How Long Do SimpliSafe Camera Batteries Last?

Kenneth Wilson

One of the most popular home security systems today is SimpliSafe. So if you're browsing different products to secure your home – you probably came across this smart home security tool.

But the thing with owning home security devices is that you'll need to ensure it is 24/7 powered. Most devices cannot protect your home adequately if there is no power supply. Fortunately, SimpliSafe made it easy for homeowners to switch between a battery-powered operation and a hardwired power supply.

What better way to keep your home protected around the clock, right? Let's get down to business as we look closely at SimpliSafe devices and their battery life.

What is SimpliSafe Security System?


SimpliSafe has one goal, and that is to always to keep your home protected. There are two models of their security system today: the original Simplisafe and modern Simplisafe devices with up-to-date and enhanced security features. (Related: SimpliSafe vs. Ring: Which Home Security System is Best Suited for Your Needs?)

Additionally, Simplisafe offers home security systems at an affordable price. That means there are no contracts and hidden installation fees. Besides the SimpliSafe base station and SimpliCam, other devices will need regular battery replacement. That leads us to the question, how long do SimpliSafe outdoor camera batteries last?

How Long Do SimpliSafe Batteries Last?


According to SimpliSafe, the SimpliSafe camera battery life can run up to 24 hours. But, the battery life will depend on the system version and component type. Refer to the table below for a quick rundown.

Latest SimpliSafe Devices:

Component

Battery/Batteries Used

Average Battery Life Expectancy

Base Station

4 NiMH rechargeable AA 1.2V*

N/A

Entry Sensor

1 CR-2032 Lithium 3V

5-10 years

Motion Sensor

1 CR-2032 Lithium 3V

3-5 years

Glassbreak Sensor

1 CR-2032 Lithium 3V

3-5 years

Smoke Detector

1 CR-123A Lithium 3V

3-5 years

Keypad

4 AA Alkaline

8-12 months

Auxiliary Siren

4 AA Alkaline

3-5 years

Key Fob

1 CR-2032 Lithium 3V

5-10 years

Panic Button

1 CR-2032 Lithium 3V

5-10 years

Temperature/Freeze Sensor

1 CR-2032 Lithium 3V

3-5 years

Water Sensor

1 CR-2032 Lithium 3V

5-10 years

Carbon Monoxide Detector

3 Energizer AA "Ultimate Lithium" 1.5V

3-5 years

Remember that the SimpliSafe outdoor camera battery life will depend on how frequently you use the device and your property's location. If you notice any problems with your current batteries, we recommend contacting SimpliSafe's customer service as soon as possible to request new ones.

Another essential thing to consider is that the Gen 3 SimpliSafe Key Fobs' batteries cannot be changed. You will need to contact their customer service if you need to change the battery. Avoid using non-rechargeable batteries to swap out the ones in the Base Station, as the batteries could leak. Those who need new batteries for their carbon monoxide detector can be sent new ones without cost. Just contact SimpliSafe's customer service team.

Original SimpliSafe Devices:

Component

Battery/Batteries Used

Average Battery Life Expectancy

Base Station

4 NiMH rechargeable AA 1.2V

N/A

Entry Sensor

1 CR-123A Lithium 3V

3-5 years

Motion Sensor

1 CR-123A Lithium 3V

3-5 years

Glassbreak Sensor

1 CR-123A Lithium 3V

3-5 years

Smoke Detector

1 CR-123A Lithium 3V

3-5 years

Keypad

4 AA Alkaline

8-12 months

Auxiliary Siren

4 AA Alkaline

8-12 months

Keychain Remote

1 CR-1632 Lithium 3V

3-5 years

Panic Button

1 CR-2032 Lithium 3V

3-5 years

Temperature/Freeze Sensor

1 CR-2450 Lithium

3-5 years

Water Sensor

1 CR-2450 Lithium

3-5 years

Carbon Monoxide Detector

3 Energizer AA "Ultimate Lithium" 1.5V

3-5 years

Most operating SimpliSafe systems have rechargeable batteries lasting up to 24 hours. Some devices can be recharged often, so you can use these for a lengthy period (for long years). This helps you save on the additional costs of regular battery replacement.

Here's a quick summary of the average SimpliSafe outdoor camera battery life for your convenience.

