USER’S MANUAL
SMOKE ALARMS
Smoke particles 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 detect-
ing large particles, which tend to be produced
in greater amounts by smoldering fires, which
may smolder for hours before bursting into
flame. Sources of these fires may include
cigarettes burning in couches or bedding.
AC Powered Ionization Smoke Alarm with
Battery Back-Up and Silence Feature
Cats. 4120SB, 4120SAB
Input: 120V AC, 60Hz, 0.05A
AC Powered Ionization Smoke Alarm
with Battery Back-Up
For maximum protection, use both types of smoke
alarms on each level of your home.
Cats. 4120B, 4120AB
Input: 120V AC, 60Hz, 0.05A
AC Powered Ionization Smoke Alarm
Cat. 4120
Input: 120V AC, 60Hz, 0.05A
Models
4120SB, 4120B, 4120
M06-2016-008 08/01
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WHERE TO INSTALL SMOKE ALARMS
INSTALLING SMOKE ALARMS IN SINGLE-FAMILY AND MULTI-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˚C) and 100˚F (38˚C). Make sure no door or other obstruction could keep smoke from reach-
ing the Smoke Alarms.
KEY:
REQUIRED TO MEET
DINING ROOM
KITCHEN
BEDROOM
NFPA RECOMMENDATIONS
BEDROOM
BEDROOM
KITCHEN
HALL
RECOMMENDED FOR
ADDITIONAL PROTECTION
LIVING ROOM
SMOKE ALARMS WITH SILENCE
FEATURES RECOMMENDED FOR
ADDITIONAL PROTECTION
LIVING ROOM
BEDROOM
INTERCONNECTED AC OR
AC/DC SMOKE ALARMS
FINISHED BASEMENT
SINGLE-STORY RESIDENCE, APARTMENT,
MOBILE HOME
MULTI-STORY RESIDENCE
KEY:
REQUIRED TO MEET
BEDROOM
NFPA RECOMMENDATIONS
BEDROOM
HALL
BEDROOM
KITCHEN
DINING ROOM
LIVING ROOM
KITCHEN
RECOMMENDED FOR
ADDITIONAL PROTECTION
LIVING ROOM
SMOKE ALARMS WITH SILENCE
FEATURES RECOMMENDED FOR
ADDITIONAL PROTECTION
BEDROOM
FINISHED BASEMENT
SINGLE-STORY RESIDENCE, APARTMENT,
MOBILE HOME
MULTI-STORY RESIDENCE
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More specifically, install Smoke Alarms:
National Fire Protection Association, One Batterymarch
Park, Quincy, MA 02269-9101. Additional local build-
ing and regulatory codes may apply in your area.
Always check compliance requirements before
beginning any installation.
• 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 12 meters long
(40 feet), install a unit at each end.
• At the top of the first-to-second floor stairway,
and at the bottom of the basement stairway.
Smoke Alarms Recommended In Hotels, Motels,
Hospitals, Extended Care Facilities
Install stand-alone (non-interconnected) AC powered
Smoke Alarms with battery back-up for maximum
protection in each sleeping room.
INDIVIDUAL ROOMS
Specific requirements for Smoke Alarm installation
vary from state to state and from region to region.
Check with your local Building Inspector and/or Fire
Department for current requirements in your area. If
you install AC or AC/DC units, it is recommended
(and may be required) they be interconnected for
added protection.
LOBBY
HALLWAY
RECOMMENDED STAND-ALONE
(NON-INTERCONNECTED)SMOKE ALARMS
AGENCY PLACEMENT
RECOMMENDATIONS
NFPA 72 (National Fire Code)
Installing Smoke Alarms in Mobile Homes
For minimum security install one Smoke Alarm as close
to each sleeping area as possible. For more security,
put one unit in each room. Many older mobile homes
(especially those built before 1978) have little or no
insulation. If your mobile home is not well insulated, or
if you are unsure of the amount of insulation, it is
important to install units on inside walls only. Smoke
Alarms should be installed where temperatures normal-
ly remain between 40˚F (4˚C) and 100˚F (38˚C).
