SimpliSafe is a popular do-it-yourself home security system among new smart homeowners. One of the factors for SimpliSafe’s success has to do with one simple yet crucial component: batteries.
Well, the entire suite of SimpliSafe products uses either AA batteries or CR (watch batteries).
Let’s take a look at SimpliSafe security accessories and what you need to know about their respective batteries.
Key Points
- SimpliSafe uses replaceable AA or CR batteries on most of their devices.
- Usually, the type of battery you need depends on your specific SimpliSafe device version.
- The Base Station, on the other hand, relies on rechargeable batteries.
- Also, other devices like the Smart Alarm Indoor Camera and SimpliCam Indoor Camera don’t rely on replaceable batteries but plug directly into a power supply.
What Batteries Does SimpliSafe Use
While features and size may vary across different SimpliSafe home security versions and packages, one thing remains consistent: the type of battery they use. These devices primarily use a combination of lithium-based, alkaline, and rechargeable batteries—it could be either AA batteries or CR batteries.
Generally, nearly all devices within the SimpliSafe security ecosystem (both new and old generations) are wireless and function without the need for landlines—they only need compatible batteries. Therefore, you will have to check which specific battery version your particular device requires.
For instance, the CO detector, door lock, siren, and keypad all require AA batteries. The rest of the sensors use a CR battery.
It’s worth mentioning that among SimpliSafe products, there are only two devices — the Smart Alarm Indoor Camera and SimpliCam Indoor Camera — that do not rely on replaceable batteries. You must hardwire them to a power outlet to work.
Here is a quick look at the battery types compatible with various SimpliSafe products:
| Product | Battery Type |
|---|---|
| Smoke Detector | CR-123A Lithium 3V (1) |
| Keypad | AA Alkaline (4) |
| Entry Sensor | CR-2032 3V Lithium (1) |
| Motion Sensor | CR-123A 3V Lithium (1) |
| Key Fob | CR-2032 3V Lithium (1) |
| Battery Type | CR-123A 3V Lithium (1) |
| Extra Siren | AA Alkaline (4) |
| Door Lock | AA Alkaline (4) |
| Carbon Monoxide Sensor | 1.5V AA Energizer Ultimate Lithium (3) |
| Water Sensor | CR-2032 3V Lithium (1) |
| Temperature Sensor | CR-2032 3V Lithium (1) |
| Panic Button | CR-2032 3V Lithium (1) |
| Base Station | Rechargeable NiMH 1.2V AA (4) |
How Long Do SimpliSafe Batteries Last?
When it comes to battery life, SimpliSafe assures the users of its longevity. The company claims the longest lifespan of certain SimpliSafe devices can go to over 10 years. It is also true that while your system is running, you get approximately 24 hours of operation time with the SimpliSafe rechargeable battery.
Since it is rechargeable, it means the battery could work for several years before ever needing replacement, particularly because it is only used when there’s power failure. Mostly during power outages, the device switches between a direct power supply and a battery.
However, while all SimpliSafe devices boast impressive battery life, there can be a limit for certain devices. Here's a breakdown of the expected battery life for each SimpliSafe device:
| Product | Battery Lifespan |
|---|---|
| Smoke Detector | 3 to 5 years |
| Keypad | 8 to 12 months |
| Entry Sensor | Up to 10 years |
| Motion Sensor | 3 to 5 years |
| Key Fob | 3 to 5 years |
| Glass Break Sensor | 3 to 5 years |
| Extra Siren | 8 to 12 months |
| Door Lock | 8 to 12 months |
| Carbon Monoxide Sensor | 3 to 5 years |
| Temperature Sensor | 3 to 5 years |
| Water Sensor | 3 to 5 years |
| Panic Button | 3 to 5 years |
| Base Station | N/A |
There are several factors affecting the battery life of your SimpliSafe device. They include:
- Incompatible Batteries: Ensure you use compatible batteries for your SimpliSafe devices to avoid fast power drainage.
- Extreme Temperatures: Batteries have to remain at optimal operating temperatures. Extreme coldness or heat could shorten battery life.
- Weak Signal: A weak Wi-Fi signal on your devices affects battery performance.
- Slow Internet: Slow Internet speeds result in higher battery consumption.
- Frequency of Use: The battery's life depends on how often you use your device. It is rather obvious that when you use the device more, it becomes less efficient over time.
What Happens When a SimpliSafe Battery Dies?
When the battery dies in any of your SimpliSafe accessories, all you have to do is replace it; otherwise, it’ll not send any signal at all.
But remember, SimpliSafe does not use rechargeable batteries in other devices except the Base Station. This device operates on 4 NiMH (Nickel Metal Hydride) batteries that charge constantly when connected to power.
