First Alert SCO5CN Battery Operated Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm

Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm

First Alert Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms work exceptionally well in detecting smoldering fires. Leaps in ingenuity and technology have allowed this alarm to successfully decipher between nonhazardous and potentially life threatening smoke patterns. The realization of Photoelectric Smoke Sensing Technology will effectively reduce the number of nuisance alarms triggered by cooking smoke and shower steam. This alarm comes equipped with a Mute Button that serves the dual purpose of quickly silencing your alarm as well as testing its function.

Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms utilize an Electrochemical Sensor that allows for optimal efficiency in detecting carbon monoxide. This alarm also comes equipped with an EZ access battery door that removes the hassle and burden of collecting your alarm from the ceiling and replacing its batteries. The combination of an End of Life Timer and an increased emphasis on the unit's 85db sound output establish peace of mind, while the inclusion of Dual Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Sensing all but guarantees the safest of experiences. This alarm carries a 7 year limited warranty and complies with UL217 and UL2034 Standards.

This Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm is for you if:

You want the protection of 2 alarms in one: smoke and carbon monoxide.

Where To Place Carbon Monoxide Alarms:

One on every level of the home and one in each sleeping area.

Where To Place Smoke Alarms:

One in every bedroom, and at least one on every level of the home.

First Alert Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm SCO5CN

* California Residents - Please Note This Alarm is Not Compliant with California State 10 Year Sealed Battery Alarm Legislation Requirements.

Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Features:

Dual smoke & carbon monoxide sensing, ultimate protection from two deadly dangers.
Photoelectric smoke sensing, optimal protection from smoldering fires. plus, reduces false alarms like those caused by cooking fires and shower steam.
Mute button, mutes unnecessary alarms immediately. also tests alarm function with same button.
Eco-friendly, completely recyclable as an electronic device.
EZ access battery drawer, no need to remove alarm from ceiling to change battery.
Low battery signal mute, quiets low battery signal for up to 8 hours.
Electrochemical sensor, most accurate technology available for detecting carbon monoxide* *compared to other common sensing technologies.
End of life timer, alarm chirps when it is time to replace it.
2 AA batteries included.
Loud 85db alarm.
7-year limited warranty, carbon monoxide alarms should be replaced every 5 years for maximum protection.
Meets UL217 & UL2034 standards.
Emits T3 Pattern.
Product Dimensions (LxWxH): 5 x 2 x 5 in.

Product Specs

UPC:

029054856920

MPN:

SCO5CN

Click Here to Write a Review for this Product.

Average Customer Rating Based on 115 reviews:

Highly recomend buying from the First Alert website - 05/16/2018
Reviewer: Richard Frazee
The First Alert smoke and carbon monoxide alarm in our motor coach reached its end of life date and so I was looking for a similar unit to replace it. Looked on Amazon, Granger and a few other suppliers. None had a proper description of the unites they were selling. Some where higher priced a few were lower priced but nowhere did they assure me that the alarm I was getting was a current product and not something that had been sitting on a shelf for a couple of years. The First Alert site was easy to understand what I was buying. The product came quickly.

- 04/30/2018
Reviewer: Cathy Hosman
I ordered this to replace an existing smoke detector. Like that both carbon monoxide and smoke detector are combined and that new detector fits into existing hardware

- 04/25/2018
Reviewer: Rene van Doorn
Solid protection

Direct from the Source - 04/19/2018
Reviewer: Ralph Berg
Great product at a great price. I ordered direct from First Alert and saved money.

Battery Smoke and CO Alarm - 04/19/2018
Reviewer: Thomas Concolino
Nice unit arrived promptly and easy to install.

Twice the protection - 04/16/2018
Reviewer: Charles Jester
These units take care of two protections at the same time......smoke and carbon monoxide, all in one small unit.

Great Value! - 04/04/2018
Reviewer: Thomas Concolino
I looked locally in Home Depot and Walmart to replace 3 Kidde units installed by the fire dept. 10 years ago. Purchasing a three pack was cheaper and it included shipping. Easy to install. Could use some of the same holes left from the Kidde units. Would buy from the First Alert Store again.

