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Minut A1 - Smoke & CO Alarm

What Minut A1 is, how it works, battery info, installation, and FAQs.

Written by Emilie Pain

Minut A1 is Minut's smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarm, built for short-term rentals. It combines a certified, always-on physical alarm with connected features - remote monitoring, automated self-testing, and real-time alerts- when paired with the Minut app.

The full installation manual and technical specifications are available at https://www.minut.com/setup/a1-s.

Availability: Minut A1 is currently available in the US only for early-access customers.


How A1 works

Always on; works with or without Wi-Fi or a Minut plan:

  • Detects smoke and CO using the built-in alarm module, and sounds a loud local siren immediately on detection. This cannot be disabled from the app.

  • Detects physical tampering (e.g. being removed from its mount) and beeps a warning.

  • The alarm activates automatically the first time it's attached to its mounting bracket. It cannot be manually turned off.

Connected features - require Wi-Fi and an active Minut plan:

  • Interconnection: wirelessly link up to 10 A1 alarms per unit (within 50 ft / 15 m of each other). If one detects smoke or CO, all linked alarms sound together. A1 only interconnects with other A1 units.

  • Real-time alerts: push/email notifications if smoke, CO, or tampering is detected.

  • Automated self-testing: schedule tests (e.g. weekly, monthly, or between bookings) from Settings → "Smoke & CO alarm" in the app. Results are logged in the event log for compliance/record-keeping.

  • Indoor climate monitoring: temperature, humidity, and mold risk. Readings update periodically rather than in real time.

What A1 doesn't do

A1 is a dedicated safety alarm, not a replacement for the M3 sensor. It does not include noise monitoring, cigarette/recreational smoke detection, crowd/occupancy detection, or an outdoor mode. Customers using both get full coverage: M3 for noise, occupancy, and climate; A1 for certified fire/CO safety.

Batteries

Core alarm battery

A sealed, non-replaceable battery rated for 10 years, powering the core smoke/CO alarm function.

Connectivity battery

A separate, replaceable CR123A or DL123A battery, powering Wi-Fi, the app connection, and interconnection between alarms. The app will notify you (and the alarm will chirp locally) when it needs replacing.

Do I need a Minut plan?

A1 can be added to any existing Minut rental unit at no extra subscription cost.

For a property not yet on Minut, a plan is required to unlock the connected features. Without a plan or network connection, A1 still detects smoke and CO and sounds its local siren.


Installing the A1 alarm

  1. Download the Minut app (iOS/Android) and log in, or create an account if you're new to Minut.

  2. Mount the bracket: secure the plastic mounting bracket to the ceiling using a 3/16 in (5 mm) drill bit. Keep the alarm itself away from the area while drilling to protect it from dust.

  3. Install the battery that came with the alarm - this powers Wi-Fi/connectivity only and doesn't affect the core alarm.

  4. Attach the alarm: twist it onto the mounting plate clockwise until it clicks. It turns on automatically. Give it a tug to confirm it's securely attached.

  5. Finish setup in the app while staying in the same room, then press the test button - a successful install sounds a loud siren.

Where to install:

Indoor only. Do not install in bathrooms, porches, kitchens, or any area exposed to condensation, water, steam, or direct sunlight.

  • Never install outdoors.

  • Keep at least 5 ft (1.5 m) from any cooking appliance.

  • Avoid moisture, direct sunlight, and high heat.

  • Center of the ceiling is best for reaction time; no closer than 20 in (50 cm) to a corner or wall.

  • Smoke/CO alarm placement rules vary by state - check local requirements. General guidance: one alarm per floor and one per sleeping area, at minimum.


FAQs

Do I need Bluetooth to install it?

Yes - turn on Bluetooth on your phone; the app guides you through the rest.

How do I turn it on/off?

It activates automatically when first mounted (this is also when the 10-year battery starts). It cannot be turned off.

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