(550 0324 01) GN_300 Series Product Manual GN 503
User Manual: Product Manual GN-503 - Gentex
Open the PDF directly: View PDF 
.
Page Count: 12
PHOTOELECTRIC TYPE
SINGLE/MULTIPLE STATION
SMOKE ALARM AND
ELECTROCHEMICAL CARBON
MONOXIDE ALARM,
AC POWERED, WITH 9VDC
BATTERY BACK-UP
GN-503 SERIES
COMBINATION
PHOTOELECTRIC SMOKE
& CARBON MONOXIDE (CO)
ALARM
LIMITED WARRANTY
For a period of 12 months from the date of purchase, or a maximum of 18 months from the
date of manufacture, Gentex warrants to you, the original consumer purchaser, that your
smoke/CO Alarm will be free from defects in workmanship, materials, and construction under
normal use and service. The CO sensor has a limited warranty period of 5 years from date of
installation.If a defect in workmanship, materials, or construction should cause your smoke/CO
Alarm to become inoperable within the warranty period, Gentex will repair your smoke/CO
Alarm or furnish you with a new or rebuilt replacement smoke/CO Alarm without charge to you
except for postage required to return the smoke/CO Alarm to us. Your repaired or
replacement smoke/CO Alarm will be returned to you free of charge and it will be covered
under this warranty for the balance of the warranty period.
This warranty is void if our inspection of your smoke/CO Alarm shows that the damage or
failure was caused by abuse, misuse, abnormal usage, faulty installation, improper
maintenance, or repairs other than those performed by us.
ANY WARRANTIES IMPLIED UNDER ANY STATE LAW, INCLUDING IMPLIED
WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE,
APPLY ONLY FOR THE WARRANTY PERIOD SPECIFIED ABOVE. PLEASE NOTE THAT
SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON HOW LONG AN IMPLIED WARRANTY
LASTS, SO THE ABOVE EXCLUSION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
GENTEX WILL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY LOSS, DAMAGE, INCIDENTAL OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OF ANY KIND ARISING IN CONNECTION WITH THE SALE,
USE, OR REPAIR OF THIS SMOKE/CO ALARM. PLEASE NOTE THAT SOME STATES DO
NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES. SO THE ABOVE EXCLUSION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
If a defect in workmanship, materials, or construction should cause your Smoke/CO Alarm
to become inoperable within the warranty period, you must return the smoke/CO Alarm to
Gentex postage prepaid. You must also pack the smoke/CO Alarm to minimize the risk of it
being damaged in transit. You must also enclose a return address. smoke/CO Alarms
returned for warranty service should be sent to: Gentex Corporation, 10985 Chicago Drive,
Zeeland, MI 49464.
If we receive a smoke/CO Alarm in a damaged condition as the result of shipping, we will
notify you and you must file a claim with the Shipper.
THIS LIMITED WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS. YOU MAY ALSO
HAVE OTHER RIGHTS WHICH VARY FROM STATE TO STATE.
GENTEX CORPORATION
10985 CHICAGO DRIVE,
ZEELAND, MI 49464
PHONE: 1-800-436-8391
www.gentex.com
550-0563-AAA
Important Notice:
These materials have been prepared by Gentex Corporation ("Gentex") for informational purposes only, are necessarily summary, and are not purported to serve as legal advice and should not be used as such. Gentex makes no rep-
resentations and warranties, express or implied, that these materials are complete and accurate, up-to-date, or in compliance with all relevant local, state and federal laws, regulations and rules. The materials do not address all legal
considerations as there is inevitable uncertainty regarding interpretation of laws, regulations and rules and the application of such laws, regulations and rules to particular fact patterns. Each person's activities can differently affect the
obligations that exist under applicable laws, regulations or rules. Therefore, these materials should be used only for informational purposes and should not be used as a substitute for seeking professional legal advice. Gentex will not
be responsible for any action or failure to act in reliance upon the information contained in this material.
NOTE: GENTEX LEGACY PRODUCTS INCLUDE 9120, 9123
7100, 7103, 710CS, 713CS, 7109CS, 7139CS, GN-200, GN-203,
GN-300 AND GN-303 SERIES. THESE PRODUCTS WILL NOT
ACTIVATE FOR A CO EVENT WHEN TANDEM
INTERCONNECTED TO A GENTEX CO OR SMOKE/CO ALARM.
05/01/2012
PHOTOELECTRIC TYPE SINGLE/MULTIPLE STATION SMOKE ALARM AND
ELECTROCHEMICAL CARBON MONOXIDE ALARM, AC POWERED,
WITH 9VDC BATTERY BACK-UP
Installation Instructions - Owner's/User’s Information Manual -READ CAREFULLY AND SAVE
INTRODUCTION GN-503 SERIES
The GN-503 Series combination photoelectric smoke alarm and electrochemical
carbon monoxide (CO) alarm is listed for use as an evacuation device in all dwelling
units. The device has a solid state piezo signal to warn and alert the household to
the presence of threatening smoke and carbon monoxide.
Your combination smoke/CO alarm is designed to detect the smoke that results
from an actual fire or carbon monoxide gas. Consequently, it is uncommon for
household smoke such as cigarette smoke or normal cooking smoke to cause an
alarm.
BASIC SAFETY INFORMATION
Dangers, Warnings, Cautions and Notices alert you to important operating
procedures or to potentially hazardous situations. Pay special attention to these
items.
This combination photoelectric smoke/CO alarm is listed for use in single-family
and multi-family residences, along with hotels, motels and other commercial
residential occupancies.
This CO alarm will only indicate the presence of increased levels of carbon
monoxide gas at the sensor. Increased levels of carbon monoxide gas may be
present in other areas.
This combination smoke/CO alarm must receive continuous 120VAC, 60Hz ,
pure sine wave electrical power (battery is meant for emergency back-up only).
In order for the emergency battery back-up to work, a new battery must be
properly installed (see BATTERY INSTALLATION section).
NEVER ignore your combination smoke/CO alarm if it sounds. Refer to IF
YOUR SMOKE/CO ALARM SOUNDS section for more information. Failure to
do so can result in serious injury or death.
Test this device once a week. If the device ever fails to test correctly, replace
immediately! If the device is not working properly, it can not alert you to a
problem.
This product is intended for use in indoor locations of family dwelling units. It is
not designed to measure CO levels in compliance with Occupational Safety and
Health Administration (OSHA) commercial or industrial standards. Individuals
with medical conditions that may make them more sensitive to carbon
monoxide may consider using warning devices which provide audible and visual
signals for carbon monoxide concentrations under 30 ppm. For additional
information on carbon monoxide and your medical condition, contact your
physician.
MODELS
*GN-503..........................120VAC, 60Hz with temporal horn
* These units produce a temporal 3 audible alarm for smoke alarm notification. Per
NFPA 72, the American National Standard Audible Emergency Evacuation Signal as
defined in ANSI S3.41, is required whenever the intended response is to evacuate the
building. These units also produce a temporal 4 audible alarm for carbon monoxide
alarm notification, per NFPA 720.
OPTIONS
F - 1 Form A/1 Form C Auxiliary Relay
FF- 2 Form A/2 Form C Auxiliary Relays
ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS
OPERATING VOLTAGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .120VAC, 60Hz
OPERATING CURRENT. . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . .. . . . . . . .. . . . . . . .. . . . . 0.045 amps
OPERATING AMBIENT TEMPERATURE RANGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..40OF to 100OF
ALARM HORN RATING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . .. meets or exceeds 85dBA at 10 feet
NOTICE: IN THE EVENT AC POWER FAILS, A 9VDC BATTERY WILL PROVIDE
PROPER ALARM OPERATION FOR A MINIMUM OF 24 HOURS.
GN-503 SERIES
COMBINATION PHOTOELECTRIC
SMOKE & CARBON MONOXIDE (CO) ALARM
Under normal conditions, the light generated by the pulsing infrared LED is not
seen by the light sensor, as it is positioned out of the direct path of the light beam.
When smoke enters the sensing chamber, light from the pulsing LED light source is
reflected by the smoke particles onto the photodiode light sensor. At the first
sighting of smoke, the device is put into a pre-alarm mode. This is indicated by a
rapidly flashing red LED on the face of the smoke/CO alarm.
Once the light sensor confirms smoke for 2 consecutive pulses inside the
chamber, the light sensor produces the signal necessary to trigger the device and
sound the electronic horn. This smoke alarm features a permanently installed
sensor, an indicator light and an 85dBA, temporal 3 alarm horn. The device will
continue to alarm until the smoke is no longer sensed in the chamber.
Smoke Alarm Temporal 3 Activation Signal: NFPA 72, 2010 Edition A.29.3.5: The
standard fire alarm evacuation signal is a three-pulse temporal pattern using any
appropriate sound. The pattern consists of the following in this order:
(1) an “on” phase lasting 0.5 second ± 10 percent.
(2) An “off” phase lasting 0.5 second ± 10 percent for three successive “on” periods.
(3) An “off” phase lasting 1.5 seconds ± 10 percent.
GENERAL INFORMATION - CARBON MONOXIDE ALARM
NOTICE: CO PROBLEMS CAN OCCUR AT ANY TIME.
When fully powered, the device samples the air and takes a new reading about
every 30 seconds. A microchip inside the unit stores each reading and remembers
the levels of CO it has been exposed to over time. The CO portion of the
smoke/CO alarm will sound when it has been exposed to a critical level of CO
(measured in parts per million or ppm) within a specified time (measured in
minutes). This CO alarm features a permanently installed sensor, an indicator light
and an 85dBA, temporal 4 alarm horn. It also has a reset feature to temporarily
quiet the alarm horn. If critical levels of CO remain, the alarm will re-activate and
sound.