Very Pleased - 03/09/2018
Reviewer: Peter Petruzzi
Very happy with this model. Been around for a while. Easy battery access. Easy spin on one off.

Alert - 01/22/2018
Reviewer: Diana Cardona
Love it. Easy to install.

Combination Alarm - 01/19/2018
Reviewer: Steve Morris
Like the convenience of a single unit covering both Fire and Carbon Monoxide.

Combo Unit - 01/09/2018
Reviewer: Steve Morris
Really like the combo unit that has a Fire and Carbon Monoxide all built into one unit. Also like the discount three pack, wish they offered a five and seven pack.

alarm - 01/04/2018
Reviewer: kathy brick
perfect fit

- 12/18/2017
Reviewer: Jay Abrams
Product is good, no problem with installation, all 3 tested fine.

customer service - 12/12/2017
Reviewer: frank nado
In my opinion your customer service is the best. My problem was handled fast and solved to our satisfaction. I would like to thank you again . frank

Replacement for sco5 - 12/07/2017
Reviewer: rose goldstein
After speaking to one of the representatives from First Alert, I am happy to report that the replacement for my smoke/carbon monoxide alarm was the correct one.

- 11/07/2017
Reviewer: Stephen Poster
everything excellent no complaints

- 10/24/2017
Reviewer: Judy Golab
Exactly what I needed. Could not find model in store, online quick and easy. Love the delivery tracking !

Smoke/mox Combo Alarm - 10/23/2017
Reviewer: Ronald Reagles
Great product. Received quickly and installed same day. Thanks First Alert!! RR Spearfish SD

safety - 08/21/2017
Reviewer: Crystal Hanson
Very easy to install and is great for any home I would say everyone should have at least two

- 05/30/2017
Reviewer: David Rosenthal
This unit was to a replace an existing unit which had deteriorated. My main concern was a replacement which would match both functionally and mechanically.

UP-Date - 05/02/2017
Reviewer: James Chieco
I replaced dead Carbon Monoxide and a working smoke detector. A home inspector recommended the upgrade. Good price ordered on weekend received in 4 days.

SC05CN - 03/27/2017
Reviewer: Jim Lombardo
I like this Alarm because it uses 2 AA batteries and does Carbon Monoxide and smoke

Replacement CO and smoke drtector - 03/04/2017
Reviewer: Carl Johnson
Product worked out exactly as I wanted...ever time before when I replaced my detectors mount I always had to re-drill new holes and plaster over the old... no one in town had any that fit ..this one did!! Great!!

- 02/14/2017
Reviewer: Michael Richey
Great deal for the price

Great Buy - 01/30/2017
Reviewer: Michael Richey
I am well pleased with my purchase and couldn't got them any cheap anywhere else. I like having a two in one deal and battery they replace two others that were old ones.

SWEET SERVICE - 01/06/2017
Reviewer: Larry Brugger
By mistake mine I double ordered. I sent an Email and got a FAST reply and they took immediate action. I am astounded at the Sweet Service. Very rare nowadays But VERY APPRECIATED

Best Alarms ever - 12/27/2016
Reviewer: Corleen Law
Very happy with these alarms

- 12/12/2016
Reviewer: Denise Anthony
Great product for the price. It arrived sooner than expected

- 12/12/2016
Reviewer: M S Kayes
A good product that does what is advertised.

Reliable product - 11/27/2016
Reviewer: Christopher Ying
Replacement for an existing First Alert smoke and CO detector. Reliable, easy to use and install. Website is also simple to order from.

Very Good Quality - 11/14/2016
Reviewer: David Wolden
Does everything it's supposed to. Great product!

