Atwood Carbon Monoxide Detector Manual: A Comprehensive Guide
This comprehensive guide provides essential information for understanding, installing, and maintaining your Atwood Carbon Monoxide (CO) detector. Ensure your safety by familiarizing yourself with its features, functions, and troubleshooting steps. This guide helps protect you from CO poisoning.
Understanding Atwood CO Detector Models
Atwood offers various carbon monoxide (CO) detector models designed for residential and recreational vehicle (RV) use. These detectors are engineered to detect CO buildup, ensuring the safety of occupants. Models like the 900-0143-LPM and 900-0140-LPM are commonly used. Some models also incorporate propane (LP) detection capabilities. It’s crucial to identify your specific model to understand its unique features and specifications, including power requirements, sensor types, and alarm characteristics; Consulting the model-specific user manual is highly recommended to ensure proper operation and maintenance, safeguarding against potential CO hazards.
Key Features and Functions
Atwood CO detectors boast LED indicators for power, propane, CO, and faults. Audible alarms signal danger, while some models display CO levels on an LCD. Understanding these features is vital for safety.
Power, Propane, Carbon Monoxide, and Fault LED Indicators
The Atwood CO detector uses LED indicators to communicate its status. A flashing power LED may indicate a power supply fault, while a steady light shows normal operation. If equipped, the propane LED indicates whether the propane alarm function is enabled or disabled. A carbon monoxide LED alerts you to the presence of dangerous CO levels. Finally, the fault LED warns of internal malfunctions requiring attention or possible detector replacement, ensuring optimal safety.
Audible Alarm Signals and What They Mean
Atwood CO detectors use distinct audible alarm signals to communicate various states. A rapid, continuous beeping usually indicates the presence of dangerous carbon monoxide levels, requiring immediate evacuation. A chirp every 15-30 seconds often signals a low battery or alarm malfunction, necessitating battery replacement or device servicing. Understanding these distinct sound patterns ensures you can quickly identify and respond to potential hazards, protecting you and your family from carbon monoxide poisoning and other potential risks.
Installation Guidelines
Proper installation is vital for accurate carbon monoxide detection. Follow these guidelines to ensure your Atwood CO detector functions effectively, providing reliable protection; Correct placement maximizes its ability to detect CO leaks.
Optimal Placement for Accurate Detection
For optimal performance, install your Atwood CO detector on a wall, approximately five feet from the floor. This height allows the detector to effectively monitor the air for carbon monoxide, as CO is slightly lighter than air and tends to rise. Locate the detector near sleeping areas to ensure you are alerted while resting. Positioning near potential CO sources, like propane appliances is a great strategy. Ensure it’s not obstructed by curtains or furniture for optimal airflow and detection capabilities, improving overall safety.
Locations to Avoid During Installation
Avoid installing your Atwood CO detector in locations that could compromise its functionality. Do not place it in or near kitchens and bathrooms where steam, grease, or humidity are present. Garages should also be avoided due to vehicle exhaust. Dead air spaces such as vaulted ceilings should be avoided. Keep it away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Do not put it near curtains or other objects. These environments can cause false alarms or damage the detector. Make sure it’s not obstructed by anything that will block airflow.
Operation and Usage
Proper operation and usage are vital for safety. Learn initial setup, testing, and interpreting CO levels. Understand alarm responses for timely action. Regular testing ensures functionality. Be aware of LCD readings if present.
Initial Setup and Testing Procedures
Upon installation of your Atwood CO detector, perform initial setup. Ensure power is correctly supplied, typically hardwired to the battery. Then, conduct a thorough test. Press the test button and listen for the audible alarm, confirming its functionality. Check that the appropriate LED indicators illuminate. Regular testing, ideally weekly or monthly, guarantees ongoing protection. This verifies the sensor’s ability to detect CO, ensuring the alarm sounds. If the alarm fails during testing, consult the troubleshooting section. Replace the detector immediately if needed.
Recognizing Carbon Monoxide Levels Displayed on LCD (if applicable)
If your Atwood CO detector includes an LCD, understanding the displayed readings is vital. The LCD shows CO levels in parts per million (PPM). A reading of 0 PPM indicates no CO detected. Higher PPM values signify increasing CO concentrations. At elevated levels, the alarm should sound. Refer to your manual for specific PPM thresholds. These indicate the alarm’s activation points. Note any changes in CO level readings. This assists in identifying potential CO sources. Act promptly if elevated levels are displayed. Ensure adequate ventilation and evacuate if necessary.
Troubleshooting
Addressing issues with your Atwood CO detector promptly ensures reliable operation. This section provides guidance on diagnosing and resolving common problems. This includes frequent beeping, flashing lights, and error codes. Consult your manual for detailed troubleshooting steps.