Carbon Monoxide Alarm Temporal 4 Activation Signal: NFPA 720, 2012 Edition:
5.8.6.5.1: The audible carbon monoxide alarm signal shall comply with the following:
(1) Signals shall be a single tone pattern consisting of four cycles of 100
milliseconds ± 10 percent “on” and 100 milliseconds of ± 10 percent “off,” followed
by 5 seconds ± 10 percent “off.”
(2) After the initial 4 minutes of alarm, the 5-second “off” time shall be permitted to
be changed to 60 seconds ± 10 percent.
(3) The alarm signal shall be repeated in compliance with 5.8.6.5.1 (1) and
5.8.6.5.1 (2) until the alarm resets or the alarm signal is manually silenced.
550-0563
Pg. 5-2
HOW THE SMOKE/CO ALARM WORKS
GENERAL INFORMATION - SMOKE ALARM
The GN-503 Series alarm operates on the photoelectric light scatter principle for
the smoke sensor and electrochemical sensing principal for the CO sensor. The
device’s sensing chamber houses a light source and a light sensor.
For smoke detection, the darkened sensing chamber is exposed to the
atmosphere and designed to permit optimum smoke entry from any direction while
rejecting light from outside the smoke/CO alarm.
The light source is an infrared (invisible) LED which pulses every 30 seconds to
detect smoke. The light sensor is a photodiode matched to the light frequency of
the LED light source.
c. Open doors carefully only after feeling to see if they are hot. Do not open a
door if it is hot; use an alternate escape route.
d. Stay close to the floor; smoke and hot gases rise.
e. Cover your nose and mouth with a cloth, wet if possible, and take short, shallow
breaths.
f. Keep doors and windows closed unless you open them to escape.
g. Meet at your prearranged meeting place after leaving the house.
h. Call the Fire Department as soon as possible from outside your house. Give the
address and your name.
i. Never re-enter a burning building.
Contact your local Fire Department for more information on making your home
safer from fires and about preparing your family's escape plans.
NOTICE: CURRENT STUDIES HAVE SHOWN SMOKE/CO ALARMS MAY NOT
AWAKEN ALL SLEEPING INDIVIDUALS, AND THAT IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY
OF INDIVIDUALS IN THE HOUSEHOLD THAT ARE CAPABLE OF ASSISTING
OTHERS TO PROVIDE ASSISTANCE TO THOSE WHO MAY NOT BE
AWAKENED BY THE ALARM SOUND, OR TO THOSE WHO MAY BE INCAPABLE
OF SAFELY EVACUATING THE AREA UNASSISTED.
WHAT THIS SMOKE/CO ALARM CAN DO: SMOKE DETECTION
This smoke/CO alarm is designed to sense smoke entering its sensing chamber.
It does not sense heat or flames.
When properly located, installed, and maintained, this smoke/CO alarm is
designed to provide early warning of developing fires at a reasonable cost. This
device monitors the air and, when it senses smoke, activates its built-in alarm horn.
It can provide precious time for you and your family to escape from your residence
before a fire spreads. Such an early warning, however, is possible only if the
smoke/CO alarm is located, installed, and maintained as specified in this User's
Manual.
NOTICE: THIS SMOKE/CO ALARM IS DESIGNED FOR USE WITHIN SINGLE
RESIDENTIAL LIVING UNITS ONLY; THAT IS, IT SHOULD BE USED INSIDE A
SINGLE-FAMILY HOME OR ONE APARTMENT OF A MULTI-FAMILY BUILDING.
IN A MULTI-FAMILY BUILDING, THE DEVICE MAY NOT PROVIDE EARLY
WARNING FOR RESIDENTS IF IT IS PLACED OUTSIDE OF THE RESIDENTIAL
UNITS, SUCH AS ON OUTSIDE PORCHES, IN CORRIDORS, LOBBIES,
BASEMENTS, OR IN OTHER APARTMENTS. IN MULTI-FAMILY BUILDINGS,
EACH RESIDENTIAL UNIT SHOULD HAVE SMOKE/CO ALARMS TO ALERT THE
RESIDENTS OF THAT UNIT. DEVICES DESIGNED TO BE INTERCONNECTED
SHOULD BE INTERCONNECTED WITHIN ONE FAMILY RESIDENCE ONLY;
OTHERWISE, NUISANCE ALARMS WILL OCCUR WHEN A SMOKE/CO ALARM
IN ANOTHER LIVING UNIT IS TESTED.
NOTICE: WHAT SMOKE/CO ALARMS CANNOT DO: SMOKE
DETECTION
Smoke/CO alarms will not work without power. A battery must be connected
to the device to maintain proper operation if AC power supply is cut off by an
electrical fire, an open fuse or circuit breaker, or for any other reason. In the event
of AC power failure, the battery will supply power for a minimum of 24 hours.
Smoke/CO alarms may not sense fire that starts where smoke cannot
reach the units such as in chimneys, in walls, on roofs, or on the other side of
closed doors. If bedroom doors are usually closed at night, smoke/CO alarms
should be placed in each bedroom as well as in the common hallway between
them.
Smoke/CO alarms also may not sense a fire on another level of a
residence or building. For example, a second-floor device may not sense a
first-floor or basement fire. Therefore, smoke alarms should be placed on every
level of a residence or building.
The horn in your device meets or exceeds current audibility requirements of
ANSI/UL 217 and ANSI/UL 2034. However, if the smoke/CO alarm is located
outside a bedroom, it may not wake up a sound sleeper, especially if the
bedroom door is closed or only partly open. If the device is located on a different
level of the residence than the bedroom, it is even less likely to awaken people
sleeping in the bedroom. In such cases, the National Fire Protection Association
recommends that the smoke/CO alarms be interconnected so that a unit on any
level of the residence will sound an alarm loud enough to awaken sleepers in
closed bedrooms. This can be done by employing a systematic approach by
interconnecting smoke/CO alarms together, or by using radio frequency transmitters
and receivers.
All types of smoke/CO alarm sensors have limitations. No type of device
can sense every kind of fire every time. These types of fires include:
1) Fires where the victim is intimate with a flaming initiated fire; for example,
when a person’s clothes catch on fire while cooking.
2) Fires where the smoke is prevented from reaching the smoke/CO alarm
due to a closed door or other obstruction.
3) Incendiary fires where the fire grows so rapidly that an occupant’s egress
is blocked even with properly located smoke/CO alarms.
In general, smoke/CO alarms may not always warn you about fires caused
by violent explosions, escaping gas, improper storage of flammable materials,
or arson. 550-0563
Pg. 5-3
NOTICE: MALFUNCTION WARNING: THIS UNIT PERFORMS A SELF-
DIAGNOSTIC TEST. IF THE ALARM MALFUNCTIONS IT SHOULD BE
REPLACED IMMEDIATELY. See CHECKOUT & TROUBLESHOOTING for more
information.
HOW TO TELL IF THE SMOKE/CO ALARM IS
WORKING PROPERLY
Your device is provided with an alarm horn and flashing red Light Emitting Diode
(LED) indicator, which flashes every 15-30 seconds, and a green AC power on
LED and red flashing LED for CO event.
Test button function: when test button is pressed, the full operation of the light
source, light sensor and CO sensor circuit are verified and will initiate an
alarm.See CHECKOUT AND TROUBLESHOOTING for additional information.
If the battery is low or missing, a chirp will be emitted. If the smoke/CO alarm is
malfunctioning, two chirps will sound. If AC power fails, the green LED will turn
off. Reference Troubleshooting Guide on page 5-8.
NOTE: TANDEM INTERCONNECTED DEVICES
When testing one device, the device that is activated will flash the red indicator
light and sound its alarm horn. All other units will sound the alarm horn with
their red indicator lights remaining off.
FIRE PROTECTION PLAN: WHAT YOU CAN DO TO MAKE
YOUR FAMILY SAFE FROM FIRES
This smoke/CO alarm can quickly alert you to the presence of smoke; but
cannot prevent fire. The ultimate responsibility for fire protection rests solely on
you.
Installing smoke/CO alarms is just the first step in protecting your family from
fires. You also must reduce the chances that fires will start in your home and
increase your chances of safely escaping if one does start. To have an effective fire
safety program:
a. Install smoke/CO alarms properly following the instructions in this manual.
Keep your units clean. Test your devices weekly and have unit repaired
or replace unit it when it no longer functions. As with any electronic product,
smoke/CO alarms have a limited life, it is recommended that smoke/CO alarms
be replaced when end of life signal sounds. Smoke/CO alarms that don't work
cannot protect you.
b. Follow safety rules and prevent hazardous situations:
Use smoking materials properly; never smoke in bed.
Keep matches and cigarette lighters away from children.
Store flammable materials in proper containers and never use them near
open flames or sparks.
Keep electrical appliances and cords in good working order and do not
overload electrical circuits.
Keep stoves, fireplaces, chimneys, and barbecue grills grease- free and
make sure they are properly installed away from combustible materials.
Keep portable heaters and open flames such as candles away from
combustible materials.
Do not allow rubbish to accumulate.
Do not leave small children home alone.
c. Develop a family escape plan and practice it with your entire family,
especially small children.
Draw and post a floor plan of your home and find two ways to exit from each
room. There should be one way to get out of each bedroom without opening
the door.
Teach children what the smoke/CO alarm signal means, and that they must
be prepared to leave the residence by themselves if necessary. Show them
how to check to see if doors are hot before opening them, how to stay close
to the floor and crawl if necessary, and how to use the alternate exit if the
door is hot and should not be opened.
Decide on a meeting place a safe distance from your house and make sure
that all your children understand that they should go and wait for you if there
is a fire.
Hold fire drills at least every 6 months to make sure that everyone, even
small children, know what to do to escape safely.
Know where to go to call the fire department from outside your residence.
Provide emergency equipment such as fire extinguishers and teach your
family to use this equipment properly.
d. Bedroom doors should be closed while sleeping if a smoke/CO alarm is
installed in the bedroom. They act as a barrier against heat and smoke.