In the unlikely occurrence of battery failure caused by a power outage, you must remove the batteries, completely recharge them, and subsequently reinsert them into the Base Station once again.
Replacement batteries from SimpliSafe are always available for purchase, though you may also get them from a third party.
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How to Replace SimpliSafe Batteries
Similar to other battery-powered devices, SimpliSafe products need to have their batteries replaced periodically. This is, of course, with the exception of the Base Station (which uses rechargeable batteries) and Smart Alarm Indoor Camera or the SimpliCam Indoor Camera (which requires you to hardwire them to a power outlet).
Luckily, replacing the batteries on your SimpliSafe devices is as simple as popping in the batteries on your TV controller. But if you ever need to replace your batteries, note that the process may vary slightly depending on what device you have.
Here are the instructions on how you can replace the batteries in various SimpliSafe devices:
- Smoke Detector: First unmount the Smoke Detector from its wall face bracket by turning it counterclockwise. Once detached, pull out the hatch above the battery compartment to expose the lithium battery. Replace and restore the device.
- Keypad: First, remove the Keypad from its mounting bracket by pushing it upward After that, slide the battery cover at the back of the device, then swap out the four AA batteries. When you’re done replacing the battery, put back the device.
- Entry Sensor: Replacing this battery is also easy. Go on and slide this device off its mounting bracket, change the lithium battery and then return the sensor to its original slot.
- Motion Sensor: It’s a good thing that there is no need to pry off your entire Motion Sensor from the wall for battery replacement. Just lift this device off its mounting bracket and replace its lithium battery, then return the sensor back.
- Key Fob: Unlike other previous SimpliSafe devices, the Key Fob for their new line does not have a user-replaceable battery. In case your Key Fob’s battery has stopped working, you must get in touch with customer support to get a replacement unit.
- Glass Break Sensor: Replacing the battery on your Glass Break Sensor will require you to slide the device off its mounting bracket. After exposing the batteries, replace and then return the sensor to its place.
- Extra Siren: Move the siren upwards to take it out from its bracket. Get a Phillips-head screwdriver, and use it to loosen those four screws securing the battery cover. After loosening these screws, remove and replace the four AA batteries before returning the battery cover to its place.
- Door Lock: Start by pulling down and sliding the battery cover off the Door Lock to expose the battery. Replace the battery and put the battery cover back on. Ensure it clicks into place.
- Carbon Monoxide Sensor: Place the CO Detector on your palm so that the text “DO NOT PAINT” faces you. The battery cover is the part written “CARBON MONOXIDE ALARM.” Press that oval-like knob located directly beneath the “DO NOT PAINT” writing using your finger, and then remove the three AA batteries. Replace and return the cover. (SimpliSafe offers free replacement batteries for the CO detector)
- Temperature Sensor: Slip the device up and off its bracket to expose its battery. Replace that battery with the same CR2032 lithium battery and return your sensor to its mounting spot.
- Water Sensor: Hold the upper part of the sensor and turn the base of your Water Sensor counterclockwise to reveal a lithium battery. Switch it out as required.
- Panic Button: You can change your Panic Button battery by just sliding the device from its mounting bracket. Once out, change the lithium battery with a similar new battery and slide the Panic Button back in place.
- Base Station: First, you should disarm and power down the unit before using a Phillips-head screwdriver to loosen the four security screws that secure the battery cover of the Base Station. You should then take off the cover, replace the batteries with new NiMH rechargeable batteries, and return the battery cover. (Never use a non-rechargeable battery to replace the Base Station's battery; this could corrode the battery, thus damaging the cells)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does SimpliSafe Use Batteries?
Also, SimpliSafe does not use rechargeable batteries in other devices except the Base Station. This device operates on 4 NiMH (Nickel Metal Hydride) batteries that charge constantly when connected to power.
What Type of Batteries Do SimpliSafe Sensors Use?
Can You Use Regular Batteries in the SimpliSafe Base Station?
The batteries recommended for the Base Station are NiMH (Nickel Metal Hydride) batteries. But most likely, you won't need to change them because they are rechargeable and have a longer lifespan.
How Long Does It Take for a SimpliSafe Outdoor Camera Battery to Charge?
During the charging process, the camera's front panel will display a flashing white light. Once the LED indicator transitions to a steady white radiance, it indicates that the battery has reached its maximum capacity.
Bottom Line
Depending on the SimpliSafe home security model and set you have, AA or CR batteries are usually what you need to think about. Compared to other home security systems, SimpliSafe provides batteries that can even last for as long as 10 years. Also, replacing SimpliSafe batteries is pretty simple and requires no special installation skills.
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