Smoke Alarms shall be installed in each separate sleep-
ing room, outside each sleeping area in the immediate
vicinity of the bedrooms and on each additional story of
the family living unit, including basements and exclud-
ing crawl spaces and unfinished attics.
In new construction, Alarms shall be so arranged that
operation of any one Alarm shall cause the operation of
all Alarms within the dwelling.
This equipment should be installed in accordance with
NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) 72 and 101.
Smoke Detection-Are More Smoke Alarms Desirable?
The required number of Smoke Alarms might not pro-
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vide reliable early warning protection for those areas
separated by a door from the areas protected by
the required Smoke Alarms. For this reason, it is
recommended that the householder consider the use of
additional Smoke Alarms for those areas for increased
protection. The additional areas include the basement,
bedrooms, dining room, furnace room, utility room, and
hallways not protected by the required smoke alarms.
The installation of Smoke Alarms in kitchens, attics
(finished or unfinished), or garages is not normally
recommended, as these locations occasionally experi-
ence conditions that can result in improper operation.
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.
WHERE NOT TO INSTALL SMOKE ALARMS
For best performance, do not install the unit:
• 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.
• 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. Ventilate these
areas as much as possible.
• Near fresh air vents, ceiling fans, or in very
drafty areas. Drafts can blow smoke away
from the unit, preventing it from reaching the
sensing chamber.
• In insect infested areas. Insects can clog
openings to the sensing chamber and cause
unwanted alarms.
• In air streams near kitchens. Air currents can
draw cooking smoke into the sensing chamber
of a smoke alarm near the kitchen.
• Less than 12 inches (305 mm) away from
fluorescent lights. Electrical “noise” can interfere
with the sensor.
• 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.
• In “dead air” spaces. “Dead air” spaces may
prevent smoke from reaching the smoke alarm.
• Where the temperatures are regularly below 40˚F
(4˚ C) or above 100˚ F (38˚ C) including unheated
buildings, outdoor rooms, porches, or unfinished
attics or basements.
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AVOIDING DEAD AIR SPACES
“Dead air” spaces may prevent smoke from reach-
ing the Smoke Alarm. To avoid dead air spaces,
follow the installation recommendations below.
FOR STANDARD, FLAT CEILINGS
Best Location
4"
4"
(center of ceiling)
Acceptable
Location
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.
Do not install top of
Dead Air Spaces
(4" or 102 mm)
smoke alarm lower than
12" (305 mm) from the
wall/ceiling line
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.
FOR SLOPED CEILINGS
(i.e. great rooms, condominiums, dormers)
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.
Install first
smoke alarm
in this target area
3 ft
(0.9m)
If required,
install additional
smoke alarms
along the slope.
FOR PEAKED CEILINGS
(i.e. Cathedral ceilings, A-frames)
Install first
smoke alarm
in this target area
If required,
3 ft
(0.9m)
install additional
smoke alarms
along the slope.
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IMPORTANT! READ BEFORE YOU INSTALL THIS SMOKE ALARM
Read “Where To Install Smoke Alarms” and “Where
Not To Install Smoke Alarms” before beginning. This
This unit must be powered by a 24-hour, 120VAC
60Hz circuit. Be sure the circuit cannot be turned
off by a switch, dimmer, or ground fault circuit inter-
rupter. Failure to connect this unit to a 24-hour circuit
may prevent it from providing constant protection.
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.
This Smoke Alarm must have AC or battery power
to operate.
On Models 4120SB and 4120B Only:
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.
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.
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 hear-
ing impaired residents.
It is possible an electrical fire could occur on the
circuit powering this unit. If this happened, the power
to the unit could be cut off and it may fail to alarm.