WHAT TO DO IF THERE IS A FIRE IN YOUR HOME
If you have prepared family escape plans and practiced them with your family,
you have increased their chances of escaping safely. Review the following rules
with your children when you have fire drills so everyone will remember them in a
real fire emergency. If alarm should sound:
a. Don't panic; stay calm. Your safe escape may depend on thinking clearly and
remembering what you have practiced.
b. Get out of the house following a planned escape route as quickly as possible.
Do not stop to collect anything or to get dressed.
NOTICE: THIS SMOKE/CO ALARM IS NOT DESIGNED TO REPLACE SPECIAL-
PURPOSE FIRE DETECTION AND ALARM SYSTEMS NECESSARY TO
PROTECT PERSONS AND PROPERTY IN NON-RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS
SUCH AS WAREHOUSES, OR OTHER LARGE INDUSTRIAL OR COMMERCIAL
BUILDINGS. IT ALONE IS NOT A SUITABLE SUBSTITUTE FOR COMPLETE
FIRE-DETECTION SYSTEMS DESIGNED TO PROTECT INDIVIDUALS IN
HOTELS AND MOTELS, DORMITORIES, HOSPITALS, OR OTHER HEALTH AND
SUPERVISORY CARE AND RETIREMENT HOMES. PLEASE REFER TO NFPA
101,THE LIFE SAFETY CODE, AND NFPA 72 FOR SMOKE ALARM
REQUIREMENTS FOR FIRE PROTECTION IN BUILDINGS NOT DEFINED AS
"HOUSEHOLDS."
Installing smoke/CO alarms may make you eligible for lower insurance rates, but
smoke/CO alarms are not a substitute for insurance. Home owners and renters
should continue to insure their lives and property.
NOTICE: GENERAL LIMITATIONS OF SMOKE/CO ALARMS
This smoke/CO alarm is intended for all dwelling units. It is not intended for use
in industrial applications where Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) requirements for carbon monoxide detectors must be met.
Smoke/CO alarms may not awaken all individuals. If children and others do
not readily awaken to the sound of the smoke/CO alarm or if there are infants or
family members with mobility limitations, make sure that someone is assigned to
assist them in the event of an emergency.
Smoke/CO alarms will not work without power. This smoke/CO alarm
requires a continuous supply of power.
Smoke/CO alarms for solar or wind energy users and battery
back-up power systems: AC powered smoke/CO alarms should only be operated
with true or pure sine wave inverters. Operating this device with most battery
powered UPS (uninterruptible power supply) products or square wave or “quasi
sine wave” inverters will damage the alarm. If you are not sure about your inverter
or UPS type, please consult with the manufacturer to verify.
This smoke/CO alarm will not sense carbon monoxide that does not reach
the sensor. This device will only sense CO at the sensor. CO may be present in
other areas. Doors or other obstructions may affect the rate at which CO reaches
the alarm. For this reason, if sleeping room doors are usually closed at night, we
recommend you install an alarm in each sleeping room and in the hallway of each
sleeping area.
Smoke/CO alarms may not sense CO on another level of the
residence. For example, an alarm on the second floor, near the bedrooms may not
sense CO in the basement. For complete coverage, it is recommended that an
alarm be installed on each level.
Smoke/CO alarms may not be heard. The alarm decibel rating meets or
exceeds current UL Standards of 85dBA at 10 feet (3 meters). However if the
device is installed outside the sleeping area, it may not awaken a sound sleeper,
one who has recently used drugs or has been drinking alcoholic beverages. This is
especially true if the door is closed or only partially open. Even persons who are
awake may not hear the sounding alarm if the sound is blocked by distance or
closed doors. Noise from traffic, stereo, radio, television, air conditioner, or other
appliances may also prevent alert persons from hearing the alarm horn. This
device is not intended for people who are hearing impaired.
Smoke/CO alarms are not a substitute for life insurance. Though these
devices warn against increasing CO levels, Gentex Corporation does not warrant or
imply in any way that they will protect lives from CO poisoning. Homeowners and
renters must still insure their lives.
Smoke/CO alarms have a limited life. Although the device and all of its
components have passed many stringent tests and are designed to be as reliable
as possible, any of these parts could fail at any time. Therefore, you must test your
smoke/CO alarm weekly.
Smoke/CO alarms are not foolproof. Like all other electrical devices,
smoke/CO alarms have limitations. They can only detect CO that reaches their
sensors. They may not give early warning to rising CO levels if the CO is coming
from a remote part of the home, away from the alarm. NOTICE: SMOKE/CO
ALARMS MAY NOT ALARM WHEN A LARGE INFLUX OF CO IS INTRODUCED
INTO THE HOUSE. An example of a possible source of a large in-rush of CO is a
generator running in an attached, enclosed garage and the door to the connected
residence is opened.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CO
WHAT IS CO? Carbon Monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odorless, tasteless gas
produced when fossil fuels do not burn completely or are exposed to heat (usually
fire). Electrical appliances typically do not produce CO.
These fuels include: wood, coal, charcoal, oil, natural gas, gasoline, kerosene
and propane.
Common appliances are often sources of CO. If they are not properly
maintained, are improperly ventilated, or malfunction, CO levels can rise quickly.
CO is a real danger now that homes are more energy efficient. “Air-tight” homes
with added insulation, sealed windows and other weatherproofing can ‘trap’ CO
inside.
SYMPTOMS OF CO POISONING: These symptoms are related to CO POISONING
and should be discussed with ALL household members.
Some individuals are more sensitive to CO than others,
including people with cardiac, respiratory or other health problems. Infants,
young children, pregnant women and elderly people can be more quickly and
severely affected by CO. People sensitive to CO should consult their doctors
for advice on taking additional precautions.
FINDING THE SOURCE OF CO AFTER AN ALARM
Carbon monoxide is an odorless, invisible gas, which often makes it difficult to
locate the source of CO after an alarm. A few factors that can make it difficult to
locate sources of CO include:
House well ventilated before the investigator arrives.
Problem caused by “backdrafting”.
Transient CO problem caused by special circumstances.
Because CO may dissipate by the time an investigator arrives, it may be difficult
to locate the source of CO. Gentex Corporation shall not be obligated to pay
for any carbon monoxide (CO) investigation or service call.
HOW CAN I PROTECT MY FAMILY?
A smoke/CO alarm is an excellent way of protection. It monitors the air and
sounds a loud alarm before carbon monoxide (CO) levels become threatening for
average, healthy adults.
NOTICE: A SMOKE/CO ALARM IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR PROPER
MAINTENANCE OF HOME APPLIANCES.
To help prevent CO problems and reduce the risk of CO poisoning:
Clean chimneys and flues yearly. Keep them free of debris, leaves, and nests
for proper air flow. Also, have a professional check for rust and corrosion,
cracks or separations. These conditions can prevent proper air movement and
cause backdrafting. Never cap or cover a chimney in any way, that would block
air flow.
Test and maintain all fuel-burning equipment annually. Many local gas or oil
companies and HVAC companies offer appliance inspections for a nominal fee.
Make regular visual inspections of all fuel-burning appliances. Check appliances
for excessive rust and scaling. Also check the flame on the burner and pilot
lights. The flame should be blue. A yellow flame means fuel is not being burned
completely and CO may be present. Keep the blower door on the furnace
closed. Use vents or fans when they are available on all fuel-burning
appliances. Make sure appliances are vented to the outside. Do not grill or
barbecue indoors, in garages or on screen porches.
Check for exhaust backflow from CO sources. Check the draft hood on an
operating furnace for a backdraft. Look for cracks on furnace heat exchangers.
Check the house or garage on the other side of shared wall.
Keep windows and doors open slightly. If you suspect that CO is escaping into
your home, open a window or door. Opening windows or doors can significantly
reduce CO levels.
POTENTIAL SOURCES OF CO IN RESIDENTIAL DWELLINGS
Fuel-burning appliances like: portable heater, gas or wood burning fireplace, gas
kitchen range or cooktop, gas clothes dryer, portable generators.
Damaged or insufficient venting: corroded or disconnected water heater vent
pipe, leaking chimney pipe or flue, or cracked heat exchanger, blocked or clogged
chimney opening.
Improper use of appliance/device: operating a barbecue grill, portable generator
or vehicle in an enclosed area (like a garage or screened porch), or even your
home.
EXPOSURE SYMPTOMS OF CO POISONING
Mild Slight headache, nausea, vomiting,
fatigue (flu-like symptoms)
Medium Throbbing headache, drowsiness,
confusion, rapid heart rate
Extreme
Convulsions, unconsciousness, heart and lung
failure. Exposure to carbon monoxide (CO)
can cause brain damage and death
550-0563
Pg. 5-4
FIGURE 1
FIGURE 1: POTENTIAL SOURCES OF CO IN HOME
Transient CO Problems: transient or on-again-off-again CO problems can be
caused by outdoor conditions and other special circumstances.
The following conditions can result in transient CO situations:
1) Excessive spillage or reverse venting of fuel appliances caused by outdoor
conditions such as:
Wind direction and/or velocity, including high, gusty winds. Heavy air in vent
pipes (cold/humid air with extended periods between cycles)
Negative pressure differential resulting from the use of exhaust fans
Several appliances running at the same time competing for limited fresh air
Vent pipe connections vibrating loose from clothes dryers, furnaces or water
heaters
Obstructions in or unconventional vent pipe designs which can amplify the
above situations
2) Extended operation of unvented fuel burning devices (range, oven, fireplace)
3) Temperature inversions, which can trap exhaust close to the ground.
4) Car idling in an open or closed garage or near a home.
5) Portable generator used in an open or closed garage or near a home.
These conditions can come and go. They are also hard to recreate during a CO
investigation.
PLACEMENT OF SMOKE/CO ALARMS
THIS EQUIPMENT SHOULD BE INSTALLED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE
NATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION ASSOCIATION'S STANDARD 72 (National Fire
Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269).
