Safe-Home.com

Question about the Costar 9 volt RV Carbon Monoxide Alarm.

Q: "I need to install three 9 volt carbon monoxide alarms to comply with Amanda's law. Does the 9RV meet the standards? Thanks." Carl

Answer: Yes. This battery operated carbon monoxide alarm meets the UL 2034 requirements and also the New York City requirements to protect occupants of homes, hotels, etc. from carbon monoxide poisoning. Under Amanda's Law which was passed in February 2010, all homes built before January 1, 2008, are permitted to have battery-powered CO alarms. Those houses built after January 1, 2008 must have hard-wired alarms, i.e. AC alarms that may or may not have a battery back-up. Prior to this law, only homes built or bought after July 30, 2002 were required to have carbon monoxide alarms.

Amanda's law also requires contractors in New York State to install a CO alarm when replacing a hot water tank or furnace if the home is not equipped with an alarm.

Amanda's law came after 16-year-old Amanda Hansen of West Seneca, New York, who died on January 17, 2009, due to a carbon monoxide leak from a defective boiler while she was sleeping at a friend's house.Amanda's parents, despite their grief, worked hard to get this law enacted. The law requires CO alarms in all existing one- and two-family residences: each has to have at least one carbon monoxide alarm installed on the lowest floor of the building with a sleeping area. The alarm must be clearly heard in all sleeping areas over background noise levels even with doors closed.

Other hard-wired carbon monoxide alarms to consider are the Safe-T-Alert 120VAC CO Alarm and the Costar 12 Volt Hard-Wired Alarms that have relays to connect to a security system as well.

Thanks for your question. Remember to check all smoke detectors and all natural gas and propane gas alarms at least once a month.

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 the Washing Machine FloodStop FS3/4H-90 compared to the Watts IntelliFlow Automatic Washing Machine Water Shutoff Valves with Leak Sensor.

Q: "How do the Floodstop FS3/H-90 unit and the Intelliflow Series A2C-M differ? I am looking for a water leak alarm and am not certain which one to purchase. Thanks. Stefan."

Answer: All that I know about the Intelliflow water leak alarm is from Internet reviews and from the manufacturer's website.

I recommend you choose the Floodstop unit unless you are looking for a main water valve shut off such as the WaterCop that also uses individual water sensors. My recommendation is based on personal experience, customer feedback, repeat large orders from condo associations and plumbers and internet reviews. The IntelliFlow negative reviews are numerous on customer postings while the FloodStop Washing Machine units are all positive comments.

Safe Home Products has sold the Floodstop units since 2003 with only two customer problems. One customer had difficulty getting the automatic water valve on his hot water heater Floodstop to re-open after it closed when his water heater began leaking on the floor. The second person had a unit that was defective from the start, the actuator did not work properly. We have literally sold thousands of the different models with only praise.

FloodStop comments were all positive and include:

• Easily installed: less than 30 minutes.
• Off button: able to manually shut off water without reaching behind the washer.
• Works great.
• Does what it is supposed to do: protects from leaks.

IntelliFlow negative comments are related primarily to water flow:

• electronics fails completely sometimes in less than one year.
• electronics cause the unit to open and close the valves repeatedly causing knocking sounds.
• electronics cause the unit to cycle on and off with high efficiency machines
• electronics cause the unit to shut off the water before the extended high efficiency cycle (can often be over an hour on my Kenmore) is complete.

Basic descriptions of both the Watts IntelliFlow and the Floodstop follow.

Intelliflow Automatic Washing Machine Water Shutoff Valve Series A2C-M

The Watts IntelliFlow Automatic No. 2 (A2C-M) has a state of the art electric current sensing device. Water valves open when the washer is turned on and the current flow to the washer is sensed. After the full wash cycle is completed, the device senses the lack of current and closes the water valves. The logic is that an automatic operation protects against water damage if a washing machine inlet hose breaks when no one is around. Constant water pressure can cause traditional washing machine hoses to burst.

Also the leak sensor senses leaks during the wash cycle and shuts off the water valves to prevent flooding.

# IntelliFlow A2C-M Specifications: UL listed
# Maximum Pressure: 150psi (10 bars)
# Maximum Temperature: 180°F (82°C)
# 115VAC, 15A, 60Hz
# Cord: 15ft
# Current draw (with appliance off): 20mA
# Maximum appliance current rating: 15A
# Circuit breaker requirement: 15 amp. GFI *

FloodStop Washing Machine Unit:

Automatically shuts off water to the washing machine when water leaks from a hose or the machine and sounds an alarm. All other household plumbing fixtures and appliances are unaffected. Installation is simple.

To install, connect the two Floodstop Valves to the hot and cold water supply lines. Mount control unit to wall. Place sensor(s) on floor. Units are operated by either by 120 vAC adapter (included), Batteries OR BOTH!