Smoke/CO Detectors - 10/29/2016
Reviewer: Martin Mamigonian
Very easy to install nice to have both smoke and CO detectors as one unit

Easy replacement - 10/26/2016
Reviewer: Thomas Voorhees
I needed to replace an old CM alarm and was looking for a replacement that would fit over the current screws. Perfect fit, a smoke alarm too and I got it cheaper through FirstAlert.com than a local retailer. Win win!!!

Great product! - 09/21/2016
Reviewer: Kathryn Macrie
Product was just what I needed to replace an old one. Price was very good! Fast delivery, too.

Good product and no problems - 08/29/2016
Reviewer: Progressive Builders Inc
Although the product and everything about it seemed at least good when I installed these 4, the shipping was extremely prompt and I liked being able to purchase direct from the manufacturer. Recommend it highly.

Great - 08/08/2016
Reviewer: Jessica Grignon
it was as expected

Pretty good units - 07/14/2016
Reviewer: OK Paek
These are low cost and reliable, for the most part. You do get some false alarms with steam showers if located too close.

replacement purchase - 07/14/2016
Reviewer: Dvorah Preil
I was satisfied with the original so it made sense to buy a replacement from you, and it was so easy and pleasant. My second alarm needs a replacement, so I know where to place my next order.

Cost effective and reliable - 06/29/2016
Reviewer: OK Paek
This detector is both cost effective and reliable for both smoke and CO.

- 05/02/2016
Reviewer: Mike Van Hoey
great service, timely delivery

- 04/25/2016
Reviewer: Stephen McConnell
A very easy and straightforward installation using the same holes as our earlier model. I like the battery installation drawer, easy testing and finally getting rid of the false alarms in the kitchen. We feel safe, thanks be to God

Happy again - 04/18/2016
Reviewer: Alice Grover
We were delighted to discover that our model,since it had been several years since we installed its First Alert predecessor, could have its batteries replaced. We will take the new one with us to our new home.

Best in its class - 04/11/2016
Reviewer: Marie OBrien
I will be honest and say I have not yet used it as the building may buy instead but everyone who has seen raves that it looks and sounds better than their current.

- 03/30/2016
Reviewer: Gerald H Baker
Perfect.

David Casiraghi - 03/29/2016
Reviewer: david casiraghi
easy to install

- 03/13/2016
Reviewer: d clay
I chose this unit because it was very similar to what I was replacing, and it fit the ceiling mount. The previous First Alert unit worked well, it just died around its advertised life limit. No issues with the new unit.

- 03/07/2016
Reviewer: Donald Diliberto
Excellent.

- 02/12/2016
Reviewer: DAVID SEXTON
Very good service. Thank you!

- 02/03/2016
Reviewer: Ronald Randall
Just what I wanted. Easy to install!

Liked it, no problems at all - 01/13/2016
Reviewer: Rana K Singh
I liked it, no problems at all. Easy to install

Battery Detector - 12/28/2015
Reviewer: Jack Skoglund
Unit is very easy to set-up and install. It is a good combination unit for my application.

- 12/11/2015
Reviewer: james deneys
Love the combination smoke & carbon monoxide alarm

smoke and carbon monoxide alarm - 11/16/2015
Reviewer: Terry Friend
received it in good shape, works good so far and no complaints.

- 07/27/2015
Reviewer: david smith
great product thanks

combination smoke alarm - 07/06/2015
Reviewer: Terry Friend
It showed up on time, so far, so good. We will always use First Alert.

- 06/22/2015
Reviewer: E Jean
I received the appliance rather quickly. It was easy to install and works very well. Thank you.

- 03/19/2015
Reviewer: Deborah Shelby
What we ordered was exactly what we needed. We were able to easily replace the existing ones with the new ones. Our others were wired as a circuit and had battery backup but also plugged in. We had major problems with them.

combo smoke and co - 03/13/2015
Reviewer: Jim Lombardo
chose product because family member had one for 7 years no problem

Smoke Alarm - 03/03/2015
Reviewer: Troy Wells
I replaced another First Alert smoke alarm, due to it malfunctioning. I like the products first alert puts out.

