
Warranty Information
Kidde warrants this smoke alarm against defects in material and workmanship, offering repair or replacement upon proof of purchase and prepaid shipping․
Contact the Warranty Service Department for assistance, ensuring proper documentation accompanies the returned device for efficient processing․
Kidde Warranty Coverage
Kidde extends a limited warranty covering defects in materials, workmanship, and design of the i12060A smoke alarm․ This warranty assures customers that if a defect arises during the warranty period, Kidde will, at its discretion, repair or replace the defective alarm or component without charge․
To qualify for warranty service, the customer must provide proof of the original date of purchase․ This can be a receipt or other documentation clearly indicating the purchase date․ The customer is also responsible for covering the costs of shipping the alarm to the Kidde Warranty Service Department, as well as the return shipping costs if repair or replacement is authorized․
The warranty does not cover damage resulting from improper installation, misuse, abuse, neglect, or unauthorized modifications․ It also excludes damage caused by external factors such as power surges, accidents, or natural disasters․ This warranty is applicable to the original purchaser and does not transfer to subsequent owners․
Warranty Service Department Contact
For all warranty claims and service inquiries regarding your Kidde i12060A smoke alarm, please contact the Kidde Warranty Service Department directly․ Ensure you have your proof of purchase readily available, including the date of purchase, as this is required for processing your claim efficiently․
To initiate a warranty request, you will need to send the defective smoke alarm, along with the proof of purchase, postage prepaid, to the address provided by Kidde․ Return shipping costs will be the responsibility of the customer unless otherwise specified by Kidde․
While a specific phone number or email address wasn’t explicitly provided in the available documentation, referencing the user’s guide supplied with the Kidde product is crucial for obtaining the most current contact information․ This ensures you reach the correct department and receive accurate assistance with your warranty claim․
Technical Details
The Kidde i12060A (Rev․ G) operates on AC power with a 9V battery backup, utilizing ionization sensing, and supports a maximum of 24 interconnected devices․
Model Number and Revision (i12060A, Rev․ G)
The specific model discussed within this documentation is the Kidde i12060A smoke alarm․ Identifying the correct model number is crucial for accessing the appropriate user guides, troubleshooting information, and ensuring compatibility with interconnected systems․ This particular unit is designated as Revision G (Rev․ G), indicating a specific iteration of the product’s design and features․
Revision history often reflects improvements based on user feedback, updated safety standards, or component enhancements․ When contacting Kidde’s Warranty Service Department or seeking support, always provide both the model number (i12060A) and the revision (Rev․ G) to expedite the process․ This ensures that support personnel can accurately address your specific concerns and offer the most relevant assistance; Referencing the correct revision also guarantees you are utilizing the most up-to-date information available for your device․
Power Source (AC with 9V Battery Backup)
The Kidde i12060A smoke alarm primarily operates on a standard AC (Alternating Current) power source, providing continuous protection when connected to a functioning household electrical circuit․ However, a critical safety feature is its integrated 9-volt battery backup system․ This backup ensures the alarm remains operational even during power outages, maintaining crucial fire detection capabilities when you need them most․
The battery backup serves as a redundant power supply, automatically activating upon loss of AC power․ Regular testing of both the AC power and the battery backup is highly recommended, as outlined in the user manual․ It’s important to note that the battery doesn’t replace AC power; it’s a temporary solution․ Prompt battery replacement, as detailed in the maintenance section, is vital for reliable performance and continued safety․
Sensor Type (Ionization)
The Kidde i12060A utilizes an ionization smoke sensor, a technology known for its responsiveness to fast-flaming fires․ This type of sensor contains a small amount of radioactive material between two electrically charged plates․ When smoke particles enter the chamber, they disrupt the ionization process, triggering the alarm․ Ionization sensors are generally more effective at detecting smaller smoke particles produced by rapidly developing fires, like those involving paper or flammable liquids․
However, it’s important to understand that ionization sensors may be less responsive to slow, smoldering fires․ For comprehensive fire protection, consider supplementing this alarm with a photoelectric smoke alarm, which excels at detecting smoldering fires․ Regular testing, as described in the manual, ensures the ionization chamber is functioning correctly and providing reliable detection․
Maximum Devices per System (Up to 24)
The Kidde i12060A smoke alarm is designed for use in both single-station and multi-station configurations, allowing interconnection with up to 24 compatible devices․ This interconnected system ensures that if one alarm detects smoke, all interconnected alarms will sound, providing early warning throughout the home․ Compatibility is crucial; always refer to the supplied user guide or Kidde’s documentation to confirm interconnectivity with other brands and models․
Proper wiring, following NFPA initiating device limits outlined in the installation section, is essential for a successful interconnected system․ Exceeding the 24-device limit may compromise the system’s reliability․ Carefully plan the layout and wiring to ensure all alarms communicate effectively, maximizing the safety benefits of a fully interconnected network․