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Question about replacing CCI Controls Propane Gas Alarms and Propane Alarms with Tank Valve Shut-Offs with Comparable Safe-T-Alert models.

Q: "My CCI propane alarm in my RV has failed. What unit is available as a replacement since CCI Controls is not in business?" Thanks. Ed

Answer: Below is a chart. The entire unit must be replaced if your CCI Controls unit has an automatic gas valve shut off. Safe-T-Alert replacements for that unit will not work with the CCI valve.

Below is our main replacement chart.

CCI # Propane	MTI Replacements	MTI Replacements
CC-7719.04	70-742-R Kit with Valve	Surface Mount
CC-7719.58	70-742-R Kit with Valve	Surface Mount
CC-7719.70	70-742-R Kit with Valve	Surface Mount
CC-7773-231	30-442-BR or 35-742BR	Flush Mount
CC-7773.081	30-442-BR or 35-742BR	Flush Mount
CC-7773.251	30-442-WH or 35-742WH	Flush Mount
CC-7770.230	30-442-WH or 35-742WH	Flush Mount
CC-7770.231	30-442-WH or 35-742WH	Flush Mount
CC-7770.233	30-442-WH or 35-742WH	Flush Mount
CC-7770.234	30-442-WH or 35-742WH	Flush Mount
CC-7770.241	30-441-BR	Surface Mount
CC-7773.151	30-442-BR or 35-742BR	Flush Mount
CC-7770.244	30-441-WH	Surface Mount
CC-7770.250	30-442-WH or 35-742WH	Flush Mount
CC-7770.251	30-442-BR or 35-742BR	Flush Mount
CC-7770.253	30-442-BR or 35-742BR	Flush Mount
CC-7770.254	30-442-BR or 35-742BR	Flush Mount
CC-7770.281	30-442-BR or 35-742BR	Flush Mount
CC-7770.284	30-442-WH or 35-742WH	Flush Mount
CC-7771.231	30-442-BR or 35-742BR	Flush Mount
CC-7773.081	30-442-BR or 35-742BR	Flush Mount
CC-7773.151	30-442-BR or 35-742BR	Flush Mount
CC-7773.231	30-442-BR or 35-742BR	Flush Mount
CC-7773.251	30-442-BR or 35-742BR	Flush Mount
CC-7773.251	30-442-BR or 35-742BR	Flush Mount

Please contact Safe Home at sales@safehomeproducts.com or phone us if you have questions. We also sell Costar 9RV battery powered carbon monoxide alarms and Costar 12RV alarms with 9 volt battery back-up systems. Remember that propane leaks are dangerous and carbon monoxide are as well because they can kill silently.

To find these products on our website, go to www.safehomeproducts.com. Go to the search box. Enter for example Safe-T-Alert of 30-442 in the search and you'll get results fast.

Thank your for your question. Please contact us via sales@safehomeproducts.com if you have more questions.

Sincerely, Barbara

Question about replacement of CCI Controls carbon monoxide alarms with Safe-T-Alert Models.

Q: "How do I know which carbon monoxide alarms should replace the discontinued CCI controls models?" Thanks. Jim

Answer: Here is a chart provided by Safe-T-Alert. The Safe-T-Alert 65 Series come in flush mount (the 65-542) and in surface mount (the 65-541). Available colors are brown and white. Note; there is a rebate on both carbon monoxide and propane gas alarms for RV's. This offer is good for purchases between 4/1/2012 and 9/1/2012. The rebate is from the manufacturer so you must submit the paper work directly to them.

