12. How do Ei CO Alarms conforming to BS EN 50291 give warning?
13. Can the alarms be interconnected?
14. Can I signal to other devices from a CO alarm?
15. Can I interconnect CO alarms to a smoke alarm system?
16. Do they meet the standards?
17. Do the CO alarms have back-up power?
18. Are the mains operated models Ei261ENRC and Ei261DENRC easy to fit?
19. Will I get false/nuisance alarms?
20. How often should they be tested, and do they have to be serviced?
21. How will I know if it is my CO alarm or my smoke alarm?
22. How long does the unit last?
23. What should I do when the alarm goes off?
24. How much electricity does a mains operated CO alarm use?
25. Will it detect other gases?
26. Can I use it instead of a smoke alarm?
27. Why are CO alarms more expensive than smoke alarms?

Question 12. How do Ei CO Alarms conforming to BS EN 50291 give warning?

When the CO Alarm detects potentially dangerous levels of CO, a red light on the cover will flash. The alarm will sound if the CO levels persist, or rise. The list below shows how the alarm reacts to different levels of CO and exposure.

(CO level in ppm – Red alarm light – Sounder operates)

• 50ppm – 1 flash every 2 seconds – Within 60 to 90 mins
• 100ppm – 2 flashes every second – Within 10 to 40 mins
• 300ppm – 4 flashes every second – Within 3 mins

The Aico Ei261DENRC will indicate the ppm CO detected (above 50ppm) on the digital display on the front panel of the alarm cover.

Question 13. Can the alarms be interconnected?

The Aico Ei Professional model Ei261ENRC and Ei261DENRC (mains operated with Rechargeable Lithium cells) can be interconnected to other Ei261ENRC and Ei261DENRC units so that when one senses CO, they will all alarm. Twelve units may be interconnected, but only the unit sensing CO will have its red light lit in order to identify the area in which CO was detected. We would recommend that when more than one CO alarm is installed in a property they should be interconnected.

Question 14. Can I signal to other devices from a CO alarm?

Yes, either an Aico Ei261ENRC or Ei261DENRC can be used with a remote relay model Ei128RBU (with Ei128COV cover), which is rated at 5 Amps. The relay can be used to switch shut off valves, sounders or strobes, or signal to other suitable remote devices as required. The relay has an optional pulse feature, which is suitable for signalling to Warden Call Systems widely used in Sheltered Housing Schemes.

Question 15. Can I interconnect CO alarms to a smoke alarm system?

There is merit in interconnecting CO and smoke/heat alarm systems, as it will improve audibility throughout the property. However, it is generally considered that interconnecting CO alarms into a smoke/heat alarm system is not good practice, as the actions that should be taken in the different emergencies are quite unique:

• If a fire occurs, you should keep doors and windows closed to contain the fire as much as possible.
• If a CO leak occurs, you should open all doors and windows to ventilate the area as much as possible – at the same time turning off the appliance/s from where CO leak is being emitted.

We believe that interconnection between the 2 types of systems may be considered if the user is able to determine which of the alarms has caused the system to operate (the smoke alarm or the CO alarm) so enabling them to make the correct decision on what action should be taken. The only foolproof method of achieving this is by having a means of silencing the remaining system i.e the alarms not actually sensing smoke or CO. The solution to this problem would be the addition of an Ei1529RC Alarm Control Switch into the system.

If any of the alarms in the system operate (CO, smoke or heat) it is only necessary to press ‘Locate’ on the Aico Ei1529RC switch. This will silence all alarms that are not actually sensing either CO, smoke or heat, enabling the user to quickly and easily identify which of the alarms is sounding. This gives complete control over the system allowing the occupant to take the safest action according to the problem identified. Additionally, if found to be a false alarm, simply press ‘Hush’ on the control switch to silence the alarm. The entire alarm system can also be tested regularly by pressing the ‘Test’ switch.