- 02/25/2015
Reviewer: george hughes
I am sure that the combination smoke and carbon monoxide units will work well in my motor home. I was glad to find a unit like this. Good job!

Dual Detectors - 02/16/2015
Reviewer: Kerrie Volau
Easy to Install. Dependable product. This is not my first purchase of First Alert products. Thank you for making my home safer.

Excellent Product - 02/12/2015
Reviewer: Annette Miller
It was easy! No problems! No false alarms!

- 01/28/2015
Reviewer: Dennis Frates
Nice product. Easy install.

Great product - 12/30/2014
Reviewer: Jonathan Goode
Excellent product and prompt delivery! My family feels safer for sure.

- 12/29/2014
Reviewer: daniel flynn
every thing went great. fast delivery

- 12/15/2014
Reviewer: daniel flynn
the alarm was delivered very quickly and everything was great.

- 12/15/2014
Reviewer: CHRISTIAN J BUEHLER
very quick turn-around time and batteries are included

Life Saver - 12/09/2014
Reviewer: Chris Silva
I like that they have made the item a bit more compact but you may have to paint the previous wall area if your replacing an older model.

- 08/23/2014
Reviewer: from seattle
Good product

Smoke/carbon monoxide - 06/30/2014
Reviewer: Mary Felter
Thanks, First Alert, for making nthe smoke/carbon monoxide alarm still. We have been pleased with the alarm in the past, and happy you still make it because we were able to screw it to our hall ceiling easily. It wasnt necessary to put up the new plate. Thanks for getting it to us so quickly, too.

Im buying a second one - 05/12/2014
Reviewer: Jennifer Trachtman
Prompt service. Product is as described.

Dual detectors are death traps - 04/04/2014
Reviewer: tom
Dual detectors are death traps, where would you mount it too work. For CO2 it has to be close to the floor around the height of the outlets and smoke needs to be mounted up high on wall close to or on ceiling. So if you have a duel depending on where you mount it you will die from smoke or CO2.

- 03/13/2014
Reviewer: Michael Osborn
Product was ordered to replace older models in the house we purchased as it is a necessity to have for safety purpose to protect ones life and ones property. The value for the product was such that we ordered two as we have a small one level home. The fact that one product takes care of two specific needs is a bonus. Our package arrived in due time with batteries already in place and now we rest assured that we are being protected by your product. We would recommend it in a heart beat. Thank you for having our best interest in mind when developing products to help keep us safe...

- 03/12/2014
Reviewer: David O Cole
Great

Excellent product - 02/17/2014
Reviewer: Alan Loosararian
Excellent service, quick delivery and easy installation. I would buy from First Alert again, and recommend to others.

- 02/09/2014
Reviewer: Sharon Vonasek
Alarms easy to install. LIKE the combo alarms. Thank you

- 02/05/2014
Reviewer: Christine Gutke
It was time to replace our smoke alarm and it is great that they have a combination one!! It came to us in a very timely manner!!

Convenient Combination - 01/28/2014
Reviewer: John Sprague
I bought 2 to replace a similar model that did smoke and carbon monoxide also, after about 3 days I ended up changing the batteries in both alarms that they came with after they started to do the low battery beep, they did come with Duracell and were not expired so it was just annoying because it happened in the middle of the night.

ordered 4 of these - 12/30/2013
Reviewer: Laura Meyer
Received all 4 smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in time for Christmas, and hopefully none of my Children will ever hear them go off because that would mean they are in trouble, but hopefully these will save their lives.

- 12/19/2013
Reviewer: Eugene Rogal
very good product, and pleasant working with ordering dept

5 - Very Good - 11/25/2013
Reviewer: G Khalsa
Quick and efficient delivery. Product was quite easy to install. Design is non-intrusive.

- 11/22/2013
Reviewer: R Steven Sutton
Product arrived very quickly easy to install and it is one purchase I hope I never have to use!

