Re: How to replace battery

[Julian <julian@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

On Sun, 31 Dec 2006 11:47:28 -0500, "Robert L Bass"
<robertbass1@xxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:

>> Probably because the alarm company
>> usually services the system...
>
>Battery replacement doesn't require any special skill.  There's no reason why the homeowner shouldn't do it himself.

Oh REALLY? Ever change a battery on an old DSC Classic Panel? Ever
checking the charging voltage? Pretty obvious you haven't.

DSC's charging circuit can be varied in voltage from approximately
12.5 to 14+ volts. Should be at 13.8, but over time it will wander.
I've seen over 14 volts and as low as 13. If the voltage is high, the
battery life will be less, significantly less. If it's low, then it's
not getting a proper charge and will last a shorter time when power
goes out.

How's that for reason #1?

Reason #2?

MOST clients are idiots and will not be able to do it or will do
something wrong.

>
>> The batteries are not easily available...
>
>I disagree.  Hundreds of online stores carry them.  Also, numerous retail outlets even sell them.
>
>> Besides alarm systems should be serviced
>> every year are so by an alarm tech and
>> one of those service calls would also include
>> changing the battery (which only last 3-5
>> years).
>
>Smoke detectors need cleaning at least annually.  Motion detectors are normally left alone unless they cause a problem.  As state,
>batteries usually need replacement every 3-5 years.  Magnetic contacts protecting doors and windows are normally service-free unless
>there's a lightning hit.
>
>Smokes are easy to clean.  Homeowners can clean one in a few minutes.

Sure, I LOVE to have homeowners clean their own smoke detectors! I
guarantee they didn't listen to the instructions and will BLOW air
into the detector instead of SUCKING THE AIR (AND DEBRIS/DUST) OUT.

I sell more smoke detectors that way....... AND I CHARGE A FRIGGIN'
SERVICE CALL TOO!

And I'm seriously considering and IDIOT charge, although I will have
to remame it.

Perhaps I'll call it the bASS charge!

LOL!!!!






>> And DON'T just throw the old battery
>> in the garbage, it contains lead -
>> please dispose of it properly.
>
>Good advice.  In most commun ities you simply notify the trash collection company that you have a battery for disposal.  They'll
>pick it up on the assigned day for "haz mat" removal.
>
>> DO clip off the terminals of the old battery
>> to prevent shorting and starting a fire.
>
>Yep.  It's also a good idea to wrap a couple of turns of electrical tape after clipping the terminals.



'Cause you just know a dead battery without terminals starts an
electrical fire every 16 seconds in the US.......




>> Oh yeah...write the DATE you changed
>> the battery on the battery with a Sharpie
>> and plan on replacing it again in 3-4 years.
>
>Also excellent advice.




Julian