BRK / First Alert 7010BA: lights, beeps & chirps explained

Hardwired photoelectric smoke alarm with 9V backup (also 7010B). Here is what every light and sound on the BRK / First Alert 7010BA means, how to test and hush it, and when it needs replacing. It's an older model I still find on ceilings across the Lower Mainland.

An older model. Replacement: BRK SM6W10A (photoelectric, sealed 10-year backup, no battery changes).

What the lights mean

LightMeaning
Green steady, red flash about once a minuteNormal.
Red flash every 10 sSilence mode.

What the beeps and chirps mean

SoundMeaning
3 beeps, pause, repeatSMOKE. Get everyone out and call 911.
Chirp about once a minuteLow battery. Replace the 9V.

Want to hear them? The free app's sound library plays each pattern.

How to

Test it

Press and hold Test/Silence until it sounds.

Battery

9V alkaline.

End of life

No end-of-life warning: replace it 10 years after the date on the back.

How long does it last?

Replace it 10 years after the date printed on the back. The test button can still work after the sensor has worn out, so the date is what counts. Sometimes the date is on the side, but the back is the best place to look. Need one swapped? See smoke alarm replacement and repair.

What replaces it

Today's replacement is the BRK / First Alert SM6W10A ($64.99 installed, plus the $99.99 service fee).

Other alarm guides

BRK / First Alert SC6W10A · BRK / First Alert SM6W10A · BRK / First Alert 9120BA · BRK / First Alert 9120LBL · BRK / First Alert SC9120BA · BRK / First Alert SC9120LBL · BRK / First Alert SC7010BA

All alarm guides · Chirp codes: Kidde vs First Alert

Questions

Why is my BRK / First Alert 7010BA chirping?
Chirp about once a minute: Low battery. Replace the 9V.
What does the green steady, red flash about once a minute light mean on the BRK / First Alert 7010BA?
Normal.
How long does the BRK / First Alert 7010BA last?
Replace it 10 years after the date of manufacture printed on the back.
What replaces the BRK / First Alert 7010BA?
The BRK / First Alert SM6W10A. 120V photoelectric smoke alarm, sealed 10-year lithium backup.

Still Beeping? I'll Sort It

Flat $99.99 service fee plus the alarm, from $64.99 installed. Evenings and weekends at no extra charge. Book online or call or text 604-401-3347.

Flat-fee pricing · No call-out charge · Evenings & weekends included
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