The Kidde 438D-8N5-R is an 8-inch vibrating fire alarm bell built for commercial fire alarm systems where loud, reliable notification matters. Rated at 86 dB at 10 feet, the alloy steel gong cuts through ambient noise in commercial hallways, mechanical rooms, and industrial spaces without doubling up on signaling devices.
Built for the commercial installer
Diode polarized for supervised NAC circuit compatibility, the 438D-8N5-R runs on 120 VAC and draws just 0.034 amps. The underdome mechanism ships with a mounting plate that fits any standard single-gang opening, 3-1/2" or 4" octagon box, or 4" square box. For outdoor or weather-exposed applications, pair it with the Kidde Cat. No. 449 weatherproof surface mount back box (gray, supplied with gasket, sold separately).
FM Approved, UL listed (S218, S2202), and MEA listed (7136-1657:0150). Red finish for high-visibility fire alarm compliance.
Key features
- 86 dB at 10 ft output from the 8" alloy steel gong - covers commercial spaces without doubling up on devices
- 120 VAC, 0.034A draw - minimal circuit load, no additional power supply needed
- Diode polarized for compatibility with supervised fire alarm circuits
- Mounts on standard boxes - single-gang opening, 3-1/2" or 4" octagon, 4" sq. box, or Cat. No. 449 weatherproof box
- Wall or ceiling mount orientation for flexible placement
- FM Approved, UL listed - code-ready out of the box
Mounting options
The included mounting plate fits directly on surface or any standard single-gang opening. Compatible with 3-1/2" and 4" octagon boxes, 4" square boxes, and the Kidde Cat. No. 449 weatherproof surface mount wall box for exterior installations.
Does this bell work on a 24 VDC NAC circuit?
What weatherproof back box fits this bell?
Is this bell FM Approved?
What electrical boxes does this mount to?
How does the 8" bell compare to the 6" and 10" models?
Spec Sheet