Some safety experts recommend wiring warning
devices like this unit on separate circuits from other
appliances, since these circuits are not as likely to be
overloaded. Other safety experts recommend wiring
these units on the same circuits as appliances so it is
more readily apparent if the circuit fails. Whichever
circuit you choose, it is recommended you also install
battery powered units as back-ups in case of fire on
the circuit powering the AC powered units.
Installation of this unit must conform to the electri-
cal codes in your area; Article 760 of NFPA 70 (NEC),
NFPA 72, NFPA 101; SBC (SBCCI); UBC (ICBO); NBC
(BOCA); OTFDC (CABO), and any other local or
building codes that may apply. Wiring and installa-
tion must be performed by a licensed electrician.
Failure to follow these guidelines may result in injury
or property damage.
Continued...
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Read Before You Install This Smoke Alarm (continued)...
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 auto-
matically 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.
Do not stand too close to the unit when the alarm
is sounding. It is loud to wake you in an emergency.
Exposure to the horn at close range may harm your
hearing. When testing the unit, step back when the
horn starts sounding.
Do not paint over the unit. Paint may clog the
openings to the sensing chamber and prevent the
unit from operating properly.
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 auxil-
iary device. Connecting anything else to this unit
may damage it or prevent it from operating properly.
On Models 4120SB and 4120B Only:
The battery compartment will not close unless a
battery is installed. This warns you the unit will not
operate under DC power without a battery.
UNDERSTANDING THE INDICATOR LIGHTS AND ALARM HORN PATTERNS
Normal Operation
Test Condition
Alarm Condition*
(Initiating Unit)
AC Power
4120SB, 4120B, 4120
Constant Green LED
Flashing Red LED
No Audible Alarm
Constant Green LED
Rapidly Flashing LED
Audible Alarm
Constant Green LED
Rapidly Flashing Red LED
Audible Alarm
Green LED Off
Flashing Red LED
No Audible Alarm
Green LED Off
Rapidly Flashing LED
Audible Alarm
Green LED Off
Rapidly Flashing LED
Audible Alarm
DC Power
4120SB, 4120B
NOTE: When power is applied, unit(s) may alarm momentarily.
*When any Smoke Alarm in an interconnected series triggers an alarm, its red LED will flash rapidly. The red LEDs will
remain OFF on any remaining alarms in the series. This feature helps responders identify which unit(s) triggered the alarm.
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IMPORTANT INSTALLATION PARTS
LOCKING FEATURES
The Mounting Bracket:
To remove the mounting
bracket from the Smoke
Alarm base, hold the
Smoke Alarm base firmly
and twist the mounting
bracket off. The mounting
bracket installs onto the
junction box. It has a
variety of screw slots to
fit most boxes.
The locking features are designed to prevent
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.
These Smoke Alarms have two separate locking
features: one to lock the battery compartment, and
the other to lock the Smoke Alarm to the mounting
bracket. You can choose to use either feature
independently, or use them both.
Tools you will need:
• Needle-nose pliers or utility knife
• Standard/Flathead screwdriver.
The Power Connector: The power
connector plugs into a power input
block on the Smoke Alarm. It supplies
the unit with AC power.
Both locking features use
locking pins, which are
molded into the mounting
Locking Pin
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.
• 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.
To permanently remove either lock insert a flat-
head screwdriver between the locking pin and the
lock, and pry the pin out of the lock.
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To Lock The Battery Compartment
(Models 4120B and 4120SB Only)
To Unlock The Battery Compartment
(Models 4120B and 4120SB Only)
Once the Smoke Alarm is installed, you must
disconnect it from the AC power before unlocking
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.
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.
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.
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.”
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.
2. Disconnect the power connector by gently prying
it away from the back of the Smoke Alarm.
3. Insert a flathead screw-
driver under the head of
the locking pin, and gen-
tly pry it out of the bat-
tery compartment lock.
(If you plan to relock the
battery compartment,
save the locking pin.)
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To Unlock the Battery Compartment (continued)...