 

CCI CO Alarm		Safe-T-Alert Replacement
CC-3400.000	Flush Mount	65-542
CC-3400.001	Flush Mount	65-542-BR
CC-3400.003	Flush Mount	65-542
CC-3400.004	Flush Mount	65-542
CC-3400.050	Flush Mount	65-542
CC-3400.051	Flush Mount	65-542
CC-3400.052	Flush Mount	65-542
CC-3400.053	Flush Mount	65-542
CC-3400.060	Surface Mount	65-541
CC-3400-064	Surface Mount	65-541
CC-3400.062	Surface Mount	65-541
CC-3400.063	Surface Mount	65-541
CC-3400.064	Surface Mount	65-541
CC-3400.090	Surface Mount	65-541
CC-3400.091	Surface Mount	65-541
CC-3400.093	Surface Mount	65-541
CC-3400.094	Surface Mount	65-541

 

Thank you for your question. To find these products on our website, go to www.safehomeproducts.com. Go to the search box. Enter for example Safe-T-Alert of 30-442 in the search and you'll get results fast. Send us email to sales@safehomeproducts.com or phone us if you have more questions.

Sincerely, Barbara

Question about the Scentry III GFRAB Home LP/Natural Gas Detector.

Q: "How fast can you get a Scentry III system to me? Washington State now requires an automatic gas shut off system be installed before an occupancy permit can be issued for a new home who has a propane furnace in the basement. We are desperate. What I need are several components, the Scentry III GVL .75 Inch Gas Valve and the Scentry III GFRAB Home LP/Natural Gas Detector. My plumber is ready to install it. Our home rental is almost up. We are desperate. We have propane in this new home since it is in the country. Thanks. Robert."

Answer: Yours is the third sale to Washington state in the first two weeks of March. That is encouraging news to the building trade as the economy begins to improve.

The other sales were to Olympia, Seattle and to Bainbrdige Island. You live in Port Orchard. We appreciate that you've offered your contractor our contact information since we do have discounts available on packages of 6 units. We can next day air the units to you.

All customers ordered the 3/4 inch gas valve and the GRAB model. For those who are unfamiliar with these units, the Scentry models are all made in the USA, in fact in Davenport, IA. There is also a 220VAC model available for those who live outside the USA. All gas valves throughout the world are essentially sized the same so a USA made valve works fine in countries where 220V is the standard.

You should consider adding additional gas sensors if you have a propane range or propane fireplace. I know you've shared that both your water heater and furnace are in the same utility room.

In your case, you say that intermittent power failures are rare in your area plus your appliances do not have a standing pilot light. If a home owner with standing pilot light units elects to protect with a Scentry, then we do recommend the battery back-up unit.

Thank you for your question and for being our customer. We show your unit arrived on time, Next Day Air Saver, as you requested.

Sincerely,

Barbara

Question: "We recently converted to natural gas heat and gas hot water boiler. We have two floors above this basement installation. What safety alarm units are required for protection? Nate.

Answer: Thanks for your question for the Ask Barbara Contest, Nate. I am going to answer with the assumption that your home was all electric prior to this conversion. If you heated with propane or oil, some of these recommendations may not apply.

Natural gas homes or businesses need two different types of safety alarms.

Combustible Gas Alarms.

Why do I need a combustible gas detector/gas alarm?

The purpose of a combustible gas alarm is to alert you when you have a raw gas leak. Yes, mercaptan is added to natural gas to make it smell like rotten eggs. But if you are not in the area of the gas appliances and/or you do not have an ability to smell, the odor does you no good. This units must be installed near the gas using appliances. So if your gas furnace and gas water heater are side by side, one natural gas alarm is all you need.

No matter how good your nose is, you may not be in the right place at the right time to notice a natural gas or propane leak.

Carbon monoxide alarms give NO protection against combustible gas leaks. carbon monoxide sensors detect only carbon monoxide, not raw fuel.

Turning off a light, setting a security alarm or closing a door spark a gas explosion or fire. Natural gas leaking from a basement furnace can leak upstairs through hollow walls.

Gas can leak into homes via sump pits, inbound water lines or a natural gas well under your home.

Each gas appliance is a potential source of a gas leak. Each gas appliance needs its own gas detector

We sell two different models with gas specific sensors. These are the Safe-T-Alert Model 40-411-120 and the Safety Siren Pro Gas Alarm; The main differences between the units are how they are installed.

