Batteries for alarms, emergency lights and devices

Alarm panels, emergency lights, gate openers, scales and portable medical equipment all run on small batteries that nobody notices until they fail. This section brings together 6 V and 12 V VRLA AGM blocks of a few amp-hours as well as Cyclon 2 V cells and 4 V and 6 V monoblocs.

Find the replacement by voltage, capacity, dimensions and connector type.

The formats you will meet most often

• 12 V from 1.2 to 18 Ah: intruder and fire alarm panels, gates, electric fences and small UPS units.
• 6 V from 1 to 12 Ah: emergency luminaires, weighing scales, ride-on toys and rechargeable torches.
• 2, 4 and 6 V Cyclon: test and measurement gear, instrumentation and anywhere a tough, compact cell is needed.

Before ordering, measure the space available and check the connector: the narrow F1 faston (4.8 mm) and the wide F2 (6.3 mm) are not interchangeable without changing the leads.

What sets Cyclon cells apart

Cyclon cells use spirally wound lead plates inside a sealed cylindrical can. That build handles high discharge currents for its size, works across a wide temperature range and can be mounted in any orientation. Cells are combined in series to reach the voltage the equipment needs.

Charging and replacement

Most of these devices charge at constant voltage and then hold the battery on float. If an alarm panel reports "low battery" shortly after a power cut, the battery has lost capacity even though it reads a normal voltage off-load: only a test under load reveals its real condition. One of our battery testers will tell you.

For larger equipment, see stationary batteries or the KRONOBAT range.

Small battery FAQ

Can I fit a higher-Ah battery in my alarm?

Yes, as long as the voltage matches and it fits the housing. You gain standby time; the panel will take a little longer to recharge it.

Can a lead battery replace a NiMH pack?

No. Cell voltages and charging methods differ, and the device's charger is not designed for it.

How often should emergency light batteries be replaced?

That depends on use and on how hot the ceiling void gets. The practical approach is to test them periodically and replace them when they no longer meet the required duration.