To Unlock The Mounting Bracket
4. To relock the battery compartment, close the
battery door and reinsert locking pin in lock.
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.
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.
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.
To Lock The Mounting Bracket:
1. Using needle-nose
pliers, detach one
locking pin from the
mounting bracket.
1. Insert a flathead
screwdriver between the
mounting bracket pin and
the mounting bracket.
2. Insert the locking pin into the lock located on the
pivoting hinge of the battery door.
2. Pry the Smoke Alarm away from the bracket by
turning both the screwdriver and the Smoke
Alarm counterclockwise (left) at the same time.
3. When you attach the Smoke Alarm to the mount-
ing bracket, the locking pin’s head will fit into a
notch on the bracket.
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HOW TO INSTALL THIS SMOKE ALARM
This unit is designed to be mounted on any standard
wiring junction box up to a 4-inch size, on either the
ceiling or wall. Read “Where to Install Smoke Alarms”
and “Where Not To Install Smoke Alarms” before you
begin installation. If a junction box is not already in
place, install one using standard #12 or #14 gauge
solid copper Appliance Wiring Material (AWM).
1
3
2
2
6
BATTERY BACK-UP ON
MODELS 4120SB AND 4120B ONLY:
3
4
5
7
8
Activate the battery back-up by removing the “Pull to
Activate Battery Back-Up” tab. You do not need to
open the battery compartment and reposition the
battery during installation.
9
The Parts of This Unit
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Mounting Bracket
Mounting Slots and Screws
Locking Pins (break out of bracket)
Hot (Black) AC Wire
Neutral (White) AC Wire
Interconnect Wire
When the battery is activated, the red light will
shine continuously for 5-10 seconds, then begin to
flash about once a minute.
Latch to Open Battery Compartment
Swing-Out Battery Compartment
Quick-Connect Power Connector
Test the battery back-up. Press and hold the test
button on the cover until the alarm sounds.
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4. Position the base of the Smoke Alarm over the
mounting bracket and turn. The Alarm can be posi-
tioned over the bracket every 60°. Turn the Smoke
Alarm clockwise (right) until the unit is in place.
INSTALLING A SINGLE (STAND-ALONE)
SMOKE ALARM
Tools you will need: Standard/Flathead screwdriver.
5. If you are only installing one unit, restore power to
the junction box.
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.
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.
To install this unit, follow these steps:
1. Remove the mounting bracket from the base, and
attach it to the junction box.
6. Make sure the unit is receiving AC power. Under
normal operation, the Green power indicator light
will shine continuously.
2. Using wire nuts, connect the power connector to
the household wiring.
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.
• 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.
3. Plug the power connector
into the back of the
Smoke Alarm.
Model 4120SB Only: During installation, if you
accidentally press the Silence button, the alarm will
“chirp” once a minute for up to 15 minutes and the Test
feature will be temporarily disabled. This is normal.
The “chirping” will stop once the alarm returns to
normal operation.
11
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INTERCONNECTING MULTIPLE SMOKE ALARMS
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 sens-
es smoke, all units will alarm. To determine which smoke
alarm initiated an alarm, see table:
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:
BRK Electronics® Smoke Alarm Models 100S,
2002RAC, 4120, 4120B, 4120SB, 4919, 5919,
5919TH, RM3 (Relay Module); BRK Electronics®
Heat Alarm Model HD6135F; and First Alert® Smoke
Alarm Models SA4120B, SA4121B, SA4919B, SA86B,
SA100B.
On Intiating Alarms
On All Other Alarms
Red LED(s) flashes(flash) rapidly
Red LED is Off
All wiring must conform to all local electrical codes
and Article 760 of NFPA 70 (NEC). Refer to NFPA 72,
NFPA 101, and/or your local building code for further
connection requirements.
Interconnected units must meet ALL of the
following requirements:
• A maximum of 18 compatible units may be
interconnected (Maximum of 12 smoke alarms).