To properly install the Safe-T-Alert you need an electrical outlet near to the gas appliances. Because this unit has a line cord that is approximately 65 long, mounting ths unit properly is usually less a problem that the direct plug-in Safety Siren. Raw gas detection units must be mounted within 6 inches of the ceiling or on the ceiling at least 12 inches from a wall for natural gas leak protection. Natural gas pools above the appliance: think of an upside down pothole filling with water and you get the picture.

The Safety Siren requires an electrical outlet near the appliance. Many people choose this option because the Safety Alert unit has a safety tab through which an outlet screw goes. This means the unit cannot be removed from a standard, single screw, double outlet without removing the screw.  These units meet the UL1484 standards for combustible gas alarms.

Note: UL 1484 listed combustible gas detectors are not detectors for minute gas leaks. Sensors and detectors are tested in a combustible gas environment and meet the UL 1484 standards for alerts of dangerous gas levels. Deliberate exposure to natural gas, butane, propane, etc. can destroy the sensor in this unit. Use the test button to test this unit, not exposure to raw gas.

Carbon Monoxide Alarms:

One product of natural gas and all fossil fuels like coal, wood, peat, etc. is carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless gas. If your furnace and water heater are working properly, carbon monoxide is vented outside. If the vents are not working properly due to obstructions or the furnace heat exchanger cracks, then carbon monoxide is discharged into the air. Unlike combustible gasses, carbon monoxide does not pool but is distributed throughout your air. Carbon monoxide exposure symptoms range from flu-like symptoms to brain damage to death from asphyxiation.

Recommended at a minimum are carbon monoxide alarms in or outside every bedroom, near the gas appliances and at the top of stairways. The easiest to install are the 9 volt battery units. Believe the alarm even if it sounds intermittently. About 5 years ago, I went to visit my parents in Pennsylvania. They have a washer and gas dryer in their kitchen (since 1952). I noticed that the Costar 9 volt CO alarms were all off their mounts (there were three units total). I was told they were "defective" as they were going off intermittently. I took them home with me and sent them to Quantum Group to be tested. Dave from Quantum phoned and said nothing was wrong with them! Meanwhile, my elderly father did NOT install the plug in Safe-T-Alert unit I had sent them because "I didn't know where to put it." The problem was the vent for the gas dryer was partially clogged with lint!  Since then, local code has changed: their 4 inch diameter gas dryer vent had to be replaced with a 5 inch for the newest dryer to be installed this past year.

Types of Carbon Monoxide Alarms:

• 9 Volt Battery: Examples are the Costar 9V Home or RV with Solid-state Infrared (SIR) sensor with reservoir system  and the the Kidde 9 Volt with electrochemical sensor.
• 12/24V Security System Hard Wired Unit: Costar 12/24 which meets the UL standard 2075
• 120VAC hard wired: See the Safe-T-Alert Carbon Monoxide alarms on our website for this unit and the next two.
• 120VAC direct plug in
• 120VAC line cord
• 120VAC with Battery Back-Up. For example the the Kidde Nighthawk 120VAC Plug In with 9 volt battery back-up  

Also install and maintain your smoke alarms which I am sure you already have.

Thank you for your question and your entry in the Ask Barbara Contest.

Sincerely, Barbara

Question about the Scentry III GFRAB Automatic Gas Valve and Gas Detector System

Q:"After the explosion in San Bruno, CA on 9/9/2010, I am concerned about my home exploding. I have a natural gas furnace, a natural gas fireplace, a natural gas water heater and a natural gas range. I don't have a full basement: my crawl space is about 12 inches high. Drainage is excellent. There would be some moisture but not water. Can this automatic gas valve and sensor system system be installed there?I see that the Scentry III has a connection for an auto-dialer and also can be connected to a ventilation system. Thanks. Thomas."

Answer: This unit allows you to use remote gas detectors to place near your other gas appliances. There is a battery back-up available if you want protection during a power failure. We do have an installation manual available on our website for this unit.The Scentry Installation Manual.

The GFRAB stands for gas sensor, mounting feet, remote ready, alarm and battery and includes the gas valve shut-off/controller. NOTE: Must be used with a Scentry III gas valve (sold separately).  Each Scentry gas sensor is calibrated in a gaseous atmosphere so it will alarm at 10% of the lower explosive level (LEL) of the combustible gas. This is not a carbon monoxide alarm as it has only a combustible gas alarm sensor.

