lynxrchkit-sc Batteries
Like all alarm systems, the Honeywell LYNX Touch Panels rely on a plug-in transformer for primary power. AC power is reliable and consistent the vast majority of the time. This is the most efficient way to keep an alarm system continuously running at all times. However, there are times when the electricity will go out. In those situations, your panel will need a battery backup to remain powered on.
The LYNXRCHKIT-SC is one of three (3) battery packs available for the LYNX Touch Panels. This particular battery back is the lowest of the three (3) options. It provides a maximum of four (4) hours of backup power. This is really only useful for short-term power outages for when you expect the electricity to return very quickly. If you live in an area where power outages are more frequent or last for an extended period of time, you might consider getting a more robust battery pack. The LYNXRCHKIT-HC and the LYNXRCHKIT-SHA will both provide longer backup power than the LYNXRCHKIT-SC.
A battery back like the LYNXRCHKIT-SC works by slowly storing power whenever the system is running on AC power. By slowly storing power, the battery will be ready to take over as soon as an outage occurs. The battery will then keep the system running as long as it has enough power. Once AC power is returned, the system will automatically switch back over to its primary power source, and the battery will resume its process of storing a charge.
The lifespan for a backup battery pack is not indefinite. A battery pack will slowly lose its ability to store a charge. Eventually, it will need to be replaced with a new battery pack. This is a fairly simple process. All you have to do is open up the panel by pressing on the top 2 upper tabs and then separate the front plate from the back cover. Then disconnect the old battery pack from its port and connect a new one in its place. Please note that the LYNXRCHKIT-SC and LYNXRCHKIT-HC use the smaller battery port, while the LYNXRCHKIT-SHA uses the larger battery port.
It is usually very easy to tell when a new system battery is needed. But there are a few things to keep in mind. Most backup batteries for LYNX Touch Systems last for about three (3) to five (5) years with standard use. If it has been about 3 to 5 years since your last battery replacement and you are suddenly experiencing low battery trouble, then a replacement is likely in order.
You should also consider the fact that there may have recently been a power outage, and the battery might just be temporarily drained. It may just need some time to restore its charge, and you will be able to clear the low battery trouble without replacing the current one. A good rule of thumb is to give your panel a full 24-hours of running on continuous AC power to see if the battery can store its own charge. If after 24 hours of continuous AC power the battery is still showing no signs of life, then it is probably time for a replacement.