AC and AC/DC Smoke Alarms can be intercon-
nected. 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.
• 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). The
interconnect wire should be #18 gauge or larger,
rated at least 300V.
• If an interconnect wire is not already part of your
household wiring, you will need to install one.
This type of wire is commonly available at
Hardware and Electrical Supply stores.
Interconnect units within a single family residence
only. Otherwise all households will experience
unwanted alarms when you test any unit in the series.
Failure to meet any of the above requirements
could damage the units and cause them to
malfunction, removing your protection.
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Interconnecting Multiple Smoke Alarms
• 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.
6
7
8
B
A
}
}
5
4
3
5
4
3
2
4. Plug the power connector into the back of the
Smoke Alarm.
5. Position the base of the Smoke Alarm over the
mounting bracket and turn. The Alarm can be
positioned over the bracket every 60°. Turn the
unit clockwise (right) until the unit is in place.
1
1
A
Unswitched 120V AC
60 Hz Source
4
5
Wire Nut
B
To Additional Units
Maximum = 18 (Max.
12 Smoke Alarms)
Junction Box
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.
1
2
3
Smoke Alarm
6
7
8
Neutral (White) AC Wire
Interconnect Wire
6. Make sure each unit is receiving AC power. Under
normal operation, the Green power indicator light
will shine continuously.
Ceiling or Wall
Power Connector
Hot (Black) AC Wire
To install and interconnect multiple alarms:
7. Test each Smoke Alarm. Press and hold the test
button until the unit alarms.
When testing a series of interconnected units you
must test each unit individually. Make sure all
units alarm when each one is tested.
1. Remove mounting bracket from the base. Position
screw slots on mounting bracket over screws in
the junction box. Tighten screws.
2. Strip off about 1/2” (12 mm) of the plastic coating
on the orange wire on the power connector.
NOTE: When power is applied, unit(s) may alarm
momentarily.
3. Using wire nuts, connect the power connector to
the household wiring.
• Connect the white wire on the power connector
to the neutral wire in the junction box.
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.
• Connect the black wire on the power connector
to the hot wire in the junction box.
13
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When testing a series of interconnected units you
must test each unit individually. Make sure all units
alarm when each one is tested.
Model 4120SB Only: During installation, if you
accidentally press the Silence button, the alarm will
“chirp” once a minute for up to 15 minutes and the
Test feature will be temporarily disabled. This is
normal. The “chirping” will stop once the alarm
returns to normal operation.
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.
TESTING AND MAINTENANCE
WEEKLY TESTING
• Gently vacuum off any dust on the cover at
least once a month using your vacuum’s soft
brush attachment. Test the unit after vacuuming
the cover.
• Never use water, cleaners or solvents since they
may damage the unit.
• Relocate the unit if it sounds frequent unwanted
alarms. See “Where Not To Install Smoke
Alarms” for details.
• Models 4120SB and 4120B Only: 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 imme-
diately to continue your protection.
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). If you choose
to use an aerosol smoke product to test the
smoke alarm, be certain to use one that has been
Listed to Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. Safety
Standards, and use it only as directed. Use of non-
UL Listed products or improper use of UL Listed
products may affect the Smoke Alarm’s sensitivity.
Models 4120SB and 4120B Only:
Choosing a replacement battery:
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:
Your Smoke Alarm’s battery back-up requires one stan-
dard 9V battery. The following batteries are acceptable
as replacements. This list supplements the list on the
Smoke Alarm battery door: Eveready #216, #522
(Energizer), #1222; Duracell #MN1604, MX1604 (Ultra);
Gold Peak #1604P, #1604S; Rayovac 1604, D1604. You
may also use a Lithium battery like the Ultralife U9VL-J
for longer service life between battery changes. These
batteries are available at many local retail stores.
3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps, pause.
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Most carbon zinc batteries have an average service life
of 1 year; most alkaline batteries have an average serv-
ice life of 1-2 years; most Lithium batteries have an
average service life of 6-10 years. Actual 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”).