Scentry III-GFRAB Specifications:

    Case: ABS Plastic
    Physical Size: 7.6 inches by 4.6 inches
    Weight: 2.25 lbs
    Color: Gray
    Power consumption: 1.5va
    Supports up to 4 calibrated remote sensors (not included)
    Requires Scentry III-GVD gas valve (purchase separately)
    Supports Battery Back-Up (Not Included)
    Gas Valve Controller for combustible gasses such as natural gas or propane gas that includes a 24 volt transformer
    Connections: screw terminals
    Input Power: 115VAC, 60 Hz
    Output Control Relays: 2 amps, 24 VAC
    Alarm Signal Output: 12V DC @500 ma
    Reset: manual
    Sensor Type: Tin Dioxide Semiconductor
    Alarm Points: Propane (LP) <5200 PPM
    Alarm Points: Natural Gas / Methane <12,200 PPM
    Manufactured Proudly in the USA for Safety First USA, Inc.
    Warranty: 1 year from date of purchase.  

The gas valves include a 1/2 inch, a 3/4 inch and a 1 inch valve.

The Scentry III-GFRAB gas alarm and gas valve controller (shut-off) has the capability of adding options such as battery back-up, remote gas sensors and remote alarms.  If you add the battery option, you can keep pilot lights lit during intermittent power failures in regions such as the mountain states where electric power is not always continuous. A 12V output gives the option of a phone dialer to alert owners of vacation homes, etc. when an unsafe condition has occurred. Remote gas sensors can be added near gas ranges, gas water heaters, gas furnaces, gas heaters, etc. to add protection using only one gas valve controller.

Please contact us if you have questions about what components to install.

Thanks again for your timely question.

Sincerely, Barbara

 

Question about the Safe-T-Alert RV Propane Gas Alarms, Models 35-742, 30-441, 30-442 and 70-742

Question: "The CCI propane alarm in my RV needs replaced. I've just learned CCI is no longer in business. What are my options? Thanks, Tony."

Answer:  CCI closed down in February 2009.

To determine which unit you need, you need first to answer this question: Do you have a unit that shuts off the propane gas valve if there is a leak or is yours a propane gas alarm without an automatic gas valve shut-off?

For a unit that has a gas valve shut off, you need a 70-742-R Kit which is available in white, brown or almond. This kit includes the solenoid valve. Do not connect the Safe-T-Alert to any other valve or you risk a fire. These units replace the 7719.04 and 7719.7.

For a recessed or flush mount propane alarm only, the recessed propane gas alarm model 30-442 in brown, white or almond fits the CCI LP Gas Alarm Cut Out (7770 series) for Flush Mount Models. These can be mounted vertically or horizontally.

For a recessed or flush mount propane alarm only, you can add a carbon monoxide alarm and propane gas combination unit, the recessed 35-442 in brown, white or almond fits the CCI LP Gas Alarm Cut Out (7770 series) for Flush Mount Models. These can be mounted vertically or horizontally.

For a surface mount propane alarm only, the 30-441 in brown, white or almond replaces the CCI LP Gas Alarm 7770 surface mount series These can be mounted vertically or horizontally.

For a combination carbon monoxide and propane gas alarm, choose the 35-542 recessed unit in brown , 35-542 recessed unit in white or the special order 35-542 recessed combination unit in black. The cut out is the same as the CCI 7700 series cut-out.. Note: Some CCI units in Fleetwood or Winnebago RV's have two power leads. This unit has only one. Connect the red power lead to the coach power supply and cap or remove the other power lead. Use butt connectors to replace any unit with spade connections

Note: Some CCI units in Fleetwood or Winnebago RV's have two power leads, i.e. three wires. The Safe-T-Alert 30 and 35 series units have only one power lead. Connect the red power lead to the coach power supply and cap or remove the other power lead. Use butt connectors to replace any unit with spade connections.

