their FAQ says this about using the alarm with the screen off
If you wish to lock your screen or use CARROT Alarm in the background, ensure your device is not on Silent or Do Not Disturb so that you’ll be able to hear your alarm.)
(Bug Alert! We have identified two bugs in Apple's operating system that can interfere with the alarm. Luckily, they're easy to fix. Just open your Settings app, then go to Notification Center, and switch any app that says "alerts" to "banners." Additionally, make sure CARROT Alarm's sounds are set to on. Sorry for the inconvenience!)
I went into the notifications and switched all apps that were alarm to banner. When the screen's off and my alarm goes off, I don't hear the alarm. If I turn the screen on I see text after text notification from the app talking crap to me. I'm guessing it's suppose to be playing these insults thru the speaker. My phone isn't in DND or silent mode. I emailed the developers 6 days ago but haven't heard back from them yet. I don't really want to leave my phone plugged in over night just to use this app. Anyone on 8.1.2 use it and can comment on the screen off? Or if you have it and can try and see what happens.
If you wish to lock your screen or use CARROT Alarm in the background, ensure your device is not on Silent or Do Not Disturb so that you’ll be able to hear your alarm.)
(Bug Alert! We have identified two bugs in Apple's operating system that can interfere with the alarm. Luckily, they're easy to fix. Just open your Settings app, then go to Notification Center, and switch any app that says "alerts" to "banners." Additionally, make sure CARROT Alarm's sounds are set to on. Sorry for the inconvenience!)
I went into the notifications and switched all apps that were alarm to banner. When the screen's off and my alarm goes off, I don't hear the alarm. If I turn the screen on I see text after text notification from the app talking crap to me. I'm guessing it's suppose to be playing these insults thru the speaker. My phone isn't in DND or silent mode. I emailed the developers 6 days ago but haven't heard back from them yet. I don't really want to leave my phone plugged in over night just to use this app. Anyone on 8.1.2 use it and can comment on the screen off? Or if you have it and can try and see what happens.