IF THIS SMOKE ALARM SOUNDS
If the alarm sounds and you are not testing it, it is
warning you of a potentially dangerous situation
that requires your immediate attention.
and fan the smoke away from the unit (Model
4120SB Only: use the Silence Feature to silence the
alarm). This will silence the alarm, and once the
smoke clears the unit will reset itself automatically.
NOTE: 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.
NEVER ignore any alarm. Ignoring the alarm may
result in injury or death. If the unit alarms and you
are not absolutely certain of the source of the
smoke, get everyone out of the house immediately.
Responding To An Alarm
Never disconnect the AC power to quiet an
unwanted alarm. Disconnecting the power
disables the Smoke Alarm so it cannot sense
smoke. This will remove your protection.
If the unit alarms and you are not absolutely certain of
the source of the smoke, get everyone out of the
dwelling immediately. Stay calm and follow your family
escape plan. Stay as low to the ground as possible,
and cover your mouth with a damp cloth. Never open a
door before testing to see if it is hot. Call the Fire
Department from outside, and give them your address
then name. Read “What To Do In Case Of Fire” at the
end of this manual for more information. If the unit
alarms and you are certain that the source of smoke
is not a fire—cooking smoke or an extremely dusty fur-
nace, for example—open a nearby window or door
ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD: Attempting to dis-
connect the power connector from the unit when
the power is on may result in electrical shock,
serious injury or death.
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3. While the units are in the “silence mode,” the test
buttons will not operate. The alarms cannot be
tested while in the silence mode.
MODEL 4120SB ONLY—
USING THE SILENCE FEATURE
The Silence feature on this unit can temporarily quiet
an unwanted alarm for several minutes.
4. The “chirping” on the initiating alarm will stop
once the unit returns to normal operation.
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 a fire can result in
property loss, injury, or death.
The Silence feature on these units can temporarily
quiet an unwanted alarm for up to 15 minutes. To use
this feature, press the “Push to Silence” button on the
cover. Once you activate it, you will hear a reminder
“chirp” about once a minute (for up to 15 minutes)
and the Test feature is temporarily disabled. The
“chirping” will stop once the unit returns to normal
operation. 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.
While the unit is in the “silence mode,” the test button
will not operate. The Alarm cannot be tested while in
the silence mode.
To silence Smoke Alarms
in an interconnected series:
1. To silence multiple alarms in an interconnected
series, you must press the silence button on the
unit(s) that triggered the alarm.
NOTE: The red light under the silence button on the
initiating alarm will flash rapidly. The red light will be
off on all other Smoke Alarms.
2. Once you activate the Silence feature, you will
hear a reminder “chirp” on the initiating alarm
about once a minute (for up to 15 minutes).
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PROTECTING YOUR FAMILY FROM FIRE
Putting up Smoke Alarms is just one step in protect-
ing your family from fires. You must also reduce the
chance a fire will start in your dwelling, and have a
plan for escaping safely if one does. To have a good
fire safety program, you must:
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.
Develop a family escape plan and practice it with
everyone in your family, including small children.
1) Draw a floor plan of your residence and identify
at least two exits from each room and one way to
get out of each bedroom without opening the door;
2) Decide on a meeting place a safe distance from
residence, and make sure everyone knows to wait
there; 3) Know where to go to call the Fire
4) Keep electrical appliances in good condition and
don’t overload electrical circuits.
5) Keep stoves, barbecue grills, fireplaces and
chimneys free from grease and debris.
6) Never leave anything cooking on the stove
unattended.
Department from outside the residence; 4) Make sure
everyone—including all children—know what the
alarm signal means and how to react to it. Teach them
they must be prepared to leave the residence by
themselves if needed; 5) Hold fire drills every 6
months and practice how to escape safely. Show
children how to check if doors are hot before opening
them. Show them how to use an alternate exit if a
door is hot and shouldn’t be opened. Teach them to
stay close to the floor and crawl if necessary.