CARBON MONOXIDE & PROPANE ALARM REPLACEMENT NOTICE: Note to Customers:

All Safe-T-Alert Propane and Carbon Monoxide Alarms that are 5 years old and older are beyond their Mandatory Replacement Time and MUST be replaced.

Background: Underwriters’ Laboratories (UL®) Carbon Monoxide Standard UL 2034 and Canadian Standards Association (CSA®) CSA 119.2 now require that all Carbon Monoxide alarms be designed to stop service in 3 to 5 years . UL and CSA have determined that Carbon Monoxide alarms have a limited life. Propane alarms use similar sensors and UL will require the same service life in the near future.

ALL MTI Propane and Carbon Monoxide alarms which are over five (5) years old MUST be replaced. The following Safe-T-Alert Carbon Monoxide Alarm Models MUST be replaced: SA-4, SA-5, 50-541 and 50-542. Models 60-541 and 60-542 over five (5) years old MUST be replaced.The following Safe-T-Alert Propane Alarms Models MUST be replaced: SA-7 and SA-8. Models 30-441,30-442, 40-441 and 40-442 that are over five (5) years old MUST be replaced.

Important! Only install CO and Propane alarms that are UL or CSA listed for Recreational Vehicle Use

I hope this helps.

Thanks for your question.

Sincerely, Barbara

 

Question about the Scentry III GFRAB Propane/Natural Gas Home Gas Detector.

Q: "Our oil burning furnace was replaced with a propane gas furnace. Our concern is gas leaks while we away, i.e. we want protection against explosions and fires. The CCI Controls gas valve system is no longer made. How does this unit work? What components do we need? Thanks. Jim."

Answer: The Scentry III GFRAB propane/natural gas detector is only one component of this home safety system. To have a complete system, you need these additional components:

• The Scentry III Gas Valve Controller
• The Battery Back Up in case there is a power failure.
• A compatible gas valve such as this .75 inch that is CSA (AGA/CGA) Certificate number 229521-1656058 Australian Gas Association Certificate number 4235,UL Recognized File Number MH5939.
• Optional: Remote Gas Sensors. Up to 5 remote explosive gas sensors can be monitored by the Scentry III GFRAB unit.

The compatible valves are in .5, .75 and 1 inch sizes. Each valve is an electrically operated gas shut off valve that opens and closes on a demand signal from a thermostat or other controlling device. Can be used with both natural gas and LP gas at pressures up to 0.5 psi. The White Rodgers replacement is a compression spring closing and soft seat construction gas valve.

The advantage of this system is that the controller unit supports up to 5 calibrated remote sensors.

Scentry III-GFRAB Specifications:

• Case: ABS Plastic
• Physical Size: 7.6 inches by 4.6 inches
• Weight: 2.25 lbs
• Color: Gray
• Power consumption: 1.5va
• Supports up to 5 calibrated remote sensors (not included)
• Requires Scentry III-GVD gas valve (purchase separately)
• Supports Battery Back-Up (Not Included)
• Supports Gas Valve Controller for Explosive Gas (Not Included)
• Connections: screw terminals
• Input Power: 115VAC, 60 Hz
• Output Control Relays: 2 amps,
• 24 VAC Alarm Signal
• Output: 12V DC @500 ma
• Reset: manual
• Sensor Type: Tin Dioxide Semiconductor
• Alarm Points: Propane (LP) <5200 PPM Alarm Points: Natural Gas / Methane <12,200 PPM
• Manufactured Proudly in the USA for Safety First USA, Inc.
• Warranty: 1 year from date of purchase.

Thanks for your question. Just remember propane gas and natural gas are safe sources of energy if you add protective measures including alarms, shut off valves and regular maintenance of the appliances that use gas.

Sincerely,

Barbara

 

Question about replacement 12 volt propane gas alarms for a motorhome.

Q:" How do I choose the correct 12 volt propane alarm for my motor home? The brand that was in my motorhome is no longer available?" Thanks. Joe

Answer: Currently, we are selling Safe-T-Alert propane alarms, USA manufactured, that meet all RV standards. Unfortunately, we are unable to locate a manufacturer that sells a unit with the third wire, that one that closes the propane gas valve if a leak if detected.