Combo alarm - 10/15/2013
Reviewer: Rosemary Frizzell
Easy to install-replaced old smoke detector-feel more secure with combo units.

Excellent smoke/carbon alarms - 09/19/2013
Reviewer: Stephanie Smith
This is an excellent product. Easy to install and other than replacing the battery maintenance free.

- 08/07/2013
Reviewer: Debora Cooley
I like the look of the detector and no issue thus far.

- 05/07/2013
Reviewer: Daniel Bourren
Excellent product

- 03/25/2013
Reviewer: Stephen Bird
Easy to install. Seems to work.

- 03/12/2013
Reviewer: David Sanborn
Easy to put up and does just what we want it to do!

- 03/11/2013
Reviewer: Bruce Thompson
Recieved product fast. Was just what we were looking for. Installed easily and quickly. Great buy for the money.

Battery case difficult to open - 02/19/2013
Reviewer: KashaP
I have always purchased First Alert products. Love the features that are included on various models such as using TV remote to silence a nuisance alarm. However, this combo smoke/CO product has a battery compartment that is horrible to open once the unit is a couple of years old. In the video for this product, the battery compartment slides out easily. Not so on my unit. As this thing is chirping at me to change the batteries, I am pushing and pulling and pressing, trying to open the compartment. I finally logged onto this sight, watched the video and then used a screwdriver to pry open the stuck compartment to change the old batteries. Plastic on plastic warps just enough as it ages to jam these drawers, at least on my unit.

- 02/08/2013
Reviewer: Edgar Brown Sr
Easy ordering. Excellent web site. Quality product. Quick delivery.

Apartment Manager - 12/24/2012
Reviewer: Nancy Chao
One of the installed unit at the one-bedroom apartment complaint was it sounds off when he/she showered or cooked. We attempted to reposition the unit in various spot, but still the same. My handy person said perhaps he/she smokes that triggered the smoke alarm. I am ording a CO only unit to replace. All other units [11] had no complaints.

THE BEST THERE IS - 11/12/2012
Reviewer: ROBERT SALTZMAN
I HAVE AHOME WHERE PROPANE GAS IS USED REGULARLY. WE HAD A GAS LEAK AND YOUR PORODUCT WAS A LIFE SAVER. EASY TO INSTALL

- 11/05/2012
Reviewer: anthony horwath
works well delivery was prompt

- 10/31/2012
Reviewer: Sandy Victor
It doesnt suck. Hard to open battery compartment.

- 10/29/2012
Reviewer: Joe Kubelka
Seems well made nice choice of bell tones easy installation no problems with wireless door bell button hook-up.

combo alarm - 10/07/2012
Reviewer: DEBRA DICKERSON
Very good product, as is all the other smoke slarms I have purchased.

- 10/03/2012
Reviewer: James Donohue
easy to install and operate...an excellent product

- 08/21/2012
Reviewer: Thomas Flood
Pleased will very prompt delivery and excellent product. Plan to use First Alert for similar products.

Carbon Monoxide/Smoke - 03/28/2012
Reviewer: Dennis Passwater
I saw on TV an ad about smoke alarms have life span of 10 years. So I went to the carbon monoxide/smoke alarm first, and it had a date of Feb 2000! I next checked the one in the stairwell, it was also Feb. but the year was 1999, so I placed another order for it. The one in hallway is a combo, ones in stairwell is both single, just replaced smoke alarm as it had a date of 1988. All were/are First Alert, that is the only I will buy!!

Excellent Product - 03/21/2012
Reviewer: Aaron Williams
I have done business with the first alert store before and have always had an excellent experience. Very happy to find that the new mounting bracket could utilize existing screws installed for a prior model from 1998. As this was a replacement unit and I did not want to drill more holes in the ceiling. Also, very fast shipping and extremely easy installation.

- 03/17/2012
Reviewer: Mary Lou Herlugson
We replaced alarms three of the alarms in our house with this one. It was easy to do, instructions were easy to follow.

- 02/03/2012
Reviewer: Dominick Vitolo
easy to install! Seems to be working.

