Precise Sensitivity Settings
Precise Sensitivity Settings | Smoke Detectors | Electrical | Kodak
Discover how HEP fine-tunes protection in Kodak with precise sensitivity settings that adapt to every environment, eliminating false alarms while catching the first hint of real danger. Our certified technicians calibrate state-of-the-art smoke detectors to the unique airflow, humidity, and occupancy patterns of your home or business, so you get instantaneous alerts when seconds matter and welcome silence the rest of the time.
From cozy cabins along the French Broad to bustling warehouses off Highway 66, we back each installation with data-driven testing and a satisfaction guarantee. When your peace of mind rides on reliable smoke detectors, trust HEP’s blend of electrical expertise and hometown service to keep every beep honest and every occupant safe.
FAQs
What are “precise sensitivity settings” on a Kodak electrical-smoke detector and why do they matter?
Sensitivity refers to the concentration of smoke (measured in %/ft obscuration) the detector must sense before it initiates an alarm. Kodak’s precise-sensitivity feature lets you set this threshold digitally rather than relying on a fixed factory value. Correct sensitivity ensures the detector reacts quickly to a real fire while avoiding nuisance alarms from cooking vapors, dust or steam. It also keeps the unit in compliance with NFPA 72 requirements for performance and periodic verification.
How do I adjust the sensitivity level on my Kodak intelligent smoke detector?
1. Power down the circuit and remove the detector from its base. 2. Connect the detector to the Kodak ConfigPro™ handset or the building’s fire-alarm control panel (FACP) in programming mode. 3. Navigate to “Detector Settings ➜ Smoke Sensitivity.” 4. Choose the desired threshold (e.g., 1.5 %/ft, 2.5 %/ft, or 3.5 %/ft obscuration). A lower number = higher sensitivity. 5. Save the setting and power the loop back up. The new value uploads to the detector’s non-volatile memory. 6. Record the change in the system log for future maintenance audits.
What sensitivity level should I use in different environments?
• Residential bedrooms & hallways: 2.0 – 3.0 %/ft provides quick detection with low false-alarm risk. • Commercial office space: 2.5 – 3.5 %/ft compensates for printer fumes and occasional dust. • Industrial or workshop areas: 3.0 – 4.0 %/ft reduces nuisance alarms from airborne particulates; combine with photo/heat multisensor models. • Clean rooms or data centers: 1.0 – 1.5 %/ft enables very early warning but requires tight environmental control. Always consult local codes and your fire-protection engineer before finalizing settings.
How can I verify that the detector’s sensitivity is still within specification?
Kodak detectors include automatic drift-compensation. However, NFPA 72 mandates a sensitivity test within one year after installation and every two years thereafter (annually for special-hazard areas). • Use the Kodak SensitiTest™ aerosol kit or an approved smoke-calibration device. • Initiate the panel’s Walk-Test mode. • Apply test smoke; the detector must alarm within the tolerance printed on its label. • The FACP logs “PASS/FAIL” and the measured obscuration level. If the reading is out of range, clean the detector and retest. Replace the unit if it still fails.
How often should I clean or recalibrate the detector to maintain proper sensitivity?
• Visual inspection: Every 6 months. • Functional smoke test: Every 12 months. • Cleaning (vacuum or compressed air): When the panel issues a ‘DIRTY DETECTOR’ or ‘MAINTENANCE URGENT’ trouble, typically every 18-24 months. • Recalibration: Only needed if cleaning does not return the detector to its original range. Use Kodak ConfigPro™ to reset the baseline. Regular maintenance prevents dust build-up that can desensitize the optical chamber or cause false alarms.
What problems occur if the sensitivity is set too high or too low, and how do I troubleshoot them?
Too High (low %/ft setting): • Detector may fail to alarm until a fire is well developed. • Possible code violation and liability exposure. Action: Lower the obscuration threshold or replace the detector with a higher-performance model. Too Low (high %/ft setting): • Frequent nuisance alarms from cooking, aerosols or dust. • Occupant complacency and unnecessary evacuations. Action: Raise the threshold, install remote test/maintenance devices, or add dual-sensor detectors (photo + heat) for better discrimination. If unsure, return to the factory default (2.5 %/ft), perform a sensitivity test, and consult Kodak technical support at 1-800-KODAK-FD.