For your information, the National Fire Protection Association's Standard 72,
reads as follows:
PLACEMENT OF SMOKE ALARMS
THIS EQUIPMENT SHOULD BE INSTALLED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE
NATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION ASSOCIATION'S STANDARD 72 (National Fire
Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269).
For your information, the National Fire Protection Association's Standard 72, reads
as follows:
NFPA 72, 2010 Edition, Chapter 29, Section 29.5.1 Required Detection, states the
following:
29.5.1.1 Where required by applicable laws, codes or standards for a specific type of
occupancy, approved single and multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed as
follows:
1) In all sleeping rooms and guest rooms
2) Outside of each separate dwelling unit sleeping area, within 6.4m (21ft) of any door
to a sleeping room, the distance measured along a path of travel
3) On every level of a dwelling unit, including basements
4) On every level of a residential board and care occupancy (small facility), including
basements and excluding crawl spaces and unfinished attics
5) In the living area(s) of a guest suite
6) In the living area(s) of a residential board and care occupancy (small facility)
29.5.1.2 Where the area addressed in 29.5.1.1(2) is separated from the adjacent
living areas by a door, a smoke alarm shall be installed in the area between the door
and the sleeping room, and additional alarms shall be installed on the living area side
of the door as specified by 29.5.1.1 and 29.5.1.3.
29.5.1.3 In addition to the requirements of 29.5.1.1(1) through 29.5.1.1(3), where the
interior floor area for a given level of a dwelling unit, excluding garage areas, is
greater than 93m2(1000ft2), smoke alarms shall be installed per 29.5.1.3.1 and
29.5.1.3.2.
29.5.1.3.1 All points on the ceiling shall have a smoke alarm within a distance of 9.1m
(30ft) travel distance or shall have an equivalent of one smoke alarm per 46m2
(500ft2) is evaluated by dividing the total interior square footage of floor area per level
by 46m2(500ft2).
29.5.1.3.2 Where dwelling units include great rooms or vaulted/cathedral ceilings
extending over multiple floors, smoke alarms located on the upper floor that are
intended to protect the aforementioned area shall be permitted to be considered as
part of the lower floor(s) protection scheme used to meet the requirements of
29.5.1.3.1.
The installation of additional alarms of either the smoke, heat or CO type should
result in a higher degree of protection. Adding alarms to rooms that are normally
closed off from the required alarms increases the escape time because the fire does
not need to build to the higher level necessary to force smoke out of the closed room
to the required alarms. As a consequence, it is recommended that the householder
consider the installation of additional fire protection devices. However, it should be
understood that NFPA 72 does not require additional smoke alarms over and above
those called for in FIGURES 2, 3, 4 and 5 where required smoke alarms are shown.
FIGURE 5
FIGURE 4: IN DWELLING UNITS WITH MORE THAN ONE SLEEPING AREA, A
SMOKE ALARM MUST BE PROVIDED TO PROTECT EACH SLEEPING AREA IN
ADDITION TO SMOKE ALARMS REQUIRED IN BEDROOMS.
In addition to smoke alarms outside of the sleeping areas and in each bedroom,
NFPA 72 requires the installation of a smoke alarm on each additional level of the
dwelling unit, including the basement. These installations are shown in FIGURE 5.
The living area smoke alarm should be installed in the living room or near the
stairway to the upper level, or in both locations. The basement smoke alarm should
be installed in close proximity to the stairway leading to the floor above. Where
installed on an open-joisted ceiling, the smoke alarm should be placed on the bottom
of the joists. The smoke alarm should be positioned relative to the stairway so as to
intercept smoke coming from a fire in the basement before the smoke enters the
stairway.
FIGURE 2: A SMOKE ALARM MUST BE LOCATED ON EVERY LEVEL OF
DWELLING UNIT, INCLUDING BASEMENT, WITHIN EACH SLEEPING ROOM AND
OUTSIDE SLEEPING AREAS.
Where to Locate the Required Smoke Alarms. The major threat from fire in a
dwelling unit occurs at night when everyone is asleep. Persons in sleeping areas can
be threatened by fires in the remainder of the unit; therefore, smoke alarms are best
located in each bedroom and between the bedroom areas and the rest of the unit as
shown in FIGURE 3.
FIGURE 2
FIGURE 3
FIGURE 4
FIGURE 5: A SMOKE ALARM MUST BE LOCATED ON EACH LEVEL IN ADDITION
TO EACH BEDROOM.
FIGURE 3: A SMOKE ALARM MUST BE LOCATED BETWEEN THE SLEEPING
AREA AND THE REST OF THE DWELLING UNIT AS WELL AS IN EACH
BEDROOM.
In dwelling units with more than one bedroom area or with bedrooms on more than
one floor, more than one smoke alarm is required, as shown in FIGURE 4.
550-0563
Pg. 5-5
IMPORTANT CONSIDERATION
NFPA states the following for replacement of smoke/CO alarms: NFPA 720,
2012 Edition, Chapter 8, Section 8.8.1.3 states: Smoke/CO alarms shall be replaced
when either the end-of-life signal is activated or the manufacturer’s replacement
date is reached. Alarms shall also be replaced when they fail to respond to
operability tests.
Smoke/CO alarms must be replaced when end of life signal sounds, why:
Dust, dirt, and other environmental contaminants can affect your smoke/CO
alarm over a prolonged period.
Fast changing industry consensus standards and codes on all smoke/CO alarms
make it advisable to periodically upgrade your smoke/CO alarm to maximize life
safety.
Assurance that your smoke/CO alarm needs are kept abreast with the constantly
improving electronic technology.
Smoke/CO alarms are recognized as one of the lowest cost ways to protect
dwelling inhabitants against the danger of fire and CO. It makes good common
sense to periodically replace and update your smoke/CO alarm that contributes
so much to life safety.
MOUNTING LOCATION
This smoke/CO alarm can be mounted on a ceiling or wall with equal efficiency in
either location.
Ceiling location -smoke/CO alarm should be mounted as close as possible to
the center of a hallway or room.
Wall location -locate the top of the smoke/CO alarm not more than 12 inches
from the ceiling.
FIGURE 6: RECOMMENDED SMOKE/CO ALARM MOUNTING LOCATIONS
Figures 2, 3, 4 & 5 are reprinted with permission from NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm Code®,
Copyright ©2010, National Fire Protection Association, Quincy, MA 02169. This reprinted
material is not the complete and official position of the National Fire Protection Association
on the referenced subject which is represented only by the standard in its entirety. National
Fire Alarm Code® and NFPA 72® are registered trademarks of the National Fire Protection
Association, Inc., Quincy, MA 02169.
FIGURE 6
FIGURE 7: RECOMMENDED SMOKE/CO ALARM LOCATION IN ROOMS WITH
SLOPED, GABLED, OR PEAKED CEILINGS.
The placement of the smoke/CO alarm is critical if maximum speed of fire detection
is desired. Thus, a logical location for a smoke alarm is the center of the ceiling.
At this location, the device is closest to all areas of the room.
WHERE ALARMS SHOULD BE INSTALLED IN MOBILE HOMES
In mobile homes built after about 1978 that were designed and insulated to be
energy-efficient, smoke/CO alarms should be installed as described in the section
above.
In older mobile homes that have little or no insulation compared to today's stan-
dards, uninsulated metal outside walls and roofs can transfer heat and cold from
outdoors, making the air right next to them hotter or colder than the rest of the
inside air. These layers of hotter or colder air can prevent smoke from reaching a
smoke/CO alarm. Therefore, install devices in such units only on inside walls, not
more than 12 inches (30 cm) from the ceiling. If you are not sure about the
insulation level in your mobile home, or if you notice that the walls or ceiling are
unusually hot or cold, install the device on an inside wall.
Minimum protection requires one smoke/CO alarm as close to the sleeping area
as possible. For better protection, install one device in each room, but first read the
"Locations to Avoid."
FIGURE 7
FIGURE 8
LOCATIONS TO AVOID
Nuisance alarms are caused by placing smoke/CO alarms where they will not
operate properly. To avoid nuisance alarms, do not place smoke/CO alarms:
In or near areas where combustion particles are normally present such as
kitchens; in garages where there are particles of combustion in vehicle
exhausts; near furnaces, hot water heaters, or gas space heaters. Install
smoke/CO alarms at least 20 feet (6 meters) away from kitchens and other
areas where combustion particles are normally present.
In air streams passing by kitchens. Figure 8 shows how a smoke/CO alarm
can be exposed to combustion particles in normal air movement paths, and how
to correct this situation.
In damp or very humid areas, or next to bathrooms with showers. The
moisture in humid air can enter the sensing chamber as water vapor, then cool
and condense into droplets that cause a nuisance alarm. Install smoke/CO
alarms at least 10 feet (3 meters) away from bathrooms.
In very cold or very hot environments, or in unheated buildings or outdoor
rooms, where the temperature can go below or above the operating range of the
smoke alarm. Temperature limits for proper operation are 40° to 100°F (4.4° to
37.8°C).
In very dusty or dirty areas. Dust and dirt can build up on the smoke alarm's
sensing chamber and can make it overly sensitive, or block openings to the
sensing chamber and keep the smoke alarm from sensing smoke.
Near fresh air inlets, returns or excessively drafty areas. Air conditioners,
heaters, fans, fresh air intakes and returns can drive smoke away from
smoke/CO alarms, making the devices less effective.
In dead air spaces at the top of a peaked roof or in the corners between
ceilings and walls. Dead air may prevent smoke from reaching a smoke
alarm. See Figures 6 and 7 for recommended mounting locations.
In insect-infested areas. If insects enter a smoke/CO alarm's sensing
chamber, they may cause a nuisance alarm. Get rid of the bugs before
installing smoke/CO alarms where bugs are a problem.
Near fluorescent light fixtures. Electrical "noise" from nearby fluorescent light
fixtures may cause a nuisance alarm. Install smoke/CO alarms and
fluorescent lights on separate electrical circuits.
