We all know that the gel batteries in an alarm panel should be replaced at regular intervals but what about the battery packs in SABs?

I know that these are usually a different battery technology (usually NiCAD or NiMH) as opposed to the lead acid types used for panel backup and are usually soldered in but they must have a servicable life?

Does anybody routinely replace the module/entire bell box after a certain number of years or are they just left to die?

 

 

No routine replacement but tested every service visit.

Same here. No routine replacement but tested on a site Maintence visit.

How long would you guys say a bell should last/be replaced , I'd say around 10 years

In the real world I'd expect 99% of them to be left to die.

Thanks for the replies, Guys.

 

Tested as in remove the hold-off voltage & let it sound for the full 15min? Or just quickly remove hold-off & let it sound for a few seconds?

 

Or just Bell test from the panel (which doesn't actually use the SAB battery....)

The only way to test properly is drop the power and see if it rings for the full time.

I remember a spate of oddy 3e with faulty backup batterys.

We test every maintenence dont always let it go full duration tho, depends on age/ location ect

There are test units to test the nicads like the sla's.

Same ones for em iirc, can't say I know anyone who has one.

No nor me