Addressing Frequent Beeping and Chirping Sounds
Frequent beeping or chirping from your Atwood carbon monoxide detector typically indicates a problem requiring attention. Check the detector’s age; most have a lifespan of around seven years, after which they signal end-of-life. A low battery can also cause chirping, even in hardwired models. Consult your manual to identify the specific beep pattern and its corresponding meaning, as it could indicate a malfunction, low battery, or the presence of carbon monoxide. Replacing the detector is often the best solution for end-of-life signals.
Interpreting Flashing Lights and Error Codes
Atwood carbon monoxide detectors use flashing lights and, if equipped, error codes to communicate their status. A red flashing light often indicates a propane leak or CO detection, demanding immediate action. Consult your specific Atwood model’s manual to accurately decipher the meaning of each flashing sequence or displayed error code. The manual will outline the problem and suggest troubleshooting steps. Power supply faults, sensor malfunctions, or disabled alarm functions can all trigger unique visual signals, so referencing your manual is crucial for proper interpretation.
Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance ensures your Atwood CO detector functions correctly. Regular cleaning, following recommended upkeep, and understanding hard reset procedures (if available) are essential. This section details how to extend your detector’s life and reliability.
Cleaning and General Upkeep Recommendations
To ensure accurate CO detection, regularly clean your Atwood detector. Use a soft cloth to gently wipe the exterior, removing dust and debris. Avoid using liquids or cleaning agents that could damage the sensor. Vacuuming around the detector can prevent dust buildup. Inspect the unit regularly for any signs of damage or wear. Proper upkeep maximizes the detector’s effectiveness and lifespan, safeguarding you from carbon monoxide exposure. Consistent maintenance ensures reliable performance. Ignoring these recommendations may lead to malfunctions or false alarms, compromising safety.
Hard Reset Procedures (If Available)
If your Atwood CO detector malfunctions, a hard reset might resolve the issue. Check your specific model’s manual to confirm if a reset function is available. Typically, this involves disconnecting the power source (if possible) and pressing a reset button or sequence of buttons. Refer to the manual for precise steps; After resetting, test the detector to ensure it functions correctly. If problems persist, consult the manufacturer or a qualified technician. Note that not all models have a hard reset option, so always consult the manual.
End-of-Life Indicators and Replacement
Atwood CO detectors have a limited lifespan. Recognizing end-of-life signals, such as persistent chirping, is crucial. Replace your detector when these indicators appear. Refer to the manual for recommended replacement models to ensure continued safety.
Recognizing End-of-Life Signals
Your Atwood carbon monoxide detector has a defined lifespan, typically around seven years from the manufacturing date. After this period, the sensor’s ability to accurately detect CO diminishes. The detector will enter an “end-of-life” mode, which is indicated by specific signals. These signals often include consistent, persistent chirping or beeping that occurs at regular intervals, even after replacing the battery. Some models might display a specific error code on their LCD screen. Consult your user manual immediately if you notice these patterns, as it means the detector needs replacement.
Recommended Replacement Models
When your Atwood carbon monoxide detector reaches its end-of-life, prompt replacement is essential for continued protection. Consider replacing it with a newer Atwood model or a comparable CO detector designed for RV or residential use. Look for models that meet current UL2034 standards and feature both CO and propane detection for comprehensive safety. Ensure the replacement detector is compatible with your existing wiring, if applicable. Models like the Atwood RV Carbon Monoxide and Propane Gas Detector (AT36681) are often recommended as direct replacements, providing similar functionality and reliability. Always refer to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Safety Information
Prioritize your safety by understanding carbon monoxide risks and prevention. Learn the limitations of your Atwood detector, knowing it won’t detect smoke, fire, or other gases. Regular maintenance and awareness are crucial for protection.
Carbon Monoxide Awareness and Prevention
Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless, and deadly gas produced by incomplete combustion. Common sources include furnaces, stoves, water heaters, and vehicle exhaust. Early symptoms of CO poisoning can mimic the flu, including headache, dizziness, and nausea. It’s essential to install and maintain a working Atwood CO detector to provide early warning. Prevent CO buildup by ensuring proper ventilation of appliances, regularly inspecting exhaust systems, and never using fuel-burning devices indoors. Understanding the risks and taking preventive measures can save lives.
Limitations: What the Detector Does Not Detect (Smoke, Fire, Other Gases)
It’s important to recognize that an Atwood carbon monoxide (CO) detector is specifically designed to detect the presence of carbon monoxide. It will not detect smoke, fire, or other dangerous gases such as propane, natural gas, or methane. A separate smoke detector is crucial for fire safety. The Atwood CO detector also does not detect other poisonous gases. Having appropriate detectors for each specific hazard is essential for comprehensive safety. Relying solely on a CO detector will not protect against other threats.