The Aico Ei261ENRC and the Aico Ei261DENRC CO alarms have an interconnect feature that allows them to be interconnected with any of the Ei160RC series smoke and heat alarms (Not RadioLINK models). Adding the Ei1529RC switch is a simple job, only requiring a 3 core connection from the alarm (smoke, heat or CO) closest to where the Ei1529RC switch is to be installed.

Question 16. Do they meet the standards?

All the Aico Ei CO alarms comply with BS EN50291: 2001 and they are Kitemarked to show that they have been third party tested to this standard.

Question 17. Do the CO alarms have back-up power?

The mains operated models Ei261ENRC and Ei261DENRC are supplied complete with sealed-in tamper proof Rechargeable Vanadium Pentoxide Lithium standby cells, designed to last at least 10 years without the need for replacement and can power the unit for a minimum of 30 days in the event of mains failure. The battery is monitored, and if it starts to become depleted (i.e. with mains off), or if it becomes defective, the unit beeps every 40 seconds.

Question 18. Are the mains operated models Aico Ei261ENRC and Aico Ei261DENRC easy to fit?

Yes, these models are supplied with an `Easi-fit` surface mounting plate, with integral terminal block and cable cover. The terminal block is permanently fitted to the mounting plate. The built-in battery connects as the unit is slid on to the plate. Conduit (up to 25 x 16mm) can be attached to the top or bottom of the unit for surface wiring. The units can be ceiling or wall mounted.

Question 19. Will I get false/nuisance alarms?

Every effort has been made to make the unit insensitive to normal household chemicals. However, units may go into alarm if cigarette smoke is deliberately blown into the unit, or if aerosols, paints or similar materials are used nearby. All Aico Ei CO alarms are fitted with a manual test/hush button which, when pressed, will silence low levels of CO gas for approximately 5 minutes. The unit will then automatically re-set to standby mode. For safety reasons the hush feature cannot over-ride an alarm caused by dangerously high levels of CO.

Question 20. How often should they be tested, and do they have to be serviced?

The CO alarm should be tested weekly by pressing the test button. The alarm may be cleaned externally with the narrow nozzle of a vacuum cleaner and wiped down with a damp cloth (disconnect the mains on Ei261ENRC / Ei261DENRC / Ei225EN models). The sensor may be tested annually in CO gas to ensure that it is fully operational. To simplify this process, all the Aico Ei CO alarms have a “quick test” feature. Pressing the test button causes the unit to sample for CO every 4 seconds so that when CO gas is injected into the sensor it will respond almost immediately with 3 short beeps. The alarm will automatically re-set to standby within 3 minutes. Apart from sensor replacement after 5 years (Ei261ENRC and Ei261DENRC only) no other servicing is required (see 22 below).

Question 21. How will I know if it is my CO alarm or my smoke alarm?

The Aico Ei range of Carbon Monoxide alarms have a distinctive on-off sound of 3 pulses, followed by a pause, as compared with a typical smoke alarm which has a rapid pulsing sound. In addition, when the CO alarm is detecting CO, the red light in the centre of the cover will flash.

Question 22. How long does the unit last?

The Carbon Monoxide alarms are sophisticated electronic devices with many parts, including the sensors, and will not last indefinitely. We recommend that the Aico Ei205ENA and AicoEi225EN models should be replaced after 5 years in operation. The mains operated models Aico Ei261ENRC and Aico Ei261DENRC are designed to last 10 years and have a replaceable sensor module,which we recommend be replaced after 5 years use. This simply requires the pulling out of the sensor module from the rear of the alarm and replacing with a new sensor module (Aico Ei261MEN) readily available at a modest cost.

Question 23. What should I do when the alarm goes off?

• Open the doors and windows to ventilate the area.
• Stop using the appliance; turn it off if possible.
• Evacuate the property leaving the doors and windows open.
• Ring your gas or other fuel supplier on their emergency number; keep the number in a prominent place.
• Do not re-enter the property until the alarm has stopped.
• Get medical help immediately for anyone suffering the effects of CO poisoning (headache, nausea) and advise that CO poisoning is suspected.
• Do not use the appliance again until it has been checked by an expert; in the case of gas appliances this must be a CORGI registered installer.