Never disconnect an AC smoke/CO alarm to silence a nuisance
alarm. Open a window or fan the air around the device to remove the smoke. The
alarm will automatically turn off when the smoke in the air is completely gone. Do
not stand close to the device. The sound produced by the smoke alarm is loud
because it is designed to awaken you in an emergency. Prolonged exposure to the
horn at a close distance may be harmful to your hearing.
WHERE SMOKE/CO ALARMS SHOULD NOT BE INSTALLED
DO NOT INSTALL THIS CO ALARM:
In garages, kitchens, furnace rooms, or in any extremely dusty, dirty or greasy
areas.
Closer than 15 feet (4.6 meters) from a furnace or other fuel burning heat source
or fuel burning appliance like a water heater.
Within 5 feet (1.5 meters) of any cooking appliance
Near any type of diaper pails or receptacle.
Near animal litter boxes, cages or kennels.
In extremely humid areas. This alarm should be at least 10 feet (3 meters) from
a bath or shower, sauna, humidifier, vaporizer, dishwasher, laundry room, utility
room or other source of high humidity.
In areas where temperature is colder than 40°F (4°C) or hotter than 100°F
(38°C). These areas include non-air conditioned crawl spaces, unfinished attics,
uninsulated or poorly insulated ceilings, porches and garages.
In turbulent air, like near ceiling fans, heat vents, air conditioners, fresh air
returns, or open windows. Blowing air may prevent CO from reaching the
sensors.
In direct sunlight
550-0563
Pg. 5-6
IMPORTANT SAFETY MESSAGES
This smoke/CO alarm is designed for use inside a single or multi-family
dwelling. It is not meant to be used in common lobbies, hallways, or
basements of multi-family buildings unless working alarms are also
installed in each family living unit. Smoke/CO alarms in common areas
may not be heard from inside individual family living units.
This smoke/CO alarm is not a suitable substitute for complete detection
systems in places which house many people like hotels or dormitories,
unless a smoke/CO alarm is also placed in each unit.
DO NOT use this smoke/CO alarm in warehouses, industrial or commercial
buildings, special-purpose non-residential buildings or airplanes. This
smoke/CO alarm is specifically designed for residential use and may not
provide adequate protection in non-residential applications.
Never disconnect an AC CO alarm to silence a
nuisance alarm. Open a window or fan the air around the CO alarm. The
alarm will automatically turn off when the CO in the air is completely gone.
Do not stand close to the CO alarm. The sound produced by the CO alarm is
loud because it is designed to awaken you in an emergency. Prolonged
exposure to the horn at a close distance may be harmful to your hearing.
550-0563
Pg. 5-7
BATTERY INSTALLATION
1. Locate side mounted battery drawer.
2. Open battery drawer by firmly pulling on side lip, then sliding battery drawer
open.
3. Insert battery into drawer, terminal end first. Take care to make sure the
proper polarity is being observed, (+) terminal on battery to (+) terminal on
alarm metal contact and (-) terminal on battery to (-) terminal on the alarm metal
contact. See FIGURE 9.
4. Insert battery into drawer and close drawer. Note: the battery drawer will not
close if the battery is installed incorrectly.
5. Slide battery drawer shut until it is snapped into place.
6. Use only Duracell®MN 1604 battery with the GN-503 Series smoke/CO alarm.
Available at many retail stores.
7. Push test button to verify battery operation.
NOTICE: UNITS WITH BATTERY BACK-UP WILL NOT PROVIDE POWER OR
TRANSMIT AN ALARM TO OTHER AC ONLY UNITS IN THE EVENT OF AN AC
POWER FAILURE. ALL BATTERY BACK-UP UNITS IN TANDEM WITH GOOD
BATTERIES WILL OPERATE NORMALLY DURING AN AC POWER FAILURE A
MINIMUM OF 24 HOURS.
FIGURE 9
MOUNTING: PLATE & SMOKE/CO ALARM
1. Lace the connector through the provided mounting plate and secure the plate to
the junction box.
2. Plug the wire connector into the smoke/CO alarm base.
FIGURE 10
3. Immediately move to fresh air - outdoors or by an open door or window. Meet at
prearranged meeting place after leaving the house. Verify all persons are
accounted for. Do not re-enter premises or move away from the fresh air until
the emergency responder has arrived, the premises has been aired out and the
smoke/CO alarm remains in normal condition.
4. After following steps 1-3, if the smoke/CO alarm reactivates within a 24-hour
period, repeat steps 1-3 and call a qualified appliance technician to investigate
for sources of CO from fuel-burning equipment and appliances as well as inspect
for proper operation of this equipment. If problems are identified during this
inspection, have the equipment serviced immediately. Note any combustion
POWER ON
INDICATOR/SMOKE
INDICATOR
FIGURE 11
CO INDICATOR
PRESS AND RELEASE
BUTTON FOR SELF
TEST. PUSH BUTTON
AND HOLD UNTIL
DEVICE ALARMS
FOR FUNCTIONAL
TEST
NOTICE: REMOVE DUST-COVER BEFORE OPERATING SMOKE/CO ALARM
CHECKOUT & TROUBLESHOOTING
For self test feature, press and release button. Results of test:
Alarm is silent - Smoke/CO Alarm is in good working condition
1 Chirp with red LED flash - Low battery. Replace battery following
instructions in BATTERY INSTALLATION Section
2 Chirps with red LED flash - Smoke/CO Alarm has become dirty or defective
or there is a large influx of CO. Clean (refer to MAINTENANCE Section) or
warranty return.
3 Chirps with red LED flash - Smoke/CO Alarm is at end of life and must be
replaced.
To find device with low battery (1 chirp) or device that has become dirty or
defective (2 chirps) perform the self test and the faulty alarm will continue to
chirp as long as fault is present.
Press and hold button until all alarms annunciate for functional test
Supply house power to the smoke/CO alarm, green indicator will be on. The red
indicator light should flash approximately every 15-30 seconds, showing that unit
is operating properly.
If red light is not flashing or the green LED is not on:
a. Check that AC power is working.
b. Check that the battery is installed.
c. Push test button. Alarm will go into self test mode.
d. Check the connector plug and wire connections.
NOTICE: BE SURE YOU TURN OFF POWER BEFORE CHECKING WIRE
CONNECTIONS.
e. If the power supply and wiring check out, but the red light does not flash or
the green LED is still off, return the unit to the manufacturer. See TO
RETURN AN ALARM.
When powering up devices in a tandem installation inspect all devices for a solid
green LED and all devices sound when each device is tested. If problem exists
verify wiring of devices. If wiring is correct and problem remains, the device(s)
with flashing red LED is the trouble device(s) and should be replaced.
If smoke/CO alarm becomes contaminated, such as excessive dust, and can not
be cleaned, avoid nuisance alarms by replacing device.
IF YOUR SMOKE/CO ALARM SOUNDS
Actuation of the smoke/CO alarm, sounding for CO, (temporal 4 tone)
indicates the presence of carbon monoxide (CO) which can kill you. IF THE
DEVICE ALARM SOUNDS, DO NOT IGNORE THE UNIT!
IF THE ALARM SIGNAL SOUNDS:
1. Operate the Test/Reset button (when the alarm has been reset, the device will
continue to monitor the air for the presence of CO. If the alarm sounds again,
there are CO levels that are potentially dangerous).
2. Call emergency services, fire department or 911. Write the number of your local
emergency service here:
3. Place device up to mounting plate, rotating it clockwise until device firmly snap
locks into place. Keep smoke alarm parallel to the mounting plate so tabs on
plate seat correctly into device.
4. Remove dust-cover after all construction is complete. Dust-cover must be
removed prior to power being supplied to the smoke/CO alarm. If the dust-cover
is not removed, operation of smoke/CO alarm will be inhibited.
“ALARM - MOVE TO FRESH AIR”
If you hear the smoke/CO alarm horn and the red light is flashing,
move everyone to a source of fresh air. DO NOT unplug the alarm!
550-0563
Pg. 5-8
NOTICE: ALARMS HAVE VARIOUS LIMITATIONS. SEE “GENERAL LIMITATIONS
OF SMOKE/CO ALARMS” FOR DETAILS.
While the alarm is silenced:
If the smoke/CO alarm: This means:
Is silent for only 5 minutes,
then the alarm sounds again
CO levels are still
potentially dangerous
If the smoke/CO alarm: This means:
Remains silent after the reset
button has been pressed CO levels are dropping
USING THE RESET FEATURE
The reset feature is for your convenience only and will not correct a CO
problem. ALWAYS check your home for a potential problem after any
alarm. Failure to do so can result in injury or death.
NEVER remove the battery from your alarm to silence the horn; use the
reset feature. Removing the battery, removes your protection! See “IF
YOUR SMOKE/CO ALARM SOUNDS” for details on responding to an alarm.
The reset feature is intended to reset the CO alarm while the problem is
corrected - IT WILL NOT CORRECT A CO PROBLEM.
While the alarm has been reset, the device will continue to monitor the air for the
presence of CO.
When CO reaches alarm levels, the alarm will sound a temporal 4 horn pattern -
4 beeps, a pause, 4 beeps, a pause, etc. Press the reset button until the horn
becomes silent. The initial reset cycle will last approximately 5 minutes.
NOTICE: AFTER INITIAL 5 MINUTE RESET CYCLE, THE ALARM WILL
RE-EVALUATE PRESENT CO LEVELS AND RESPOND ACCORDINGLY. IF CO
LEVELS REMAIN POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS, OR INCREASE TO HIGHER
LEVELS, THE ALARM WILL SOUND AGAIN.
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
PROBLEM: THIS MEANS: ACTION TAKEN:
Smoke/CO alarm goes
back into alarm 5
minutes after the reset
button was pressed.
CO levels indicate
a potentially
dangerous situation.
IF YOU ARE FEELING
SYMPTOMS OF CO
POISONING, EVACUATE
your home and call 911 or
the Fire Department. If not,
press the reset button
again and keep
ventilating your home.