- 01/26/2012
Reviewer: Rosemary Arvelo
It was easy to order online and easy to install. Im very satisfied with my purchase.

- 01/24/2012
Reviewer: JANICE HEDIN
We have been using First Alert products for years and were very happy to be abe to order on-line. This combo is the ONLY one we use. Placing order was a breeze and i was delivered quickly and in perfect condition. Couldnt ask for anything better/

- 09/22/2011
Reviewer: Rita Piccone
I am replacing the one that I had and liked it so much that I replaced it with the same manufacturer and style.

- 09/16/2011
Reviewer: Rudolph van der Hiel
I like the fact that the smoke alarm and carbon monoxide alerts are combined in one unit. It makes installation much easier

Cost Effective Life Saver - 08/03/2011
Reviewer: Fire Marshall Bill
Upon receiving my combination smoke and CO detector alarm I immediately tested it. After pushing in its sleek designed battery drawer, the alarm went through its general test alarms which indicated the batteries worked. I then pushed the alarm test buttons to activate the sounds to make sure they worked. Then went to my kitchen, I put the alarm in a ziplock bag, turned on my stove, blew out the pilot, and waited 1-minute. Then unzipped the bag, pulled out the alarm, held it over the burner, and within 3-seconds the alarm went off for CO of course, I opened windows afterwards and reset my pilot light. I also tested the alarm using wooden matchsticks that were lit and blown out to produce smoke, and the alarm detected what little smoke there was. The push to stop alarm button worked just fine. For $39 at the first alert store, this is a steal considering that they retail for upwards of $60 in hardware stores. I highly recommend it due to its great cost/value ratio and 5-year warranty which covers the amount of time you need to replace an alarm like this anyway! Besides, in 5-years Im sure FA will have improved on the technology by then. Buying one will help fund their future research as well, so go for it. FA is the best out there.

- 07/16/2011
Reviewer: Andra Morgan
So far everything is working just fine. Installation was easy.

- 06/06/2011
Reviewer: John Rosenberg
very good

Excellent Purchase - 06/01/2011
Reviewer: Mary Myles
I was very happy with this purchase. The price was reasonable. It was easy to install and I liked the fact that you can use double a batteries.Also I love that there is a nuisance button.

- 05/31/2011
Reviewer: chrissy alberti
perfect

- 04/25/2011
Reviewer: Frances Ribisi
I like it that is a sleek design.

- 04/11/2011
Reviewer: Adair Small
Compact, unobtrusive, easy to use.

Good Combo - 05/16/2009
Reviewer: Beverly Nagle
This model works very well for our family.

Read All Reviews

Q: How often do you need to change the batteries?

A: Actual battery service life depends on the particular design of your smoke or carbon monoxide alarm and the environment in which it is installed. All kinds of alarm batteries specified in the user's manual are acceptable replacement batteries. Regardless of the manufacturer's suggested battery life, you MUST replace the batteries immediately once the unit starts "chirping" (the "low battery warning"). It is recommended that you change the batteries in your alarms when you change your clocks for daylight saving time. Also consider replacing your current alarms with 10-Year Life alarms that never require a costly battery replacement for the ten year life of the alarm. This 10-Year series is available in smoke, carbon monoxide and combination alarms.

Q: What is the proper placement of smoke alarms?

A: It is important that you have the proper placement for your smoke alarms. Install your alarms at least 20 feet from appliances like furnaces and ovens, which produce combustion particles. Alarms should be at least 10 feet from high humidity areas like showers and laundry rooms, and at least 3 feet from heat/AC vents. Be sure to install a smoke alarm in each bedroom, one at the top of each stairwell, and one on every level.

Q: My smoke alarm keeps chirping and beeping. Why does my smoke alarm chirp intermittently?

A: It is likely that the reason your smoke alarm keeps chirping and beeping is that the battery is low. Whenever your smoke alarm keeps chirping, replace the battery immediately.