Question 24. How much electricity does a mains operated CO alarm use?

The Aico Ei261ENRC / Ei261DENRC / Ei225EN models use only one unit of electricity per week.

Question 25. Will it detect other gases?

The Aico Ei series of Carbon Monoxide alarms are precisely calibrated so that they will only detect CO gas. THEY WILL NOT detect the presence of natural gas (methane), propane, butane or other combustible gases/fuels. Therefore, a detector specific to the other gas, or gases, that may be present must be used in addition to the CO detector, as required.

Question 26. Can I use it instead of a smoke alarm?

No! The Carbon Monoxide alarms are not suitable as early warning fire alarms. Fire produces CO, however the measured response of the CO alarm could allow a fire to get out of control before it warned of danger. Smoke alarms must be fitted for protection against fire.

Question 27. Why are CO alarms more expensive than smoke alarms?

The technology used in the Aico Ei Carbon Monoxide alarms is much more complex and sophisticated than smoke alarm technology. Cheaper less sophisticated CO alarms are available, but they may not be as reliable and are commonly prone to false alarm.

Read the first part of the Aico FAQ on the Aico Carbon Monoxide Alarms (download this guide from Aico, or see the full list of questions here and here), the first 11 questions:

1. What is Carbon Monoxide?
2. Where does CO come from?
3. What are the symptoms of CO poisoning?
4. How big is the problem of CO poisoning?
5. How can I protect myself and my family from CO?
6. Why do I need a CO alarm?
7. I have no gas burning appliance in my house – do I need a CO alarm?
8. How does the Aico Ei range of CO alarms work?
9. Where should a CO alarm be sited?
10. How many CO alarms should I fit?
11. Why does the time for the horn to come on depend on the concentration of CO?

In the range of the Aico Carbon Monoxide Alarms, the Contractor’s First Choice are the Mains Powered & Battery CO Alarms For Owner Occupied Properties  – the Aico Ei225 series

The Aico Ei225 Series of Carbon Monoxide alarms are designed to provide reliable mains powered CO detection. Using the same proven CO sensor as the Aico Ei260 series, the unit is designed with performance in mind. Useful and practical features such as the built in pattress with integral terminal block and CO gas quick-test feature ensure straightforward installation and testing.

The Aico Ei225 Series – Mains Powered Alarm

The Aico Ei225EN

• Proven Electrochemical Cell CO sensor module, minimum 5 year life;
• Kitemarked to BS EN 50291: 2001;
• Automatic self diagnostics;
• Easy to use test/hush button;
• Distinctive alarm sound is easily distinguishable from a smoke/heat alarm;
• Pre alarm warning – alarm LED will flash;
• Memory feature – indicates last recorded CO level;
• Quick CO gas test feature – saves time and money;
• LED indicators for power, CO level and fault status conditions;
• Built-in pattress with integral terminal block and surface wiring knockout;
• Fixing kit included;
• Full technical specification sheet available on request;
• 5 year guarantee;
• Buy online the Aico Ei225EN, part of the Ei225 series, mains powered Aico Carbon Monoxide Alarms.

The Aico Ei220 Series – DIY Mains Only With Pre-wired Lead & Plug

The Aico Ei220EN

• 3-pin plug with 2.5m pre-wired cable;
• Automatic self diagnostics;
• Easy to use test/hush button;
• Distinctive alarm sound;
• Pre-alarm warning – alarm LED will flash;
• Memory feature – indicates last recorded CO level;
• LED indicators for power, CO level and fault status conditions;
• Buy online the Aico Ei220EN, part of the Aico Ei220 series, mains powered Aico Carbon Monoxide Alarms.