Green light is OFF.
Red light is not flashing.
Unit will not go into test
mode when reset
button is pressed.
Device may not be
receiving power.
NO AC and no
battery in device
Contact licensed electrical
technician for equipment
inspection service,
immediately.
Alarm sounds 2 quick
chirps every 30
seconds.
Device has become
dirty or defective.
Clean (refer to
MAINTENANCE Section)
or TO RETURN AN
ALARM Section
Alarm sounds 3 quick
chirps every 30
seconds.
END OF LIFE
SIGNAL.
Replace device.
Contact Gentex Corporation
for replacement information
or see TO RETURN AN
ALARM Section.
Green light is ON and
red light is not flashing
and alarm chirps once
every 30 seconds
Low or no battery
in device. AC is
powering device
Replace battery (refer to
Battery Installation
Section) or return to
manufacturer
Reset button is pressed.
LED’s do not flash and
device does not go into
test mode.
Device is not
operating properly.
Contact Gentex Corporation
for replacement information
or see TO RETURN AN
ALARM Section.
Only CO portion of
device is operating.
Smoke portion of
device is not
operating properly.
Contact Gentex Corporation
for replacement information
or see TO RETURN AN
ALARM Section.
Any questions that are not answered within this manual, call Gentex Corporation at
1-800-436-8391.
MAINTENANCE
NOTICES:
DO NOT OPEN SMOKE/CO ALARM FOR CLEANING. IF SMOKE/CO ALARM
IS OPENED, PRODUCT WARRANTY BECOMES VOID.
IF THE DEVICE DOES NOT WORK PROPERLY, DO NOT TRY AND FIX IT
YOURSELF. THIS WILL VOID YOUR WARRANTY. SEE TO RETURN AN
ALARM SECTION FOR INSTRUCTIONS TO RETURN SMOKE ALARMS THAT
DO NOT OPERATE PROPERLY. DO NOT TRY TO FIX IT YOURSELF.
Gentex recommends CO alarms be tested a minimum of once a week. The test
feature of your CO alarm accurately simulates CO conditions and tests the CO
alarm's functions as required by ANSI/UL 217 and ANSI/UL 2034.
NOTICES:
NEVER USE AN OPEN FLAME OF ANY KIND TO TEST YOUR DEVICE. YOU
MAY IGNITE AND DAMAGE THE SMOKE/CO ALARM AS WELL AS YOUR
HOME. THE TEST FEATURE OF YOUR SMOKE/CO ALARM ACCURATELY
SIMULATES SMOKE CONDITIONS AND TESTS THE DEVICE'S FUNCTIONS
AS REQUIRED BY UNDERWRITERS LABORATORIES.
DO NOT COVER, TAPE, OR OTHERWISE BLOCK THE OPENINGS OF YOUR
SMOKE/CO ALARM. THESE OPENINGS ARE DESIGNED TO ALLOW AIR TO
PASS THROUGH YOUR SMOKE/CO ALARM, THUS SAMPLING THE AIR
AROUND THE SMOKE/CO ALARM.
SMOKE/CO ALARMS ARE NOT TO BE USED WITH DETECTOR GUARDS
UNLESS THE COMBINATION HAS BEEN EVALUATED BY A NATIONALLY
RECOGNIZED TESTING LABORATORY AND FOUND SUITABLE FOR THAT
PURPOSE.
FAILURE TO REGULARLY CLEAN THIS SMOKE/CO ALARM WILL RESULT IN
FALSE ALARMS. A BUILD UP OF DUST CREATES AN OBSCURATION THAT
SIMULATES SMOKE. THIS MEANS THE UNIT WILL GO INTO ALARM WITH
OUT A FIRE CONDITION.
WEEKLY TESTING
Press the test/reset button on the alarm until the alarm sounds. During testing
the device will simulate a smoke condition in the alarm followed by an electrical test
of the CO sensor. LED’s will flash to indicate testing. The alarm sequence should
last 10-20 seconds.
If the alarm ever fails to test properly, replace it immediately. Products
under warranty may be returned to the manufacturer for replacement, see
LIMITED WARRANTY.
DO NOT stand close to the device when the alarm is sounding. Exposure
at close range could result in hearing damage.
Never use exhaust from vehicle to test CO portion of alarm. Exhaust may
cause permanent damage to alarm and voids the warranty.
TO KEEP THE ALARM WORKING PROPERLY:
Test weekly as described in WEEKLY TESTING.
Keep alarm cover clean using soft cloth. DO NOT vacuum or use compressed
air, water, cleaners or solvents to clean alarm.
Replace battery immediately if low battery warning is heard. See BATTERY
INSTALLATION section.
NOTICE: DO NOT SPRAY CLEANING CHEMICALS OR INSECT SPRAYS
DIRECTLY ON OR NEAR THE ALARM. DO NOT PAINT OVER THE ALARM.
DOING SO MAY CAUSE PERMANENT DAMAGE.
Household cleaners, aerosol chemicals and other contaminants can affect the
sensor. When using any of these materials near the alarm, make sure the room
is well ventilated.
NOTICE: THE CO ALARM IS NOT WASHABLE. DO NOT SUBMERGE THE
ALARM IN WATER. WATER CAN AFFECT THE SENSOR, CAUSING
PERMANENT DAMAGE.
If your home is being fumigated, disconnect unit temporarily from wire
harness and store where it will not be exposed to chemicals or fumes.
When fumigation is complete and all traces of fumes clear, re-connect unit
back to wire harness and push the reset button.
UNDERWRITERS LABORATORIES, INC. ANSI/UL 2034
WHAT LEVELS OF CO CAUSE AN ALARM
UL Standard ANSI/UL 2034 requires residential smoke/CO alarms to sound
when exposed to levels of CO and exposure times as described below. CO levels
are measured in part per million (ppm) of CO over time (in minutes).
ANSI/UL 2034 Required Alarm Points1:
If the smoke/CO alarm is exposed to 400 ppm of CO, THE DEVICE MUST
ALARM BETWEEN 4 - 15 MINUTES.
If the smoke/CO alarm is exposed to 150 ppm of CO, THE DEVICE MUST
ALARM BETWEEN 10 - 50 MINUTES.
If the smoke/CO alarm is exposed to 70 ppm of CO, THE DEVICE MUST ALARM
BETWEEN 60 - 240 MINUTES.
The device is designed not to alarm when exposed to a constant level of 30 ppm for
30 days.
1 Approximately 10% COHb exposure at levels of 10% to 95% Relative Humidity (RH).
equipment not inspected by the technician and consult the manufacturers’
instructions, or contact the manufacturers directly for more information about CO
safety and this equipment. Make sure that motor vehicles are not and have not
been operating in an attached garage or adjacent to the residence. Write down
the number of a qualified appliance technician here:
Smoke/CO alarms are designed to alarm before there is an
immediate life threat. Since CO gas cannot be seen or smelled, never assume
it is not present.
An exposure to 100 ppm of CO for 20 minutes may not affect a healthy adult,
after 4 hours of exposure at the same level may cause headache.
An exposure to 400 ppm of CO may cause headaches in a healthy adult after 35
minutes and could cause death after 2 hours.
NOTICE: THIS DEVICE MEASURES EXPOSURE TO CO OVER TIME. THIS
DEVICE ALARMS IF CO LEVELS REACH A CERTAIN MINIMUM OVER AN
EXTENDED AMOUNT OF TIME.
The device will go into alarm before the onset of symptoms in healthy adults. It
is important to have early notification of a potential hazard, while still having the
ability to react in time. In many reported cases of CO exposure, victims may be
aware that they were not feeling well, but became disoriented and could no longer
react well enough to exit the building or get help.
NOTICE: HEALTHY ADULTS MAY NOT EXPERIENCE ANY SYMPTOMS OF CO
EXPOSURE WHEN THE DEVICE ALARMS, HOWEVER INFANTS, YOUNG
CHILDREN, PREGNANT WOMEN, ELDERLY PEOPLE, PEOPLE WITH CARDIAC,
RESPIRATORY OR OTHER HEALTH RELATED ISSUES MAY BE MORE
QUICKLY AND SEVERELY AFFECTED BY CO EXPOSURE. IF EVEN THERE
ARE MILD SYMPTOMS OF EXPOSURE TO CO POISONING, CONSULT A
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL IMMEDIATELY.
Standards: Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. Single and Multiple Station carbon
monoxide alarms ANSI/UL 2034. For your information, the ANSI/UL 2034 Standard,
reads as follows:
Underwriters Laboratories, Inc ANSI/UL 2034, Section 1-1.2 Carbon monoxide
alarms covered by these requirements are intended to respond to the presence of
carbon monoxide from sources such as, but not limited to, exhaust from internal-
combustion engines, abnormal operation from fuel-fired appliances and fireplaces.
CO alarms are intended to alarm at carbon monoxide levels below those that could
cause a loss of ability to react to the dangers of carbon monoxide exposure.
This alarm monitors the air at the device and is designed to alarm before CO
levels become life threatening. This allows precious time to leave the house and
correct the problem. This is only possible if the devices are properly located,
installed and maintained as described in this manual.
Gas Detection at Typical Temperature and Humidity Ranges: This device is
not formulated to detect CO levels below 30 ppm typically. ANSI/UL tested for false
alarm resistance to Methane (500 ppm), Butane (300 ppm), Heptane (500 ppm),
Ethyl Acetate (200 ppm), Isopropyl Alcohol (200 ppm) and Carbon Dioxide (5000
ppm). Values measure gas and vapor concentrations in parts per million.
Audible Alarm: 85dBA minimum at 10 feet (3 meters).
TO RETURN AN ALARM
Should you experience problems with your smoke/CO alarm,
proceed as follows:
1. Turn off electrical power to the smoke/CO alarm.
2. Twist the smoke/CO alarm counter-clockwise to remove it from its mounting
plate.