Other reasons include: It could be a different device or appliance such as a security system, monitor, carbon monoxide alarm, or other device which has a similar low battery or alert signal. Some of the same factors that cause unwanted alarms can cause intermittent alarms: dust and insects in the alarm or power interruptions in hardwired alarms. Improper wiring on AC or AC/DC smoke alarms. AC alarms will chirp every 5 seconds if the interconnect wire is grounded. The orange interconnect wire should NEVER be grounded; it should only be used to interconnect other smoke alarms or compatible devices.

Q: Why doesn't my smoke alarm sound when I push the test button?

A: It is important that you frequently test your smoke alarms. When you are testing your smoke alarm, there are a number of reasons why the alarm might not sound:

You may not be holding the test button down long enough. Try holding it down for up to 10 seconds (20 seconds on photoelectric models) .
Your battery may not be installed properly or snapped all the way in place. Even if the alarm sounded briefly when the battery touched the terminals, you still need to make sure it is snapped securely in place. If the battery is loose, in cannot power the smoke alarm properly. After installing new batteries, be sure to test your smoke detector.
Your AC power may not be on. AC and AC/DC units will have a power indicator light (red or green) that shines continuously when they are receiving electrical power.
If you have a 10-Year model, the smoke alarm may not have been properly activated. If the tab broke away before the alarm was activated, you can use a toothpick to move the switch over to test the alarm.

Q: Why does my smoke alarm go off when I install a battery or turn on the AC power?

A: It is normal for smoke alarms to go off and sound briefly (up to 5-10 seconds) when you install a new battery or when they are powered up. If the alarm continues to go off and no smoke is present, the cause may be one of the following:

There may be insufficient battery power, try new batteries.
Problems with voltage or insufficient electrical power (brown out) may cause a continuous weak sounding alarm. For AC or AC/DC models, temporarily disconnect power at the service panel until the brown out is over. If you do not restore the AC power, your smoke alarms cannot warn you of a fire.
Incompatible warning device. If an incompatible alarm or auxiliary device is linked into a series of AC or AC/DC smoke alarms it may cause the system inadvertently go off.

Q: My smoke alarm keeps chirping, even with a new battery. What is causing this?

A: There are a number of possible causes for your smoke alarm to keep chirping even with a new battery.

It is possible that your smoke alarm "silence" button was pushed by mistake. The alarm will now "chirp" once a minute for up to 15 minutes before resetting.
Are you sure it's the smoke alarm? Funny to ask, but other devices have similar low battery chirps or warning tones.
Your "new" batteries may not be fresh. If batteries are stored, especially in cold areas like refrigerators, they lose their charge more quickly. Always check the freshness date on the package when buying new batteries. Keep plenty of replacement batteries on hand so that you are sure to always be protected by your smoke alarms.

Q: I lost my First Alert smoke alarm owner's manual. How can I get a new one?

A: First Alert smoke alarm owner's manuals are available online for download at no cost. Find your alarm in our Smoke Alarms section.

Q: Why does the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommend that home smoke alarms be replaced after 10 years?

A: Smoke alarms have a limited life. Although each smoke alarm and all of its parts have passed many stringent tests and are designed to be as reliable as possible, any of these parts could fail over time. Therefore, you must test the devices weekly. The unit should be replaced immediately if it is not operating properly. The performance of smoke alarms older than 10 years is simply not reliable. To ensure your family's safety, all carbon monoxide and smoke/CO combination alarms need to be replaced every 5-7 years. All smoke alarms need to be replaced every 10 years.

If it's time to replace your alarms, consider the NEW 10-Year Life series and never have to worry about a battery replacement for the life of the alarm.10-Year alarms are available in smoke,carbon monoxide and combination alarms.

Q: How do I get my carbon monoxide alarm to stop chirping?

A: If your carbon monoxide alarm keeps chirping, the battery may be low or weak. On First Alert carbon monoxide detectors, check to see if the battery light is yellow or green. If the alarm is chirping and the light is yellow, it means the battery is low. The way to get a carbon monoxide alarm to stop chirping is to replace the battery.