The Aico Ei205 Series – DIY Battery Only

The Aico Ei205ENA

• 3 x AA Alkaline Batteries – sealed in unit designed to last for the lifetime of the alarm;
• Automatic self diagnostics;
• Easy to use test/hush button;
• Distinctive alarm sound;
• Pre-alarm warning – alarm LED will flash;
• Memory feature – indicates last recorded CO level;
• LED indicators for power, CO level and fault status conditions;
• Buy online the Aico Ei205 (CO215 our code), Aico Ei series with battery only.

Concerning the Aico CO alarms, read more about the Specifier’s First choice, or more details about the CO alarms(fire-detect.co.uk). Don’t forget: the Carbon Monoxide Alarms can be found at the Fire and Security – Domestic Fire Alarms, and for more info consult the CO alarms from Aico page, the Innovative design/main features of the CO alarms, or the CO alarms explained. These advices from Aico can also be found online here.

The Aico Carbon Monoxide alarms, the Aico Ei260 Series are the Specifier’s First Choice Mains Powered Alarms, With 10Yr+ Rechargeable Lithium Cells & Replaceable CO Sensor

The Aico Ei260 Series of Carbon Monoxide alarms are the highest specification units, designed to meet the most demanding requirements of a domestic installation in terms of reliability, longevity and performance. With sealed-in rechargeable cell back-up, a reliable power supply is virtually assured as casual removal of the battery is not possible. With useful and practical features such as the Easi-fit style mounting plate, CO gas quick-test feature and Remote Control functionality, installation, testing and control has never been easier!

Read more about the Aico Ei261ENRC, Aico Ei261DENRC, their interconnection, and the ancillary products.

Carbon Monoxide Alarm – Aico Ei261ENRC

• Mains with 10Yr+ rechargeable lithium cell back-up
• Remote Control functionality
• Electrochemical CO sensor module, 5-6 year life
• Sensor is replaceable to double product life
• Kitemarked to BS EN 50291: 2001
• Automatic self diagnostics
• Easy to use test/hush button
• Distinctive alarm sound is easily distinguishable from a smoke/heat alarm
• Pre-alarm warning – alarm LED will flash if CO level is rising
• Interconnect feature – for use with other Ei260 series alarms and Ei128RBU relay module with Ei128COV cover
• Quick CO gas test feature – essential when testing with CO gas canisters
• LED indicators give accurate information on power, CO level and fault status conditions
• Full technical specification sheet available on request(contact us)
• 5 year guarantee on the complete unit and sensor module

Aico Carbon Monoxide Alarms – Aico Ei261DENRC

• The same high performance features as the Ei261ENRC model with the added feature of a built-in easy to read digital display
• Displays the current CO level in ppm (parts per million)
• Operating the test button will also activate the memory feature and the digital display will show the previous maximum CO level sensed
• Full technical specification sheet available on request(contact us).

Why Rechargeable Vanadium Pentoxide Lithium Cells?

The 10Yr+ rechargeable lithium back-up used in the Aico Ei260 series alarms provides the highest performance and most reliable back-up coverage. The precision charging circuit ensures peak efficiency as the cells are constantly ‘topped-up’ from the mains. Laser welded terminals further enhance reliability. They outperform the alkaline and lithium primary batteries currently used in other alarms.
In addition, they are the only cells with a realistic 10 year life expectancy – confirmed by the manufacturer, Panasonic.

Interconnect & Remote Control Feature

Models Ei261ENRC & Ei261DENRC

The Problem
Audibility throughout the home is a priority, as a situation could arise where a CO alarm is installed in a downstairs kitchen, which has a fossil fuel burning appliance within it, and the alarm signal may not be heard in the upstairs bedrooms or indeed other rooms.