3. Unplug the connector from the back of the smoke/CO alarm. Do not remove the
wire connection; leave the connector for your replacement smoke/CO alarm.
4. Remove battery from smoke/CO alarm. Do not ship smoke/CO alarm with
battery still in battery drawer.
5. Carefully pack (the manufacturer cannot be responsible for consequential
damage) and return to the manufacturer. Include complete details as to exact
nature of difficulties being experienced and date of installation.
6. Return to: Gentex Corporation, 10985 Chicago Drive, Zeeland, Michigan 49464.
Prior to returning, call Gentex at 800-436-839 or e-mail FP_RMA@gentex.com to
obtain a RMA Number from our return department.
550-0563
Pg. 5-9
NOTE: GENTEX LEGACY PRODUCTS INCLUDE 9120, 9123, 7100, 7103, 710CS,
713CS, 7109CS, 7139CS, GN-200, GN-203, GN-300 AND GN-303 SERIES.
THESE PRODUCTS WILL NOT ACTIVATE FOR A CO EVENT WHEN TANDEM
INTERCONNECTED TO A GENTEX CO OR SMOKE/CO ALARM.
NOTICE: NEW CONSTRUCTION: DO NOT ATTACH SMOKE/CO ALARM HEAD
UNTIL AFTER SANDING, PAINTING, AND OTHER DUST CREATING
SITUATIONS ARE FINISHED AND CLEANED UP.
WIRING/GENERAL
1. Use ANSI/UL Listed wire for Class 1 requirements.
2. Observe local code requirements. Use box connector to anchor cable to outlet
box.
3. Metal outlet boxes must be grounded to earth ground.
CAUTION: Turn off electricity to prevent SHOCK and damage to smoke/CO
alarm. Be sure the AC power to the smoke/CO alarm is not controlled by any on/off
switch, or other type of switch, other than a fuse or circuit breaker.
IMPORTANT: Ensure that all fluorescent lighting fixtures are properly grounded.
NOTICE:THE WIRING TO BE USED SHALL BE IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE
PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 210 OF THE NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE, NFPA
70. WIRE INSTALLATION SHOULD BE PERFORMED ONLY BY A LICENSED
ELECTRICIAN.
MOUNTING OUTLET BOX
Use a 2" x 3" switch box or a 4" square or octagon junction box. Mount a box for
each smoke/CO alarm. If wall mounting is desired, be sure the box screws are
oriented to upper right and lower left corners. Be sure to use supplied Mounting
Plate.
WIRING ONE ALARM
1. Run a minimum of 16 gauge, 2-conductor cable, plus ground (3 wires) to the
junction box from a branch circuit. Smoke/CO alarms shall be connected to their
own dedicated circuit. Use ANSI/UL Listed wire for Class 1 requirements.
NOTICE: THE WIRING TO BE USED SHALL BE IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE
PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 300.3(B) 210 OF THE NATIONAL ELECTRICAL
CODE, NFPA 70.
2. Make wire connections to the supplied harness as follows: black to black, white
to white, and connect the ground wire to the metal outlet box.
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS FOR GN-503FF
PLUG SMOKE/CO
ALARM
BLK
WHT
VIO
VIO
ORN
YEL
HOT
NEUT POWER
SMOKE ALARM
CONTACTS (FORM A CONTACT)
BRN / YEL TANDEM
SMOKE FORM C COMMON
SMOKE NORMALLY CLOSED
CO ALARM
CONTACTS (FORM A CONTACT)
PINK
PINK
BLU
GRAY
VIO / YEL
FORM C
ALARM
CONTACTS
SMOKE & CO NORMALLY OPEN
CO FORM C COMMON
CO NORMALLY CLOSED
2
RELAY CONTACTS
RATED LOAD RESISTIVE
1.0 AMP @ 30VDC MAX
0.3 AMP @ 125VAC MAX
ELECTRICAL
BOX
SMOKE/CO
ALARM
QUICK DISCONNECT
TYPE PLUG
HOT / BLACK
NEUTRAL / WHITE
TANDEM WIRE
BRN / YEL
SMOKE/CO
ALARM
ELECTRICAL
BOX
ELECTRICAL
BOX
SMOKE/CO
ALARM
NOTICE: A MAXIMUM OF 12 SMOKE/CO ALARMS OF MODEL GN-503FF MAY
BE TANDEM INTERCONNECTED.
CAUTION: BROWN/YELLOW wire to be capped when not in use. This wire is for
tandem interconnection only. DO NOT connect to any other circuit.
WIRING TWO OR MORE ALARMS
Tandem Interconnect Installation
NOTICE:ALL SMOKE/CO ALARMS TANDEM INTERCONNECTED MUST BE
CONTROLLED BY THE SAME FUSE OR CIRCUIT BREAKER. OTHERWISE
TANDEM FEATURE WILL NOT OPERATE. TANDEM INTERCONNECTION WILL
OPERATE IN THE EVENT OF AC POWER FAILURE IF BATTERY IS
CONNECTED TO THE SMOKE ALARM.
LIMITATIONS: A maximum of 12 GN-503FF alarms may be tandem
interconnected together. Do not exceed 125 feet between each device. Do not
exceed 1125 feet between first and last smoke/CO alarm.
Wire used for tandem interconnection shall be in accordance with article 760 of
the latest edition of National Electrical Code (NFPA 70) and must not exceed a
resistance of 10 ohms.
1. Run a minimum of 16 gauge, 3-conductor cable, plus ground (4 wires) to the first
junction box from a dedicated branch circuit and between all smoke/CO alarms
that are to be connected together. Use ANSI/UL Listed wire for Class 1
requirements. Power limited cable for multiple tandem connections are available
at many commercial electrical retail stores.
2. Make wire connections to the supplied wire harness as follows: black to black,
white to white, 3rd conductor to the brown/yellow wire. The brown/yellow wire
should be stripped to make the connection. Connect ground wire between
metal outlet boxes.
NOTES ON TANDEM INTERCONNECTING MODELS
DO NOT connect Gentex alarms to other manufacturers' alarms.
A maximum of 18 compatible smoke, heat, CO and/or combination smoke/CO
alarms may be interconnected. No more than 12 of the 18 can be smoke alarms
per NFPA 72.
No more than 12 Gentex model GN-503FF alarms may be connected in tandem.
All alarms tandem interconnected MUST get their power from the same
dedicated branch circuit, all smoke alarms in tandem must be controlled by the
same fuse or circuit breaker.
After installation, to verify proper working conditions, all alarms must sound in
this system. Test using the functional test button feature.
Use brown/yellow wire to tandem interconnect GN-503FF alarms to additional
GN-503 Series, S1209 Series and CO1209 Series.
NOTICE: IF A GN-503 SERIES OR CO1209 SERIES UNIT IS ANNUNCIATING
FOR A CO EVENT, LEGACY PRODUCTS WILL NOT ACTIVATE AND WILL
REMAIN SILENT.
CAUTION: Failure to observe any of the conditions set forth may cause system
malfunction and damage to the device.
550-0563
Pg. 5-10
IMPORTANT GN-503FF PRODUCT INSTALLATION INFORMATION
NOTICE: USE ONLY DURACELL®MN 1604 BATTERY WITH THE GN-503
SERIES SMOKE/CO ALARMS. AVAILABLE AT MANY RETAIL STORES.
Use brown/yellow wire to tandem interconnect GN-503 Series alarms to
additional GN-503 Series, S1209 Series and CO1209 Series.
NOTICE: THE GN-503FF IS ONLY CAPABLE OF TANDEM INTERCONNECT
WITH GN-503 SERIES, CO1209 SERIES AND S1209 SERIES. IT IS NOT
POSSIBLE TO TANDEM INTERCONNECT ANY OTHER GENTEX PRODUCT
SERIES THAN WHAT IS LISTED ABOVE
THE GN-503FF AND GN-503F PRODUCT WIRING HARNESS IS NOT
INTERCHANGEABLE. THE GN-503FF AND GN-503F MUST USE PROPER
WIRING HARNESS. PRODUCT WILL NOT FUNCTION IF INCORRECT
HARNESS IS USED.
GN-503FF WIRING DIAGRAM
GN-503FF TANDEM INTERCONNECT WIRING DIAGRAM
2The GN-503FF is only compatible of tandem interconnection with GN-503 Series,
CO1209 Series and S1209 Series.
Use brown/yellow wire to tandem
interconnect GN-503 Series alarms
to additional GN-503 Series,
S1209 Series and CO1209 Series.
NOTICE: THE GN-503FF IS ONLY
CAPABLE OF TANDEM
INTERCONNECT WITH GN-503
SERIES, CO1209 SERIES AND
S1209 SERIES. IT IS NOT
POSSIBLE TO TANDEM
INTERCONNECT ANY OTHER
GENTEX PRODUCT SERIES
OTHER THAN WHAT IS LISTED
ABOVE
NOTICE: THE GN-503FF AND
GN-503F PRODUCT WIRING
HARNESS IS NOT
INTERCHANGEABLE. THE
GN-503FF AND GN-503F MUST
USE PROPER WIRING
HARNESS. PRODUCT WILL
NOT FUNCTION IF INCORRECT
HARNESS IS USED.
WIRING TWO OR MORE ALARMS
Tandem Interconnect Installation
NOTICE:ALL SMOKE/CO ALARMS TANDEM INTERCONNECTED MUST BE
CONTROLLED BY THE SAME FUSE OR CIRCUIT BREAKER. OTHERWISE
TANDEM FEATURE WILL NOT OPERATE. TANDEM INTERCONNECTION WILL
OPERATE IN THE EVENT OF AC POWER FAILURE IF BATTERY IS
CONNECTED TO THE SMOKE ALARM.
LIMITATIONS: A maximum of 12 smoke/CO alarms (GN-503) may be
connected together. Do not exceed 125 feet between each device. Do not exceed
1125 feet between first and last smoke/CO alarm.