7) Keep portable heaters and open flames, like
candles, away from flammable materials.
8) Don’t allow rubbish to accumulate.
Install at least one Smoke Alarm on every level of your
dwelling and/or dwelling unit, in every bedroom, and
in every sleeping area. Keep alarms clean, and test
them weekly. Replace smoke 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.
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WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF FIRE
IF YOUR SMOKE ALARM
NEEDS SERVICE
• Don’t panic; stay calm. Follow your escape plan.
Your safe escape may depend on thinking clear-
ly and remembering what you have practiced.
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.
• Get out of the dwelling as quickly as possible.
Don’t stop to get dressed or collect anything.
• Feel doors with the back of your hand before
opening them to see if they are hot. If a door is
cool, open it slowly. Don’t open a hot door—use
an alternate escape route.
If this unit is not working properly, there are a few
simple things you should check before returning or
replacing the unit.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a cloth (prefer-
ably wet). Take short, shallow breaths.
• Keep doors and windows closed, unless you
need to escape through them.
• Make sure it is clean as described in ”Regular
Maintenance.” A build-up of dirt, dust or grease
can affect the units performance.
• Make sure the unit is installed in a proper
location. If you experience frequent unwanted
alarms, try relocating it. See “Where To Install
Smoke Alarms” for details.
• Make sure it is receiving AC power from the
household current. Check that the back-up
battery is fresh and still providing back-up
protection.
• Meet at your planned meeting place outside
your home, and do a head count to make sure
everyone 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 more ideas on mak-
ing your home safer, and on creating your own family
escape plan.
If the unit is still not operating properly, and it is still
under warranty, send it, shipping prepaid to: BRK
Brands, Inc., Attn: Consumer Affairs, 3920 Enterprise
Court, Aurora, IL 60504-8132. Enclose a note in the
package describing what’s wrong with the unit. See
warranty information at the end of this manual.
Do not try to fix the unit yourself—this will void
your warranty!
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TROUBLESHOOTING
ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD. Always TURN OFF POWER before checking connections or disconnecting
any Smoke Alarm!
Problem....
You should...
Smoke Alarm sounds when
no smoke is visible.
• Clean the Smoke Alarm. (See “Testing and Maintenance.”)
• Check the location of the Alarm. (See Where To Install Smoke Alarms.”)
• Check if you accidently pushed the Test Button.
You experience frequent
unwanted alarms (like in
response to cooking smoke)
• Check the location of the Smoke Alarm. The smoke alarm may be too close
to a kitchen, cooking appliance, or steamy bathroom. (See “Where To
Install Smoke Alarms.”)
Smoke Alarm chirps
intermittently.
• Check all AC connections for proper installation. (See “How To Install This
Smoke Alarm” and “Testing and Maintenance”.)
• Check that the battery is installed correctly and is working properly. (See
“How To Install This Smoke Alarm” and “Testing and Maintenance”.)
• Check the location of the Alarm. (See “Where To Install Smoke Alarms.”)
• Clean the Smoke Alarm. (See “Testing and Maintenance.”)
• You may have accidently pressed the Silence Button.
Alarm horn doesn’t sound
during testing.
Interconnected units do not
alarm during testing.
• Check that the batteries are installed correctly and are working properly. (See
“How To Install This Smoke Alarm” and “Testing and Maintenance”.)
• Check all AC connections for proper installation. (See “How To Install This
Smoke Alarm” and “Testing and Maintenance”.)
• You may have accidently pressed the Silence Button.
During installation the
alarm “chirps” once a
minute.
• You may have accidently pressed the Silence Button. The Smoke Alarm
should return to normal operation after 15 minutes. If the chirping persists
try installing a new 9V battery.
If you still have questions after reading this manual, please call Consumer Affairs, Monday-Friday, 7:30 am-5pm
(Central Time): 1-800-323-9005.
