eufy Security Smoke Alarm E10: features, specs and who it suits

The eufy Security Smoke Alarm E10 (model T8910) is a small wireless smoke detector that joins a eufy security system through a HomeBase. It measures 70 mm across, runs on a sealed battery that lasts up to five years, and complies with the UL 217 10th edition standard. It needs a compatible HomeBase to operate, so that's the first thing to check.

Listed standards: UL 217 and CSFM

UL 217 is the US standard that residential smoke alarms are tested against, and the 10th edition is a recent version of it. eufy says the E10 complies with that edition and designed it to detect various types of smoke. The alarm is also listed by the California State Fire Marshal (CSFM).

Standards and listing requirements differ between countries and regions. In Canada, for example, building and fire codes generally refer to the Canadian smoke alarm standard, CAN/ULC-S531, so check which listing your local code calls for.

A 70 mm design

The E10 is 70 mm (2.75 inches) across and about 1.1 inches (28 mm) deep. eufy says that's about one-third the size of traditional models, so it sits discreetly on a ceiling. A small alarm is less noticeable in living rooms and bedrooms, where a bulky one can stand out.

The sealed five-year battery

A sealed lithium battery is built in and lasts up to five years. There are no yearly battery changes, and no middle-of-the-night chirps from a yearly battery running low.

Because the battery is sealed, it isn't swapped out by the owner. The manual explains what to do when the battery reaches the end of its life, and how and how often to test the alarm in the meantime.

Wireless range and the HomeBase

The alarm connects to the HomeBase at open-air distances of up to 656 feet (200 metres). Open-air figures are measured with nothing in the way; walls, floors and large appliances shorten the range in a real home, so place the HomeBase with that in mind.

A HomeBase is required to operate it. eufy lists these models and minimum software versions:

• HomeBase Mini, version 4.0.5.2 or later
• HomeBase 2, version 3.4.1.2 or later (released after 2021)
• HomeBase 3, version 3.7.2.6 or later
• HomeBase Pro, version 4.1.4.3 or later

eufy advises updating the HomeBase to the latest version.

Placement and local codes

How many smoke alarms a home needs, and where they go, is set by local building and fire codes and by the manufacturer's instructions. Some codes require particular types in certain situations, such as hardwired or interconnected alarms in new construction or major renovations. Follow your local code and the manual for placement, testing and replacement, especially if the E10 will replace or sit alongside existing alarms.

Who it suits

It suits homes that already run a compatible eufy HomeBase and want small, battery-powered smoke alarms that join the same system, in living rooms, bedrooms and other rooms.

What to check before you buy

• Your HomeBase: confirm you have a HomeBase Mini, 2, 3 or Pro on the listed software version or later.
• Local codes: check which standard, type and placement your local code requires.
• Alerts: check in eufy's documentation how the alarm notifies you through the HomeBase and app, and whether alarms link to sound together.
• Range: check the distance and walls between each alarm and the HomeBase.
• Battery life: plan for the sealed battery's life of up to five years, as the manual describes.

The short version

• A compact wireless smoke alarm, 70 mm (2.75 in) across, model T8910.
• Complies with UL 217, 10th edition, and is listed by the California State Fire Marshal.
• Sealed lithium battery that lasts up to five years: no yearly battery changes.
• Connects to a eufy HomeBase at open-air distances of up to 656 ft (200 m).
• Requires a HomeBase Mini, 2, 3 or Pro, updated to the latest version.

Bloiq is reader-supported. Some links may earn us a commission; it never affects what we write. How we make money.