NOTICE: A MAXIMUM OF 12 SMOKE/CO ALARMS OF GN-503 WITH THE RELAY
OPTION (F) MAY BE TANDEM INTERCONNECTED.
Wire used for interconnection shall be in accordance with article 760 of the latest
edition of National Electrical Code (NFPA 70) and must not exceed a resistance of
10 ohms.
PLUG SMOKE/CO
ALARM
BLK
WHT
RED / YEL
VIO
VIO / BLK
BLU
ORN
YEL
GRAY
GRAY
HOT
NEUT POWER
TANDEM - LEGACY
ALARM
CONTACTS
ACCESSORY
ALARM
CONTACTS
INTERNAL
JUMPER
BRN / YEL TANDEM
2
NOTICE: RED-YELLOW WIRE AND BROWN-YELLOW WIRE: THE RED-YELLOW
WIRE AND BROWN-YELLOW WIRE FROM THE SMOKE/CO ALARM IS FOR
TANDEM CONNECTION ONLY. DO NOT USE, AND DO NOT REMOVE
INSULATION CAP UNLESS CONNECTING ANOTHER CO ALARM, SMOKE/CO
ALARM OR SMOKE ALARM.
FIGURE 12
RED-YELLOW OR
BROWN-YELLOW WIRE
UNINSULATED WIRE
EARTH GROUND -
FOR METAL BOXES
ONLY
3-WIRE CABLE
AND GROUND
120VAC
BLACK
WHITE
GN-503 / GN-503F WIRING DIAGRAM
RELAY CONTACTS
RATED LOAD RESISTIVE
2.0 AMP @ 30VDC MAX
0.5 AMP @ 125VAC MAX
CAUTION: RED/YELLOW and BROWN/YELLOW wire to be capped when not in
use. This wire is for tandem connection only. DO NOT connect to any other circuit.
NOTICE: NEW CONSTRUCTION: DO NOT ATTACH SMOKE/CO ALARM HEAD
UNTIL AFTER SANDING, PAINTING, AND OTHER DUST CREATING
SITUATIONS ARE FINISHED AND CLEANED UP.
WIRING/GENERAL
1. Use ANSI/UL Listed wire for Class 1 requirements.
2. Observe local code requirements. Use box connector to anchor cable to outlet
box.
3. Metal outlet boxes must be grounded to earth ground.
CAUTION: Turn off electricity to prevent SHOCK and damage to smoke/CO
alarm. Be sure the AC power to the smoke/CO alarm is not controlled by any on/off
switch, or other type of switch, other than a fuse or circuit breaker.
IMPORTANT: Ensure that all fluorescent lighting fixtures are properly grounded.
NOTICE:THE WIRING TO BE USED SHALL BE IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE
PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 210 OF THE NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE, NFPA
70. WIRE INSTALLATION SHOULD BE PERFORMED ONLY BY A LICENSED
ELECTRICIAN.
MOUNTING OUTLET BOX
Use a 2" x 3" switch box or a 4" square or octagon junction box. Mount a box for
each smoke/CO alarm. If wall mounting is desired, be sure the box screws are
oriented to upper right and lower left corners. Be sure to use supplied Mounting
Plate.
WIRING ONE ALARM
1. Run a minimum of 16 gauge, 2-conductor cable, plus ground (3 wires) to the
junction box from a branch circuit. Smoke/CO alarms shall be connected to their
own dedicated circuit. Use ANSI/UL Listed wire for Class 1 requirements.
NOTICE: THE WIRING TO BE USED SHALL BE IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE
PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 300.3(B) 210 OF THE NATIONAL ELECTRICAL
CODE, NFPA 70.
2. Make wire connections to the supplied wire harness as follows: black to black,
white to white, and connect the ground wire to the metal outlet box.
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS FOR GN-503 AND GN-503F ALARMS
ELECTRICAL
BOX
SMOKE/CO
ALARM
QUICK DISCONNECT
TYPE PLUG
HOT / BLACK
NEUTRAL / WHITE
TANDEM WIRE
BRN / YEL
SMOKE
ALARM
SMOKE/CO
ALARM
ELECTRICAL
BOX ELECTRICAL
BOX
TANDEM WIRE
RED / YEL
(LEGACY)
(LEGACY)
GN-503/GN-503F TANDEM INTERCONNECT WIRING DIAGRAM
IMPORTANT GN-503 AND GN-503F PRODUCT INSTALLATION
INFORMATION
NOTICE: USE ONLY DURACELL®MN 1604 BATTERY WITH THE GN-503
SERIES SMOKE/CO ALARMS. AVAILABLE AT MANY RETAIL STORES.
Use brown/yellow wire to tandem interconnect GN-503 Series alarms to
additional GN-503 Series, S1209 Series and CO1209 Series.
DO NOT USE RED/YELLOW TO INTERCONNECT GN-503 SERIES, S1209
SERIES AND CO1209 SERIES. If the red/yellow is used to interconnect the
GN-503 Series to additional GN-503 Series, S1209 Series and CO1209
Series, the units will not be tandem interconnected. The brown/yellow MUST
be used.
THE GN-503F AND GN-503FF PRODUCT WIRING HARNESS IS NOT
INTERCHANGEABLE. THE GN-503F AND GN-503FF MUST USE PROPER
WIRING HARNESS. PRODUCT WILL NOT FUNCTION IF INCORRECT
HARNESS IS USED.
Use brown/yellow wire to tandem
interconnect GN-503 Series alarms
to additional GN-503, S1209 and
CO1209 Series.
DO NOT USE RED/YELLOW TO
INTERCONNECT GN-503, S1209
AND CO1209 SERIES.
NOTE: GENTEX LEGACY
PRODUCTS INCLUDE 9120, 9123
7100, 7103, 710CS, 713CS,
7109CS, 7139CS, GN-200,
GN-203, GN-300 AND GN-303
SERIES. THESE PRODUCTS
WILL NOT ACTIVATE FOR A CO
EVENT WHEN TANDEM
INTERCONNECTED TO A
GENTEX CO OR SMOKE/CO
ALARM.
NOTICE: THE GN-503F AND
GN-503FF PRODUCT WIRING
HARNESS IS NOT
INTERCHANGEABLE. THE
GN-503F AND GN-503FF MUST
USE PROPER WIRING
HARNESS. PRODUCT WILL
NOT FUNCTION IF INCORRECT
HARNESS IS USED. 550-0563
Pg. 5-11
550-0563
Pg. 5-12
LIMITATIONS: Maximum of 12 smoke/CO alarms may be tandem
interconnected together. Do not exceed 125 feet between each smoke/CO alarm.
Do not exceed 1125 feet between the first and last smoke/CO alarm.
1. Run a minimum of 16 gauge, 3-conductor cable, plus ground (4 wires) to the first
junction box from a dedicate branch circuit and between all smoke/CO alarms
that are to be connected together. Use ANSI/UL Listed wire for Class 1
requirements. Power limited cable for multiple tandem connections are available
at many commercial electrical retail stores.
NOTICE: WHEN USING BOTH TANDEM CONNECTIONS, 4-CONDUCTOR
CABLE, PLUS GROUND (5 WIRES) MUST BE USED.
2. Make wire connections to the supplied wire harness as follows: black to black,
white to white, 3rd conductor is used for tandem interconnect. The red/yellow
wire or brown/yellow wire should be stripped to make the connection. Connect
ground wire between metal outlet boxes.
FIGURE 13
RED-YELLOW (LEGACY)
BROWN-YELLOW
4th UNINSULATED
WIRE EARTH
GROUND - FOR
METAL BOXES ONLY
4-WIRE CABLE
120VAC
BLACK
NOTES ON TANDEM INTERCONNECTING MODELS
DO NOT connect Gentex alarms to other manufacturers' alarms.
A maximum of 18 compatible smoke, heat, CO and/or combination smoke/CO
alarms may be interconnected. No more than 12 of the 18 can be smoke alarms
per NFPA72.
No more than 12 Gentex model GN-503 Series may be connected in tandem.
No more than 6 Gentex LEGACY products with Form A/Form C contacts may be
connected in tandem.
All units connected in tandem MUST get their power from the same dedicated
branch circuit, all smoke alarms in tandem must be controlled by the same fuse
or circuit breaker.
After installation, to verify proper working conditions, all alarms must sound in
this system. Test using the functional test button feature.
When tandem interconnecting GN-503 Series to additional GN-503 Series,
CO1209 or S1209 Series and the smoke alarms sound, but are not
synchronized, and the CO alarm does not sound, the red/yellow wire has been
used. Correct by using brown/yellow wire.
Use red/yellow wire to tandem interconnect GN-503 alarms to Gentex legacy
products. Legacy products include 9120/9123 Series, 7100/7103 Series,
710CS/713CS Series, 7109CS/7139CS Series, GN-200/GN-203 Series and
GN-300/GN-303 Series. Legacy products will not activate for CO event.
Use brown/yellow wire to tandem interconnect GN-503 Series alarms to
additional GN-503 Series, S1209 Series and CO1209 Series.
Do not tandem interconnect using both the red/yellow wire and brown/yellow wire
between adjacent alarms. Only 1 tandem interconnect wire is needed between
adjacent alarms.
NOTICE: IF A GN-503 SERIES OR CO1209 SERIES UNIT IS ANNUNCIATING
FOR A CO EVENT, LEGACY PRODUCTS WILL NOT ACTIVATE AND WILL
REMAIN SILENT.
CAUTION: Failure to observe any of the conditions set forth may cause system
malfunction and damage to the device.
WHITE
NOTE: GENTEX LEGACY PRODUCTS INCLUDE 9120, 9123 7100, 7103, 710CS,
713CS, 7109CS, 7139CS, GN-200, GN-203, GN-300 AND GN-303 SERIES.
THESE PRODUCTS WILL NOT ACTIVATE FOR A CO EVENT WHEN TANDEM
INTERCONNECTED TO A GENTEX CO OR SMOKE/CO ALARM.