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SPECIAL COMPLIANCE CONSIDERATIONS
This unit alone is not a suitable substitute for complete fire detection systems in places housing many
people—like apartment buildings, condominiums, hotels, motels, dormitories, hospitals, long-term health
care facilities, nursing homes, day care facilities, or group homes of any kind—even if they were once
single-family homes. 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 unit may be
used to provide additional protection in these facilities.
The following information applies to all four types
of buildings listed below:
Institutions:
Hospitals, day care facilities, long-term health care
facilities. This type of unit is suitable for use in
individual patient sleeping/resident rooms, provided
a primary fire detection system already exists to meet
fire detection requirements in common areas like
lobbies, hallways, or porches. Using this type of
unit in common areas may not provide sufficient
warning to all residents or meet local fire protection
ordinances/regulations.
In new construction, most building codes require the
use of AC or AC/DC powered Smoke Alarms only. AC,
AC/DC, or DC powered Smoke Alarms can be used in
existing construction as specified by local building
codes. Refer to NFPA 72 (National Fire Alarm 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.”
Hotels/Motels:
Single-Family Residence:
Single family dwelling, townhouse.
Also boarding houses and dormitories. This type of
unit is suitable for use inside individual sleeping/resi-
dent rooms, provided a primary fire detection system
already exists to meet fire detection requirements in
common areas like lobbies, hallways, or porches.
Using this type of unit in common areas may not
provide sufficient warning to all residents or meet
local fire protection ordinances/regulations.
Multi-Family or Mixed Occupant Residence:
Apartment building, condominium. This type of unit
is suitable for use in individual apartments or condos,
provided a primary fire detection system already
exists to meet fire detection requirements in common
areas like lobbies, hallways, or porches. Using this
type of unit in common areas may not provide
sufficient warning to all residents or meet local
fire protection ordinances/regulations.
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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 them. They are not foolproof.
battery back-up (see “Other Features Of 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 cannot work without power. Battery
operated units cannot work if the batteries are miss-
ing, disconnected or dead, if the wrong type of batter-
ies are used, or if the batteries are not installed cor-
rectly. 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 con-
cerned about the limitations of battery or AC power,
install both types of units.
Smoke Alarms may not be heard. Though the
alarm horn in this unit meets or exceeds current UL
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 con-
ditioner 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 cannot detect fires if the smoke
does not reach them. 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 have time to alarm before
the fire itself causes damage, injury, or death, since
smoke from some fires may not reach the unit imme-
diately. Examples of this include persons smoking in
bed, children playing with matches, or fires caused by
violent explosions resulting from escaping gas.
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 recom-
mended 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
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.
installing interconnected AC powered units with
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10-YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY
Coverage: BRK Brands, Inc. ("BRK") the maker
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.
of BRK Electronics® brand products, warrants
that for a period of 10 years from the date of
purchase, this product will be free from defects
in material and workmanship. BRK, at its
How to Obtain Warranty Service
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 prod-
uct of equal or greater value This is your exclusive warranty.
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 to 5:00
PM, Central Standard Time, Monday through Friday. To assist
in serving you, please have the model number and date of pur-
chase available when calling.
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.
Battery: BRK Brands, Inc. make no warranty, express or
implied, written or oral, including that of merchantability or fit-
ness for any particular purpose with respect to battery.
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.
Please record Date and Where Purchased:
_____________________________________________
BRK shall not be liable for any incidental or consequential dam-
ages 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 for to the duration of the above warranty.
Some states, provinces, or jurisdictions do not allow the exclu-
sion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages or lim-
itations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above
BRK Brands, Inc.
3901 Liberty Street Road, Aurora, IL 60504-8122
Consumer Affairs: 1-800-323-9005
All Rights Reserved. ©2001 BRK Brands, Inc.
BRK Electronics® is a registered
trademark of BRK Brands, Inc.
M06-2016-008 08/01
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