*****************************
COMMENT ON TESTING AND REPLACING BATTERIES FROM APRIL 23, 2015 ARTICLE
******************************
Ken,
   Regarding battery testing and replacement, I suggest referring to the manufacturer’s recommendation on replacing the batteries.  Today’s most common wireless transmitter, for example, lasts 3 years. Most modern alarm panels poll wireless sensors at least daily, to make sure the battery is powerful enough to send an acceptable signal strength and to ensure a sensor has not been removed. 
   The alarm panel also load tests itself daily for control panel battery condition and for A.C. power.  A good 12 volt control panel battery should last 3 years, but not all batteries are equal.  A couple of years ago we bought several cases of batteries that lasted only 18 months.  I had to pay techs to go out and change all those batteries out because we warranty them for 3 years.  Extended power outages void the warranty, as they can kill even the best battery, but customers always understand and seem to appreciate that we are on top of this.
   In any event, it is the client’s responsibility to test the system regularly and request service as needed.  We encourage annual testing, but strongly suggest testing and service by a qualified technician at least every 3 years, including changing all batteries at that time.
Ray Yauchler  
****************************
COMMENT ON MFG RECALL AND CHANGING BATTERIES FROM APRIL 23, 2015 ARTICLE
**************************
Ken
    You struck my need to bloviate on two counts today.
    First was the rights on manufacturing recall.
    20 years ago a manufacturer had a major recall on a high end panel. The terms were given that the dealer would receive an advanced replacement panel on request, and after install on receipt of the recalled panel the dealer was sent a check for $50.00 each.  Not a lot of money but in 1993 dollars it was a break even for time invested....Any token is a start. (Product credits etc.)
     Secondly on the battery changing.
     Even though the lithium batteries are supposed to last 3 years or better, I find that a program of annual replacement works well when merged with NFPA 72 chapter 11 RES FIRE which used to state that a residential alarm will be inspected by a competent trained person at least once every three years.  Thereby leaving the homeowner to do an annual look see. We know that never happened. Hence the new requirement is for a competent professional to inspect residential fire systems annually.  We inspect and do batteries at the same time (Batteries are included in the annual inspection).
    From around the corner, (where the sun does shine)
Joel Kent
FBN Security Co LLC
*******************************