Choose a unit by answering these questions:

Is the current propane alarm mounted flush with the wall? If so, measure the opening. The units we sell are:

• 30-442 (Flush Mount)Case Dimensions:6.375"W x 2.875"H x 1"D
• 40-442RV Flush Mount Gas Alarm: Case Dimensions Recessed portion = 3"H x 4"W. Depth = 1 1/8". Flush mount portion = 4"H x 4 7/8"W. Screw Holes = centered, 4 1/2" apart.
  

Is the current propane alarm surfaced mounted, ie. not flush with the wall?

• 30-441 (Slim Line Surface Mount): Case Dimensions: 6"W x 1.875"H x 1.5"D
• 40-441RV Case Dimensions: Bottom (where mounted) = 3"H x 5 3/8"W. Top = 3"H x 5"W. Depth = 1 3/8". Screw holes = centered, approx. 5" apart.

Do you want a brown unit?

• 40-442A-BR is chocolate brown and a flush mount. The 40-441A-BR is the corresponding surface mount unit.
• The 30-441A=BR is the chocolate brown surface mount propane alarm and the 30-442A-BR is the chocolate brown flush mount model.

What is the maximum amp draw you want?

• Both the 40-441 and 40-442 draw 46 milliamp (0.046 amp.)
• The 30-441 and 30-442 draw 76 mA. This 30-442 can replace the CCI-7770 Propane Alarm that is discontinued.

The warranties are longer on the 40 series units. If you are interested in the product manuals, we have them listed below the pictures of each product.

I hope this helps answer your question. We do recommend that you test your propane alarms and your RV carbon monoxide alarms at least once per month.

Sincerely, Barbara

Question about the product Safety Siren Pro Series Combustible Gas Alarm

Q: "I work for a disposal company with a maintenance building located on an old landfill. Recently, we had need for a gas detector after an employee complained about a natural gas odor. A professional inspector suggested a gas monitoring device as he found a small amount of methane gas was leaking into that building. We need 6 gas monitors for that building. Is the Family Safety Gas Monitor the best choice? No local code says we need commercial gas alarms." - Dave

Answer: The Family Safety Products gas monitor meets all UL1484 standards: to meet your needs you'd need electrical outlets installed in each room that are within 6 inches of the ceiling. Methane is lighter than air and tends to puddle above a leak. Most standard electrical outlets are about 18 inches from the floor so these units would not work until the room was filled with gas.

If you do not want to install the electrical outlets, then I recommend that you purchase 6 of the Safe-T-Alert 40-411AC gas alarms and install them. These units have a 65 inch cord for nearer to the ceiling mounting.

Thanks for your question.

Sincerely, Barbara

Question about methane gas detectors for homes.

Q: "What is the coverage area for the natural gas leak detectors you recommend?-Judy"

Answer: Giving an exact coverage area is not possible for a variety of reasons. The best we can say is that a natural gas monitor be mounted near every potential gas leak source. Natural gas is lighter than air and rises to the ceiling above and near the gas leaking appliance. Even inside your home there are air currents in a room due to air conditioning or heating ducts, differences in temperature in a room (warmer air collects near the ceiling, cooler air settling to the floor).

Instruction manuals recommend that a natural gas monitor be mounted near the gas source for the most accurate detection. Mount the detector within 6 inches from the ceiling or on the ceiling at least 6 inches from the wall. Natural gas pools above the source gas, kind of like a stalactite begins from the ceiling of a cave.

We sell one brands of natural gas alarm that is easily installed because of the long cord. The Safe-T-Alert brand is made in Illinois and is UL1484 listed for use with natural gas and propane gas and also work with gasoline fumes and butane fumes. The home unit is the Safe-T-Alert 40-411AC . We sell another unit by Safety Siren Combustible Gas Alarm by Family Safety Products that requires that an outlet be installed near to the appliance at the proper height.

Thanks for your question.

Sincerely, Barbara