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 Alarm at least once a month; gently vacuum the outside of the Alarm using your household vacuum’s soft brush attachment.

    • Never use water, cleaners or solvents since they may damage the unit.

    • If the Alarm becomes contaminated by excessive dirt, dust and/or grime, and cannot be cleaned to avoid unwanted alarms, replace the unit immediately.

      NOTE: To prevent false or nuisance alarms, the accommodating spaces are to be well ventilated when household cleaning supplies or similar contaminants are used.

Video: Clean and Maintain your BRK Alarm

When to change the battery backup (replaceable battery models only)

NOTE: This does not apply to the 10-Year non replaceable battery model

When the battery back-up becomes weak, the 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. The Low Battery Latch feature will be engaged. LED Flashes 1 chirp per minute; 1 yellow flash in sync with the horn pattern; followed by 1 yellow flash every 6 seconds. (Low Battery Latch is engaged.)

Choosing a replacement battery

Your Alarm requires two “AA” batteries: Kendal LR6, Energizer E91, or Duracell MN1500. These batteries are available at many local retail stores.

WARNING!

  • Always use the exact batteries specified by this Manual. DO NOT use rechargeable batteries. 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.

NOTE: Actual battery service life depends on the Smoke/CO Alarm and the environment in which it is installed. Constant exposure to high or low humidity can reduce battery life. 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”).

To replace the batteries (without removing Alarm from the ceiling or wall):

  1. Open the battery compartment by sliding the switch to the left.

  2. Press tabs A and B as shown in the diagram and remove each battery.

  3. Insert the new batteries, making sure they snap completely into the battery compartment. Match the terminals on the ends of the batteries with the terminals on the unit.

  4. Close the battery compartment; you will hear a click ensuring it is closed all the way, and then test the unit by pressing the Test/Silence button.