It is a wise decision to have a home alarm system put in to protect your home and its contents. The use of home alarm systems makes burglars stay away from their homes since the homeowners and the authorities are notified as soon as an intruder gets into the compound. However, similar to any other electronic gadget, a Home Security System needs periodic maintenance such as battery changes to ensure it is in the best working condition. Delaying to replace home alarm batteries is one way of compromising the functionality of the home alarm system at the right time and leaving your home open for break-ins.
It is important to note that even in the event of a change or total power outage in a house, a wired home alarm system will still function to a very large extent. It mostly draws power from a source outside of itself, but it has some internal power. However, it does need to have another source of power; namely, a backup battery so it can continue its functions in the event of a power outage. Many alarm systems incorporate rechargeable batteries and therefore require a periodic charging routine.
The frequency of battery replacement ranges from once a year to three to five years depending on the type of battery that is used in the security system. Two examples of backup batteries that are used in home alarm systems include the 7Ah and the 33Ah lead acid batteries. The 7Ah batteries are usually expected to last one year while 33 Ah batteries can last up to three to five years before they are replaced. Battery replacement is not a complicated process and thus most homeowners can be able to replace the batteries on their own.
Alarm System Battery Status Your home alarm system should have an integrated mechanism that can alert you when the backup battery is low and needs to be replaced. That being said, it is recommended that you check your battery at least once every six months so that if there are any problems, they can be identified before your home security is compromised. Some signs that indicate that it may be time to replace your alarm battery soon include:
- The alarm system is characterized by beeping sounds that continue even after resetting the system.
- You often receive notification from the alarm system that the battery is running low
- This is evidenced by the fact that the label on the battery indicates that the warranty of the battery has already expired.
- Some signs can be observed by mere eyesight, for instance, corrosion or cracks on the outer part of the battery.
Many home alarm systems come with a test battery function that will help you to know the status of the battery, and whether it needs to be replaced or not. The actual process of replacement will of course differ depending on the type of system that has been installed, but the procedure is pretty much the same.
Materials Needed and Collecting Resources Before you begin, ensure you have gathered all the items you will need to complete the replacement: Before you begin, ensure you have gathered all the items you will need to complete the replacement:
- New replacement rechargeable battery suitable for your alarm system
- Volt meter to measure voltage in the system and a capacity to recharge
- Screwdriver powered by batteries with screws bits to take out battery cover and terminal screws
- Hand tools, such as wrenches, that may be necessary to disconnect wiring
- Baking soda, mild detergent, and scrub for corrosion on battery terminals
The battery of an alarm system is among those aspects that require change from time to time The following are steps to change the battery of the alarm system: Once you have all the necessary tools and replacement battery ready, follow these simple steps:
- Finally, switch off the alarm system The first step is to disarm your home alarm system. This also disables any alarm functions as you handle the replace the battery unit. Contact your alarm manufacturer’s manual if you are not sure how to disable your specific alarm system.
- Open the battery compartment In most home alarm systems, the backup battery is placed in an external compartment. Twist and remove the lid of the compartment. You may have to use drill or other tools if the cover of a specific type and age is fastened with screws.
- Disconnect the old battery To do this, ensure that you unplug the positive and negative battery wires from the battery terminal. It may be necessary to use a wrench or pliers to undo the connection. Make sure that the cut ends of the wires do not touch as this may blow an alarm panel fuse.
- Remove the old battery Once the wires are disconnected, it is also recommended to pull out the old battery from the alarm system. If batteries are large, you may require using hand tools to pull the battery if there is limited room in the compartment.
- Inspect and clean the battery compartment and connections Before putting in the new battery, look into the battery compartment and the terminal connections for signs of corrosion. Remove any rust or other deposits with a wire brush, baking soda, and mild detergent scrub. Then, wash with some clean water afterward. Permit the area to dry thoroughly before continuing with the next process.
- Install new battery Once the wiring area has been cleaned and dried, put the new battery in its rightful place and slide it into the battery slot. Do not fit tightly because this may have the effect of damaging the battery case.
- Reconnect wiring securely Reconnect wiring to fixation of correct battery terminals that have good contact with the wire. As a rule, red wire is connected to the positive terminal while black or blue wire is connected to the negative terminal.
- Check the test voltage level and charging Reset your alarm system and then use your voltmeter to ensure that the voltage corresponds to the recommendations for your security system. Also, ensure that the system is recharging the new battery as required.
- Close the battery compartment When you’ve ensured the battery levels are adequate and the battery is working correctly, shut the battery compartment cover and tighten the screws. You may need to use the drill once more, for this step if housing was previously screwed shut.
- Reset your alarm system The last step is to just disarm the home alarm system so that it can again detect that the batteries have been changed. It is recommended to consult your user manual for instructions on how to reset the system on your given model.
That sums up the basic processes when choosing a replacement for traditional home alarm batteries which is the backup power source! In essence, the replacement process is not very complex, assuming that the correct battery type has been chosen and correct wiring procedures have been observed. Performing timely battery replacement helps to enhance the lifespan of your property alarm system. Used alongside regular testing, it makes sure that your home and family are always at their best protection status.
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