The Kidde KF10 is a mains powered smoke alarm with a 9V back-up battery with the capability of interlinking with other Firex KF series alarms via hardwire. The ionisation-based sensor in the KF10 has been discontinued by Kidde and the ideal alternative is the KF20. The KF20 uses all the same features of the KF10, however adopts the newer optical sensor technology using the same base plate and connector. This ensures the smooth transition from one alarm to the next without the need for an electrician.
Optical smoke detection is much less susceptible to false alarms from everyday fumes such as cooking vapours and natural humidity. This makes them ideal for installation in hallways, bedrooms, landings and living areas, including those rooms adjacent to kitchens, but not within them.
Please note: The Kidde Firex KF20 is also the replacement for the Kidde 123i / 1239HI, and can be electrically interlinked. However, the new model cannot be used on the old base plates for the 123i / 1239HI as they use different style connector blocks. This means that base plates must be swapped over on those stated models and connectors need to be replaced. Please see our Replacement Compatibility table for a list of alarms that can be replaced with this product.
All of our product reviews are written by real customers that have purchased this product from us and are published without modification.
M P
20th January 2026
S P
17th October 2025
Does as says!
A R
19th January 2025
Excellent service right product.
I S
18th January 2025
I haven't fitted it yet , I think the fitting isnt quite compatible
T S
23rd August 2024
Easy to install, works incredibly well!
| Product Code | KEKF20 |
|---|---|
| Brand | Kidde |
| Back-Up Battery Type | Alkaline |
| British Standard Grade | Grade D2: Mains Powered (replaceable backup) |
| Colour | White |
| Local Legislation | Scottish Legislation (2022) |
| Welsh Legislation (2022) | |
| Approvals & Markings | CE Marked |
| Compliance | BS 5839-6 |
| BS EN 14604: 2005 | |
| Connection | Wired |
| Display | LED Indicators |
| Fixing Options | Screws (included) |
| Installation Position | Ceiling |
| Material | Plastic |
| Maximum Number of Linked Devices | 24 Devices |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C To +40°C |
| Positioning | Bedrooms |
| Hallways | |
| Living Rooms | |
| Power Type | Mains Powered (230V) |
| Product Range | Kidde Firex |
| Recyclable | Yes - Valpak's WEEE Distributor Take-back Scheme |
| Relative Humidity | Up To 93% |
| Sensor Type | Optical |
| Sound Level | 85dB |
| Suitability | Home |
| Warning Type | Audible - Alarm Sounder |
| Warranty | 6 Years |
| Dimensions (Unit) |
|
| Weight | 280g |
| Datasheets |
The table below shows the Kidde smoke alarms which can be replaced by the KF20 optical smoke alarm when they reach the end of their 10 year lifespan.
| Model Number | Description | Installation |
| KF10 | KF10 Ionisation Smoke Alarms with Alkaline Backup | Simple swap – no electrician needed |
| KF10R | KF10R Ionisation Smoke Alarm with Lithium Backup | Requires connector to be swapped by electrician |
| KF1 | KF1 Ionisation Smoke Alarm with Alkaline Backup | Simple swap – no electrician needed |
| KF1R | KF1R Ionisation Smoke Alarm with Lithium Backup | Requires connector to be swapped by electrician |
| 4870 / 4881 | 4870 and 4881 Ionisation Smoke Alarm | Simple swap – no electrician needed |
| 1240C / IAR230C | 1240C and IAR230C Ionisation Smoke Alarm | Simple swap – no electrician needed |
| 123i / 1239HI | 123i and 1239HI Ionisation Smoke Alarm | Requires connector to be swapped by electrician |
| 1275H | 1275H Ionisation Smoke Alarm | Requires connector to be swapped by electrician |
Perfect product, as described - fitted directly into the old ceiling fittings with no hassle.