  • The lifespan of a Panic Button is between three and five years.
  • The temperature sensor's battery life is between three and five years.
  • The battery life for the Carbon Monoxide Sensor is also the same (3 to 5 years).
  • You get a reasonably long battery life from the Entry Sensor of up to 10 years.
  • Battery life for a door lock is about 8 to 12 months, which is relatively short. The Auxiliary Siren, which has a battery life of 8 to 12 months, operates similarly.
  • Battery life for the Key Fob, Smoke Detector, Glass Break Sensor, and Motion Sensor is 3 to 5 years.
  • The battery life can change depending on where you are and how long you use your device.
  • Battery life for a water sensor is three to five years.

When and How to Change Simplisafe Batteries?


Like other battery-powered home security cameras, you will need to swap the battery in your Simplisafe devices. How will you know when it needs changing? Keep an eye out for an error warning in the keypad. To reiterate, the Simplicam doesn't need a battery; it can only be used with a power source.

Meanwhile, the Base station also requires a rechargeable battery, so you do not need to replace it. Here's how you can change the batteries in your various Simplisafe devices:

  • Entry Sensor: Slide the sensor up from its case to remove it, then replace the battery with a lithium-ion one (CR 2032). Then, reinstall the gadget in its bracket.
  • Motion Sensor: You don't have to remove the entire sensor from its mounting to change your Motion Sensor's battery. Open the sensor by sliding it up, insert the lithium battery, and then close it.
  • Glass Break Sensor: Slide the sensor up and out of the case to remove the battery, then replace it with a lithium battery (CR -123A, 3V).
  • Smoke Detector: To detach the smoke detector from the wall face bracket, turn it counterclockwise. The battery case should be removed. Refresh the battery (CR- 123A Lithium 3V).
  • Keypad: Open the bracket to change the 4 AA batteries in your keypad. Replace the item and then put it back.
  • Extra Siren: Slide the Siren up and remove it from the bracket. The battery hatch's four screws can be removed using a screwdriver. Replace the 4 AA batteries by dragging the battery cover.
  • Panic Button: By removing your gadget from its cover and replacing it with a similar new battery, you can change the battery in your panic button.
  • Temperature/Freeze Sensor: Use the same steps listed below, but swap out the 3 V CR- 2032 lithium battery for a new one.
  • Water Sensor: Rotate the upper portion of your water sensor counterclockwise. Use a CR- 2032 lithium 3-volt battery to replace the current one.
  • Key Fob: The Key Fob's battery cannot be changed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)


How can I change SimpliSafe batteries?

Most of the sensors offered by SimpliSafe feature slide-away backs that are simple to remove, making it easy to change the battery. You don't have to take the central unit out of any wall mounts to remove it. Additionally, you may turn the smoke detector's circular base to replace the battery. Here, the water sensor and siren stand out. Unfortunately, to detach them from their base and access the battery, screws must be removed.

How often should I change SimpliSafe batteries?

Every product from SimpliSafe has its battery life expectancy. All burglary sensors, except the entry sensor, have three to five years. Entry sensors can last up to ten years. Hazard sensors can also last the same three-to-five-year lifespan. The ones with the shortest expectancy are the siren, door lock, and keypad, which only last for a year. Each accessory's battery life mainly depends on how it is used. The fact that the lifetimes differ by two years shouldn't stop you from using any sensor, though.

What kind of batteries does SimpliSafe use?

Either CR (watch batteries) or AA batteries can power the entire line of SimpliSafe accessories. You must figure out which specific version of each your particular device requires. For instance, AA batteries are required for the keypad, siren, door lock, and CO detector. The remaining sensors need a CR battery.

What happens when a SimpliSafe battery runs out of power?

You need to replace the batteries in your SimpliSafe accessories when they run out. The Base Station is the sole exception since it uses rechargeable AA batteries that can be removed, recharged, and then reinserted. Regarding the use of rechargeable batteries in any other accessory, SimpliSafe still doesn't have any statement. You may purchase the batteries directly from SimpliSafe and buy them from a third party.

Kenneth Wilson
October 11, 2022
Contractor Tips, Interior

Kenneth Wilson

Retired contractor. Currently residing in Southwest Florida. Now in semi-retirement, I write and manage this blog focused on helping home owners make savvy decisions when it comes to finding contractors and getting their projects done. I also operate remodeling design service for homeowners.

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