The Solution!
Use the interconnect feature on the Aico Ei261ENRC/Ei261DENRC to connect to your existing Ei160RC smoke/heat alarm installation. Then, you must introduce an Ei1529RC Alarm Control Switch to provide control over the whole system.
The interconnect feature allows the CO alarm to trigger all Ei160RC mains smoke/heat alarms installed and vice-versa – giving increased audibility in either a CO or fire situation. If all alarms are sounding, pressing ‘Locate’ on the Aico Ei1529RC Alarm Control Switch will silence all the alarms except the alarm sensing a CO or fire situation. This gives control over the system and allows occupants to select the safest action and/or escape route.
Additionally, if found to be a false alarm, simply press ‘Hush’ on the Control Switch to silence the alarm. The entire alarm system can also be tested regularly by pressing the ‘Test’ switch(see the diagram below).

Ancillary Options For the Aico Ei260 Series

Ei128RBU Relay

• Internal 5 Amp relay with Volt-free ‘clean’ contacts
• Contacts rated to 240V AC
• Mains operated
• 10yr+ rechargeable cell back-up
• For use with Ei128COV cover to enable remote siting
• Switchable pulse or continuous output options
• Battery back-up allows contacts to switch even if mains power supply fails
• For use with Ei260 Series alarms only

SAB300 Strobe

• Xenon beacon
• Mains operated
• 3W Xenon tube, 0.9Hz flash rate
• For connection through an Ei128RBU relay
• Available with clear (‘C’) or red (‘R’) lens (add suffix to product code)
• Integral mounting base

GSV415SA Gas Solenoid Valve

• Mains operated
• For connection through an Ei128RBU relay
• Closes internal valve when mains is applied
• Push button reset
• 1/2 “ internal parallel pipe thread to ISO7-1

Aico Ei261MEN & Ei261M Replacement Sensor Module

• Simple plug-in installation
• Doubles life cycle of the product
• ‘Ei261MEN’ to suit models Ei261ENRC/Ei261DENRC/Ei261DEN/Ei261EN
• ‘Ei261M’ to suit models Ei261D/Ei261

Ei1529RC Alarm Control Switch

• Wall mounted
• Supplied with surface box, can be flush mounted using a standard 35mm deep electrical socket box.
• Can be fitted anywhere in the system
• For use when interconnecting Ei160RC smoke/heat alarms with Ei260 Series CO alarms
• Allows Alarm Test, Hush, Locate and Mains Check functions

Don’t forget: the Carbon Monoxide Alarms can be found at the Fire and Security – Domestic Fire Alarms, and for more info consult the CO alarms from Aico page, the Innovative design/main features of the CO alarms, or the CO alarms explained. These advices from Aico can also be found online here.

Have you ever wondered how do Carbon Monoxide Alarms work? Aico introduces the technology they use in the Aico Ei series of CO alarms.

The Electrochemical Cell – Provides effective and responsive, long term detection

1. Carbon Monoxide enters the sensor through a gas diffusion hole. A Graphite filter prevents any external contaminants from entering. A Platinum sensing electrode catalyses the oxidation of the CO.
2. Combining with the water present in the electrolyte, this reaction causes the voltage to rise. Consequently, a small current flows between the two electrodes.
3. This output is directly proportional to the amount of CO gas present. The microchip in the unit activates the horn/LED/display to give a warning applicable to the CO level sensed.

Locating and Positioning CO Alarms

Where should CO Alarms be located?

BS EN 50292 the code of practice for the selection, installation, use and maintenance of domestic CO alarms, recommends the following location for CO Alarms:

• Install an Aico CO Alarm in all rooms where there is a fuel burning appliance;
• If there is more than one appliance, but only one CO Alarm is to be installed, the following priority list is recommended:

1. Rooms containing a flue-less or open-flued appliance;
2. Rooms where occupants spend most time;
3. Rooms in which the appliance is most used;
4. If the dwelling is a bedsit the CO alarm should be positioned away from the appliance, but close to the sleeping area.

CO Alarms should not be located:

• In an enclosed space e.g a cupboard;
• Where it can be obstructed;
• Directly above a sink;
• Next to a door or window;
• Next to an extractor fan or vent;
• Where dirt & dust may block the sensor;
• In a damp or humid location;
• In the immediate vicinity of a cooking appliance.