NOTE: DO NOT PLACE SENSOR DIRECTLY ON METAL PAN OR DAMP FLOOR. If no water is present and sensor sounds alarm, place paper towel or cloth under sensor to "insulate" against dampness of floor or metal of pan. Once the paper or cloth gets wet, the sensor will activate the shut-off and sound the alarm. Sensor will sound if placed on metal.

Kit Contents: everything you need to protect your property:

    * Two 3/4" motorized ball valves with hose fittings to install on both hot and cold water inlets.
    * Water sensor to place on the floor. If there is a washing machine drain pan, purchase another sensor to place inside pan.
    * Control Unit to be mounted with screws or Velcro (included).
    * AC Adapter and/or batteries for power source.

Similarities: Both shut off water.

Differences:  How and by what means the valves are shut.

• IntelliFlow: Washer water valves are opened and closed at the beginning and end of what the Intelliflow believes is the washer's cycle, as evidenced by a sensor for electric current. In other words, the Intelliflow shuts off hot and cold water valves when the washer stops using electricity and/or when the moisture sensor senses a leak when the unit it operating.
• The Floodstop shuts off hot and cold water valces when a leak is sensed during machine operation, when a hose breaks, when the pan beneath the machine has water leaking into it from a washing machine leak, etc.when the washing machine is operating or when it is there with water sitting in the hoses.

I hope this has been helpful. Thanks for your question.

Sincerely,

Barbara

 

Barbara discusses the FloodChek washing machine hoses and the FloodStop automatic water shut off valve system for washing machines. The FloodStop system with water alarm and water sensors alerts of washing machine leaks. Easily installed, the rupture proof washer inlet hoses plus the FloodStop prevent or stop water leaks from causing water damage. 24/7 protection from leaking washing machines or leaking hoses.

Question about the product Product Code P3-P7816 P3 International Attack Wave Pest Repeller&

Q: "I was inquiring about using the P3 International Attack Wave Pest Repeller for a problem we have. We have recently purchased a log/cedar shake-home that has been vacant for at least 2+yrs, inspection done-some how... missed a "bunch-O-bats" Inside and out!!Never even knew they were there. I have to do something now!!.(2- KIDS) Do you, or can you recommend a product that will drive bats out of an immeadiate area? How many watts... hertzz... does it take to drive these things elsewhere?? Bat houses take up to a year or more to attract a colony? I could use any ideas!! Please HELP!!! Thanks again. LS

Answer: You certainly do have a challenge. Bat houses are the best answer and great for mosquito population reduction, too. The Attack Wave works quite well for indoor rodents. However, I would not recommend using these units for bats. I have several recommendations.

First is the Transonic Pro ultrasonic and sonic rodent and animal pest repeller.We've sold hundreds and hundreds of these for bats, cats, rats, etc. A log type reception center in Cedar Rapids mounted them on the walls inside the reception area to clear out the bats. Customer have placed them in attics, outside under covered areas up high to chase off bats, etc. Results have been excellent. You will need at least 2 units inside your attic, more if your attic has an irregular shape. These use AC power. Outside you'll need at least one on each outside wall, probably up high where the bats congregate.

A second is the Evictor Strobe Light This is a permanent installation of a 175,000 candlepower strobe light unit that has a low wattage bulb. Although made for squirrels and roof rats, this unit also gets rid of bats. It is a high intensity strobe light mounted in the attic. There are tests being run currently by a testing lab on bats so this can be put on the labeling. Depending upon the attic size and shape, you may need two of these installed 2 to 3 feet above the floor. If you use these in conjunction with the Transonic Pro units, your results should be even faster.

A third is the Quadblaster. This is an industrial strength ultrasonic repeller for larger areas. One customer who installed on in his warehouse said that not only did bats and birds vanish but also the rats and mice disappeared.

Knowing the size and configuration of your home would help. Please feel free to phone us or send us additional information including digital photos by email.

Hope some of these ideas help. Thanks for your questions.

Sincerely,

Barbara

Question about Kids Edge Hearth Safety Pad installation when there is no metal frame.

Q: "How do I install hearth pad on the edge and sides of my fireplace hearth if it does not have the metal frame? My hearth is poured concrete so I don't need the frame. How do I know if I have purchased enough padding? Thanks." Tom

Answer: First decide which color you want. Padding comes in gray, brown, black, taupe and ivory. Next measure the length of the hearth. Then measure the width of the side or sides. If the total equals 150 inches or less, the standard hearth pad kit will work. Each kit contains 90 inches of straight padding and two corners that are 10 inches by 20 inches. So you can cover the front of a hearth that is up to 130 inches long with 10 inches of returns to the fireplace or 110 inches of width with a return of 20 inches in depth.

