Every apartment is fitted with multiple 240V hardwired, photoelectric smoke alarms. Photoelectric alarms detect combustion particles, designed for fast response to smouldering fires and to minimise false alarms.
These alarms are mains powered with wired interconnection and will provide an audible alarm at all locations simultaneously in the event of an alarm occurring. Only the originating smoke alarm will have a flashing RED LED.To provide backup power, units are fitted with one 9V battery. The battery will operate the alarm for approximately one to three months without mains power supply, it will last approximately one year under normal operating conditions. Battery replacement is recommended every 12months to all alarms within your apartment. Please note, the alarm cannot be closed without the battery in place.
Alarms should be replaced 10 years from date of installation by a licenced electrician.
If the protective cover is still in place on move-in, please remove it.
The individual smoke detectors within your apartment are not connected to the fire brigade (Queensland Fire & Emergency Services or QFES).
Apartments and common areas are serviced by a sprinkler system. The sprinklers are activated by the presence of heat, triggering the warning system that alerts the fire brigade and building evacuation alarm via the ceiling speaker installed within your apartment.
Maintenance
The smoke alarms are virtually maintenance free. However, if there is any dust or lint buildup around the smoke alarm a vacuum cleaner may be used to clean the exterior of the unit (including slots on the cover) every six months.
Monthly use of a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush to vacuum all sides and cover of the alarm is advised.
Do not immerse in or spray units with household cleaners.
Testing your smoke alarm
All smoke alarms should be tested on a monthly basis. Before testing make sure that the smoke alarm is connected to the AC power supply and the GREEN LED is ON.
- Test by pushing the “TEST/HUSH” button on the smoke alarm for three seconds until the alarm sounds. The RED LED will flash rapidly.
- Ensure to wait 10 minutes before additional testing is conducted to avoid any false alarm responses as product has reduced sensitivity during this period.
- Do not apply excessive force on the “TEST/HUSH” button as this may damage the smoke alarm and may void the warranty.
To silence your smoke alarms
- If the alarm sounds, first ensure there is no danger. Do not assume it is a false alarm. Carefully check all surrounds for the presence of smoke.
- Once it has been determined there is no danger, press the HUSH button on the triggered alarm (flashing RED LED) to desensitise the alarm for 10 minutes.
- Interconnected alarms can only be silenced by identifying and hushing the triggered alarm.
- The red LED may appear faint in a well lit room.
- There maybe a slight delay in silencing the smoke alarm if it is mid-way through the alarming sequence.
- After the 10 minute dormant period, the smoke alarm will resume normal operation.
Troubleshooting
- Your smoke alarm ‘chirps’ every 48 seconds, indicating a fault with your alarm such as a low battery. Your smoke alarm will warn of a low battery for at least 30 days. Failure to replace the battery (or the smoke alarm) after this time could result in you not being alerted in the case of a fire.
- Photoelectric smoke alarms are sensitive to high humidity, steam and dust.
- Insects are also a common cause for triggering smoke alarms. The smoke alarm internal sensor can be triggered by dust and bugs inside the unit. Regularly dust and vacuum your smoke alarm as per supplier maintenance guide.
- Additional design measures have been taken to ensure smoke alarm reliability in humid conditions. However, smoke alarms can confuse dense humid air particles for smoke particles in extreme humidity and may occasionally trigger smoke alarms.