UL 217 8th Edition FAQ’s
As we approach the UL217 8th Edition manufacturing change on June 30, 2024 we are dedicated to being a reliable source of information regarding this change. Here, find a set of frequently asked questions regarding BRK’s 8th Edition Precision Detection line.
Q: Is there going to be a 1 for 1 replacement? (Is what we make now going to be available in a UL 217 8th version, or will there be sku rationalization?)
A:The UL 8th Edition versions replace the 6th Edition models almost 1 for 1. There are some added and some removed.
Q: What types of technology will UL 8th recognize?
A: Both Ionization and Photoelectric technologies will be recognized.
Q: Will there be an increase in price?
A: With over 200 technical changes, a price change can be expected.
Q: How long after the change can I order (or get) the current product?
A: Anything manufactured after June 30, 2024 is required to meet 8th edition standards; 6th edition products manufactured before that date can continue to be sold until inventory is depleted.
Q: Will the new units be bigger, smaller, or the same size?
A: The models SMICO100-AC, SMICO105-AC, and SMICO100, will have a larger cover.Q: Will the mounting brackets change?
A: Models SM(CO)100V-AC, SMICO100-AC, SMICO105-AC, SMICO100 will have a different adaptor bracket. All other models will remain the same.
Q: Will the wiring harness change?
A: No, the new units will continue to utilize the same wiring from previous verisions.
Q: When will the new UL 217 8th products be available?
A: We are planning to release selected BRK branded SKUs meeting the UL 217 8th edition requirements in the first half of 2024 and certain First Alert branded SKUs are already available in select retail locations.
Q: When will we get the new model numbers and pricing?
A: Model numbers are available now; pricing is being determined and should be finalized before the end of year.
Q: What are 2 agencies authorized to test Smoke, Combo and CO Alarms?
A: UL and ETL
Q: Can BRK UL 6th and UL 8th alarms be installed together?
A: Yes
Q: Can you install 2 different manufacturers of detectors on the same circuit or the same house?
A: No. Our interconnect compatibility is only tested with other First Alert/BRK alarms.
Q: How often should the detectors be replaced?
A: Smoke and CO alarms should be replaced every 10 years or earlier when EOL is signaled.
Q: Can you install detectors on the wall or should they only be installed on the ceiling?
A: When installing on the wall, the top edge of Smoke Alarms should be placed between 4 inches (102 mm) and 12 inches (305 mm) from the wall/ceiling line.
Q: How often should you test the detectors?
A: It is recommended to test weekly.
Q: How will I know when its time to change the battery or replace the detector?
A: Alarm will chirp when time to replace; typically 1 chirp for battery and 5 chirps for EOL.
Q: Can you paint over the detectors installed on the ceiling?
A: No
Q: Can I install a detector in a bathroom?
A: It is possible but could cause unnecessary alarms due to excess steam. The NFPA recommends placement of a smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector in every level of the home and every bedroom.
Q: Can I install a CO detector in a garage?
A: It is recommended to avoid installing alarms in garages due to excess dust and dirt.
Q: Where to not install this alarm?
A: WHERE NOT TO INSTALL THIS ALARM
FOR BEST PERFORMANCE, IT IS RECOMMENDED YOU AVOID INSTALLING SMOKE/CO ALARMS IN THESE AREAS:- In garages, furnace rooms, crawl spaces, and unfinished attics. Avoid extremely dusty, dirty or greasy areas.
- Where combustion particles are produced. Combustion particles form when something burns. Areas to avoid include poorly ventilated kitchens, garages, and furnace rooms. Keep units at least 20 feet (6 meters) from the sources of combustion particles (stove, furnace, water heater, space heater) if possible. In areas where a 20-foot (6 meter) distance is not possible—in modular, mobile, smaller homes, for example—it is recommended the Smoke Alarm be placed as far from these fuel-burning sources as possible. The placement recommendations are intended to keep these Alarms at a reasonable distance from a fuel-burning source, and thus reduce "unwanted" Alarms. Unwanted Alarms can occur if a Smoke Alarm is placed directly next to a fuel-burning source. Ventilate these areas as much as possible.
- Within 5 feet (1.5 meters) of any cooking appliance. In air streams near kitchens. Air currents can draw a cooking smoke into the smoke sensor and cause unwanted Alarms.
- In extremely humid areas. This Alarm should be at least 10 feet (3 meters) from a shower, sauna, humidifier, vaporizer, dishwasher, laundry room, utility room, or other source of high humidity.
- In direct sunlight.
- In turbulent air, like near ceiling fans or open windows. Blowing air may prevent CO or smoke from reaching the sensors.
- In areas where temperature is colder than 40˚F (4.4˚C) or hotter than 100˚F (37.8˚C) These areas include non-airconditioned crawl spaces, unfinished attics, uninsulated or poorly insulated ceilings, porches, and garages.
- In insect infected areas. Insects can clog the openings to the sensing chamber.
- Less than 12 inches (305 mm) away from fluorescent lights. Electrical "noise" can interfere with the sensor.
- In "dead air" spaces.
Q: Do we need to be aware of AHJ's (Authority Having Jurisdiction) local requirements?
A: Yes, It will be important to know your AHJ requirements locally.
Q: What, if anything, will contractors see different from UL 8th smokes? Installation process is same/different?
A: No major differences in installation; major differences from internal components of the alarm that allow for earlier detection and less nuisance alarms.