These are the steps to take:

1. Make sure the hearth edge is clean and dry.
2. Lay out the pad on the hearth to determine how it will fit.
3. Attach the corners, Remove the adhesive backing from the lower part of the pad. Fit it onto the hearth. Next remove the adhesive backing from the upper portion and press it onto the hearth.
4. Next attach the straight pieces to the hearth. Press ends together as you attach each piece to help conceal joints.
5. Most likely, you will need to cut the last piece installed.
6. Measure the space to be covered accurately
7. Add approximately 3/8 inch and mark the pad.
8. Place pad on shipping box edge.
9. Use a sharp long bladed knife such as a fillet knife in this next step
10. Lubricate the entire length of the knife with liquid soap or soapy water
11. Using light pressure, move the knife back and forth on the top of the pad, keeping the blade straight.
12. Repeat on bottom half after turing over the pad
13. Attach the last piece of pad by removing the backing as noted in step 3.

If you need additional lengths of padding, you can purchase by the foot or by the 54 inch stick. Remember extra padding can be used to pad tops of stairways into basements, etc.

Thanks for your question. We recommend that you do a safety walk around of your entire home as well to find other places that need safety proofing. Among the most dangerous items are aquariums, tv sets, bookcases, windows open more than 4 inches and sharp corners and edges on furniture.

Sincerely, Barbara

Question: about the WaterCop and the Flood Stop

Q:"Does Safe Home Products have an opinion as to the comparison between Water Cop and Flood Stop? I've read the product guides and understand the product's features. Which is more reliable or has the best track record? Thanks, David S"

Answer: Your decision needs to be made upon these factors:

1. What do you want to protect? A single appliance or several appliances? Floodstop makes single water appliance units for water heaters, washing machines, sinks, icemakers, etc.     More...

Question about the JS-1135-Q2, John Sterling Set of TWO WHITE 5 Bar Swing Open Window Guards

Q: "We are living in a starter home. The second story windows are very close to the floor. Each room has two double hung windows. We want to protect our children from falling through the screens since we live in California where we rarely use our air conditioning. Our windows are 38 inches wide and 42 inches high. Is this the correct size for our windows. We want safety but don't want to pay a huge price." Thanks Sara.

Answer: The John Sterling window guard you refer to is made of steel, white in color and tested to withstand a force of 150 pounds at maximum extension if properly installed. We sell this guard either in a single pack or a case of 2. Figure on no more than $140 for the pair including shipping (July 2009) unless you live in a very rural area.   More...

Question about the product 16 oz. Bottle Grip On Anti-Slip Solution SS0016

Q: "Can this be used on fingers/hands?" Carl
Answer: No, Grip-On is not for use on hands. To apply it to ceramic tile, concrete, marble, etc. to increase the coefficient of resistance to slipping, skidding, etc. , you should wear rubber gloves or be careful not to get the product on your hands.

Below is information from the Material Data Safety Sheet:

Chemical Name: Hydroxy Acetic Acid.

Physical State: Clear yellow, mild odor.

pH: 7.6.

Caution: Keep out of reach of children. Avoid eye contact. Wear rubber gloves. Use in ventilated area. Can be fatal if swallowed. Do not use on wood, vinyls or plastics.

Our feedback on this product has been completely positive. Applying the solution to my bathroom ceramic tile took only minutes. Since the product is clear and invisible after application, you don't have to worry about applying it "perfectly." I applied it over 3 years ago. It is great to get out of the shower or tub and not worry about hydroplaning with my wet feet.

Thank you for your question.
Sincerely, Barbara

Question about the product Product Code:WaterCop 3/4 Inch Electric Ball Valve, 3 Flood Sensors WVA-075.

Q: "Can more than one remote switch be installed to turn each Water Cop valve on and off. If there is a power failure does it remain in the on position if that is how it was set or is it able to shut off in the event of power failure? " Thanks. Don Smith

Answer: With a splitter, each WaterCop can be controlled with up to two remote wall switches. If the power fails, the WaterCop remains in the operating position at the time the power failed.

Your options are to remove the actuator and use a wrench to turn the valve on or off.

Or you can install a UPS battery back-up unit. The manufacturer recommends the APC Model BE500R or its equivalent. That unit provides between 50 and 72 hours of power to the WaterCop with sufficient power to turn the valve once at the completion of your test.

If you plan to use a back-up power supply, use only batteries in the moisture sensor units (Water Hounds) as the sensors send a radio signal to the WaterCop actuator. Batteries typically last at least one year.

The manufacturer recommends that the Water Cop be activated at least once per month, i.e. press the red button to turn off the water and the green button to turn the water back on. That way you are sure the valve moves easily when you need it to open or close.

Thank you for your question. I've had a WaterCop for over 7 years. Other than turning off and on the water for the plumber when he installed new faucets (and a shut off for my bathtub), I've never needed its protection, only its convenience! I have sensors under my water dispensing/ice making fridge, my dishwasher and sink and next to the washer, hot water heater, main sewer drain, water softener and A/C drain. I sleep quite well every night.

Sincerely, Barbara