Q: Where should I install carbon monoxide alarms? What is proper carbon monoxide alarm placement?

A: It is very important to install carbon monoxide alarms near or in each separate sleeping area. Many states now require that a carbon monoxide alarm is placed in each bedroom. For added protection, placement of an additional carbon monoxide alarm at least 15-20 feet away from the furnace or fuel burning heat sources is recommended. Also, install carbon monoxide alarms at least 10 feet from sources of humidity like bathrooms and showers. In two story houses, install one carbon monoxide alarm on each level of the home. If you have a basement, carbon monoxide alarm placement is recommended at the top of the basement stairs.

Q: Is there anywhere I shouldn't install carbon monoxide alarms?

A: Do not install carbon monoxide alarms in garages, kitchens, furnace rooms, or in any extremely dusty, dirty, humid, or greasy areas. Do not install alarms in direct sunlight, or areas subjected to temperature extremes. These include unconditioned crawl spaces, unfinished attics, un-insulated or poorly insulated ceilings, and porches. Carbon monoxide alarms should not be installed in outlets covered by curtains or other obstructions. Do not install in turbulent air-near ceiling fans, heat vents, air conditioners, fresh air returns, or open windows. Blowing air may prevent carbon monoxide from reaching the CO sensors.

Q: How many carbon monoxide alarms should I have in my home?

A: So how many carbon monoxide alarms should you have in your home? The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends that you should have a carbon monoxide alarm centrally located outside of each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedroom. For added protection, you should have additional carbon monoxide alarms in each separate bedroom and on every level of your house, including the basement. Some states now require that you have a carbon monoxide alarm in each bedroom of the house. If you install only one carbon monoxide alarm in your home, place it near or in your bedroom.

Q: What is the proper way to do a carbon monoxide alarm test?

A: The following procedure is the proper way to do a carbon monoxide alarm test - Press and hold the Test Button on the front of the alarm until the alarm sounds. Be sure you hold the button down long enough; it can take up to 20 seconds for the alarm to respond to the test.

Q: Is it a false alarm when my carbon monoxide alarm sounds and there doesn't seem to be a problem?

A: A carbon monoxide alarm false alarm should not occur if your alarm is in working order. Remember, carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas. If your carbon monoxide alarm went off, it detected potentially harmful amounts of carbon monoxide. After the professionals have evaluated the situation, make sure no one has any symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Here are a few situations that may cause a carbon monoxide alarm "false alarm:"

The carbon monoxide alarm needs to be relocated. Carbon monoxide alarms should be located 15-20 feet away from all fossil fuel burning sources like furnaces and stoves. Alarms should be located 10 feet away from sources of humidity like showers.
Fossil fuel burning appliances may not be burning fuel completely. Check pilot lights/flames for blue color. Appearance of yellow or orange flames indicates incomplete combustion-a source of carbon monoxide.

Q: Will carbon monoxide alarms detect explosive gas leaks?

A: No, a single function carbon monoxide alarm reacts to carbon monoxide only. To detect explosive gas, you need an explosive gas detector. Different kinds of explosive gas can be detected and it is recommended that any home that utilizes natural or propane gas have at least one explosive gas leak detector.

Q: I'm ready to change my alarm battery - what replacement batteries can I use?

A: Check your User's Manual or the nameplate on the back of the alarm. Different smoke detectors & CO alarms use different kinds of batteries - 9V, AA, AAA - it all depends on the particular model you have. Use quality batteries like lithium batteries - having plenty of power is worth any extra cost. Never use rechargeable batteries because they may not always provide a consistent charge.

First Alert SCO5CN Manual

Ordering a large quantity? Click the image below to send a bulk order request to our friendly sales staff who can create a quote and provide personal service for your order! Enter the information requested below and our sales staff will respond in 1-2 business days. (Monday through Friday 8am-5pm CST)