How to Replace an Emergency Light Battery

After testing your emergency lights regularly, you have discovered that it is time to replace the battery.  What do you do next?  Most emergency light batteries are sealed lead acid batteries or SLA batteries.  The reason the batteries are sealed is so that there can be no spillage that could result in loss of power.  Because these batteries are used in emergency lighting and medical devices, it is imperative that they not lose power by malfunction.  The batteries will generally come with a warranty of 12 months.

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  6 Volt 4.5 Amp Replacement Emergency Light Battery
  $12.99
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  4.8 Volt 700mah Nickel Cadmium Emergency Light Battery Pack
  $12.99
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View our Selection of Emergency Light Batteries

Emergency Light Batteries come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The 6 volt 4.5 amp sealed lead acid battery is one of the most common models found in emergency light fixtures. It is affordably priced and can ship today.

SLA batteries were one of the first kinds of rechargeable batteries.  Recharging is exactly what they do when installed in an emergency light.  As long as the power to the light remains on, the SLA battery is charging.  As soon as the power is cut, the battery begins to power the unit, unless it is connected to an emergency generator.  You may be wondering, if the battery is rechargeable, why does it need to be replaced?

Why Replace Emergency Light Batteries?

That is a good question.  Even rechargeable batteries wear down and lose their capacity to hold a charge over time.  That is why sometime after your battery warranty has expired, you will find yourself going out to buy a new rechargeable battery.  Even though they need replacement eventually, rechargeable batteries are still a better alternative to non-rechargeable batteries when used in an emergency device.  You must use rechargeable batteries in your emergency light.

The easiest way to find the correct replacement  for your battery is to check the voltage, dimensions and terminal type of your current battery.  To do this you must first find the battery compartment on your light.  If it is an exit sign, the battery compartment is usually found above the word exit.  Depending on the light you may need to unscrew it or simply pop it open.

Installing an Emergency Light Battery

All emergency lights feature a simple push button for easy testing of the battery backup system. OSHA requries monthly and yearly tests.

Some batteries will be housed in a harness, which you must remove, or other will simply be in the unit by themselves.  Remove the harness or battery from the unit.  The voltage will usually be either 6v or 12v.  The dimensions and terminal type can vary based on your particular emergency light.  Use the voltage, dimensions and terminal type to purchase your new battery.  Place the new battery into the harness and return the harness to the housing.  If there was no harness, simply install the new battery so that the terminals are matched up correctly.

Replace the cover to the battery compartment and screw in place if necessary.  Most lights will have a test button so that you can test the new battery.  Emergency light testing makes sure that the battery is working properly in the event of an emergency power outage. Using the internet is a great way to make sure that you get the best price for your battery.

Take Your Time

Be sure to shop our wide selection and take time to research the different options available.  We provide a warranty on every emergency light battery that we offer.  Getting the best value for the battery you purchase will help cut down on the on-going cost of maintaining your emergency lighting equipment.

By Jonathan Carter