When only one CO Alarm is to be fitted, audibility of the sounder may be a problem in other areas of the property.

Where should CO Alarms be positioned?

CEILING MOUNTING

The preferred position is in rooms containing a fuel burning appliance, more exactly:

• 1-3m horizontally from the appliance;
• At least 300mm from any wall and obstructions (e.g. light fitting);

Wall Mounting Option

• 1-3m horizontally from appliance;
• 150mm vertically down from ceiling;
• Above the height of any doors or windows;

Buy online CO alarms – Carbon Monoxide detectors – at the Domestic Fire Alarms, Aico CO Alarms. Aico’s answer to the Carbon Monoxide Reliable Detection is calibration – read the article; find out more about the Carbon Monoxide Poisoning, and discover the Aico CO(Carbon Monoxide) Alarms range – online.

In this short article, Aico explains how Thorough Calibration is The Answer to Reliable Carbon Monoxide Detection.

The Aico Ei CO alarms made to exceed BS EN 50291: 2001 – Precise and reliable calibration is now even more important

The BS EN 50291 British and European Standard for CO Alarms requires a much lower trigger level than the previous BS 7860, which it supersedes. This is designed to give added protection to the more vulnerable members of society: the very young and the elderly. However, this can mean that nuisance alarm from very low levels of CO can occur if the sensor is not very accurately calibrated. To minimise this risk:

• Prior to alarm assembly every Aico Ei CO sensor is independently calibrated at the factory in CO gas
• After alarm assembly every Aico Ei CO Alarm is further tested in CO gas at the factory

These facts, coupled with sustained levels of quality throughout the manufacturing process ensure the very highest standard of reliability and immunity from nuisance alarm.

Comprehensive Precision Calibration and Testing at 5 stages of the Manufacturing Process

1. Step 1: Sensors mounted on bespoke calibration circuits are loaded into the CO enclosure, where the CO gas exposure program can be run.
2. Step 2: As the CO gas exposure program is run, the sensors are subject to precise CO levels for set times with each sensor’s individual response being recorded by the calibration circuitry
3. Step 3: Once recorded, the sensors are loaded into a custom interface to extract data on each individual sensor’s response.
4. Step 4: The sensors are analysed and are grouped according to their response. Each group is then installed into a specifically calibrated circuit within the alarm, ensuring that all alarms accurately respond when subjected to CO gas.
5. Step 5: Following assembly, all finished alarms are functionally checked for response and accuracy in CO gas before despatch.

Nominal Time to Alarm & % COHb

* When CO is inhaled, it combines with the haemoglobin in the blood to form Carboxyhaemoglobin (COHb). The CO displaces the oxygen attached to the haemoglobin and as such causes oxygen starvation throughout various parts of the body.

BS EN 50291:2001 requires CO Alarms to trigger before the %COHb in a typical user has risen above approx 5 % COHb at low CO levels, such as 50 ppm CO. At higher levels, such as 300 ppm CO, the alarms must trigger before the level in a typical user has risen above 2 %COHb. The effects of COHb vary from one person to another, people at most risk are the elderly, the very young, pregnant women and those whose health is already compromised. The adjacent chart shows that the level of CO present over a period of time increases the %COHb and that Aico Ei CO alarms respond well before a dangerous %COHb level is reached. However, it should be noted that people with heart disease and other associated illnesses may suffer harmful effects even at low COHb levels.

It is recommended therefore to install the CO alarms in the premises of your home, for the protection of your health & your family’s health. Please consult the article concerning the Carbon Monoxide Poisoning and our offer of CO alarms from Aico – domestic Fire alarms, in the Fire and Security section. For more information visit the Fire-Detect.co.uk website, the Carbon Monoxide Alarms page, or the articles introducing the CO alarms from Aico and Carbon Monoxide Poisoning – the landlord’s responsibility.