How To Change Sentry Safe Batteries
It is crucial to have a safe at home for all sorts of reasons. There are burglars to consider of course. But there also may be items you don’t want other family members, like your children, getting their hands on. Then there are fire-proof safes like the ones made Sentry Safe, which protect your most valuable and important belongings even when there is a fire. But every once in a while, you may find that the safe runs out of battery life.
There are several Sentry Safe models, and four possible locations of the battery compartment. The compartment is either located below the keypad, behind the keypad, on the right side of the keypad or inside the door. Once you locate the compartment, replace old batteries with new alkaline batteries. Don’t use used, rechargeable, or non-alkaline batteries. Use a diagram to properly insert new batteries, and then test the safe.
The most important thing you need to find out about your Sentry Safe in order to change the batteries is the model number. The company makes all sorts of different safes with different designs. While they all require new batteries, the location of the battery compartment varies based on the model. This is critical to know. After all, you can’t exactly change the batteries if you don’t know where they are.
What Battery Type Do Sentry Safes Use?
Before you run off to the store to buy new batteries, you should know what type of batteries Sentry Safes use. Almost all types of Sentry Safe that we have found use AA alkaline batteries. You will need 4 brand new batteries in most cases, as that is what it takes to fill the chamber. If your battery compartment is located inside the door and the batteries are too low to open the safe, you might need a 9 volt battery also. More on that later.
The Four Possible Locations Of The Battery Compartment
In order to know how to change your batteries in the step-by-step guide below, you need to know where your battery compartment is located. You can use your model number or user manual to find this information. If that information is not readily available, check in the four spots listed below.
1. The Battery Compartment Is Below The Keypad
Many Sentry Safes have the battery compartment located just under the keypad. You should notice a tiny Buttonhole, where you can use a paperclip to push the button. This will release the battery compartment.
2. The Battery Compartment Is Behind The Keypad
Another common, and more hidden, location for the battery compartment is behind the keypad. If the battery compartment is behind the keypad, accessing it will be slightly more complicated.
First, you need to locate the screw on the side of the keypad. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screw. Once you have removed the screw, you can twist the keypad clockwise, will then release it. Then you ill have access to the battery compartment.
3. There Is A Battery Drawer On The Right Side Of The Lock
Some other models have their battery compartment located on the right side of the lock. If you have a Sentry safe with the battery located in this area, locate it and pull out the compartment.
4. The Battery Compartment Is On The Inside Of The Door
Other models have their battery compartments located inside the door. This can prove a bit more difficult at times. When you have a regular battery changing schedule, you should have no issues. If, however, your Sentry Safe runs out of power before you change the batteries, you may have a tougher time.
If your batteries are very low on power, you might not even be able to open the door to change them. Luckily, the company planned a backup power. You should notice a silicone cap on the side of the lock. You can open this cap and place a brand new 9-volt battery inside. This 9-volt battery will give the Sentry Safe the temporary power it needs to open. Listen for three little beeps, and then press the keypad to wake it up.
Step By Step Guide To Changing Your Sentry Safe Batteries
Step One: Locate And Open The Battery Compartment
As mentioned above, there are four possible locations of your battery compartment. Follow the guide above as to how to locate and open your battery compartment. Once you have the battery compartment opened, you are ready for step two.
Step Two: Remove Old Batteries
The next step is to remove the old batteries. Be sure to place them aside so as to not get them confused with the new batteries. It is also a good idea to look inside the battery chamber at this point. Inspect the area for any rust or damage, which can occur when there is moisture or a leaky battery.
Step Three: Insert Brand New Batteries
Now it is time to insert the new batteries. The battery chamber requires four brand new alkaline batteries. There is likely a diagram readily available on the side of the battery compartment. Use this to guide you. This will ensure you insert the batteries in the correct direction.Make sure you purchase alkaline batteries. Do not use your rechargeable batteries or any non-alkaline batteries. Don’t mix and match new and used batteries either.
Step Four: Re-Insert Battery Compartment
Once you insert the new batteries, you can also insert the battery compartment. Be sure you follow the proper procedure to properly secure the compartment. In some cases this involves snapping it safely into place. In others you need to use a screw and phillips head screwdriver to put the keypad back in place. Either way, ensure the batteries and device are secure before moving on.
Step Five: Test The New Batteries By Opening The Safe
Make sure you have done the job properly by testing the safe. Type in the combination and make sure the device opens with ease. If the keypad is not lighting up and the safe does not open, check your work and the batteries.
How Long Do Batteries Last In A Sentry Safe?
The battery life of your Sentry Safe can depend on the model, batteries used and how often the safe is opened and closed. In general, however, the batteries should work upwards of two years.
While they can last that long, it is wise to swap them out before they die. So consider changing them every 18 months or so, or even every year if you use the safe often. Some models give a warning when the battery is low. Don’t ignore this warning.
Closing Up How To Change Your Sentry Safe Batteries
Your Sentry Safe is a great way to keep some of your most important belongings, or even a gun, safe from all sorts of conditions. When your batteries are running low, or die, you need to replace them right away, Make sure you use brand-new alkaline batteries. Do not use rechargeable batteries, a combination of new and used batteries, or non-alkaline batteries.
Sentry Safes have different models with battery compartments in different places. Regardless of where your compartment is, make sure you remove and install the batteries according to the diagram. Once you insert the batteries properly, properly place the battery compartment back in place. Lastly, test the safe to make sure the battery change was a success.
Tom Gaffey is an expert writer who currently resides in Washington D.C. Tom has a passion for real estate and home improvement writing, as well as travel and lifestyle writing. He lived the last twelve years in Hawaii where he worked closely with luxury resorts and event planners, mastering his knowledge of aesthetics and luxury products. This is where he found his passion for home improvement and a keen interest in DIY projects. Currently, Tom resides in Washington D.C, and also working on his debut fiction novel.
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