What Batteries to Use for Digital Locks

Summary: 
Refer to the lock user guide and battery usage suggestions. A common suggestion would be to replace the lock batteries with Alkaline type battery (eg. Energizer Max) every 8-10 months. Never mix old and new batteries or different battery brands and type. This may cause battery liquid leaks resulting in lock damage and malfunction. Such damages are not covered by warranty.

 
Frequently asked questions:

1. How often do I replace the lock batteries?
   Digital lock manufacturer usually specifies a battery replacement cycle and appropriate battery type. For example, it may state every 12 months based on 10 entries a day using alkaline type batteries. Please refer to your specific lock model user guide. Replacing batteries earlier than recommended due to heavier usage or when using a relatively unknown brand may avoid unexpected low power situations. 
   
   
2. Can I wait till the lock signals low battery?
   Yes, you can but we recommend being proactive. Low battery indicators (melody and/or visual indicator) are last minute warnings and you may not have time to replace them. Also, when batteries are near depletion, chemical changes build up pressure within the battery cell and increases risk of battery liquid leaks. Go with scheduled replacements instead of waiting for low battery indicators to appear.
   
   
3. What batteries type to use?
   Use alkaline type batteries as suggested by lock manufacturers based on lock electronics design specifications . These alkaline batteries have the word "alkaline" printed on the battery body. In doubt, go with Energizer Max because they are easy to find in the local supermarket. Panasonic Evolta are also easy to find. Ensure they are "alkaline" type. 
   
   What not to use / not recommended:
   - Avoid carbon-zinc batteries eg. Eveready (carbon zinc type). These are generally underpowered and you will need to replace more often and you might forget. Also, battery power may dip fast near depletion and low battery indicators may be missed. These batteries are usually labelled "Heavy Duty" or "Super Heavy Duty". Don't be misled by the marketing labels.
   - You do not need expensive lithium batteries because digital locks are not high current discharge devices.
   - You should not use rechargeable batteries because the manufacturer says so (period). You may try at your own risk.
   
   
4. How many batteries and what size? 
   Most locks require only 4 or 8 pieces of AA size batteries.  Some locks allow up to 8 batteries if your lock is optionally equipped with remote control or bluetooth option or has additional battery heavy features eg camera. If they are not fitted with those options, then the rule of thumb is: 4 batteries are enough. Refer to the user guide to be sure.
   
   
5. What brand of batteries?
   We suggest Energizer Max, because they are easy to find and they are only available as alkaline type so it is hard to make a mistake. Buy from high traffic​ outlets (supermarkets, petrol kiosks) and avoid heavily discounted batteries and batteries priced very low. You can use other brands as long as they are alkaline e.g Panasonic Evolta.
   
   
6. What if you are locked out due to low battery power?
   If you are caught in a low battery situation, you can get a 9V battery from the local supermarket and apply that on the outer body of the digital lock (refer to manual). Some small footprint locks or Aqara/Lockin uses USB-C ports for powering up from say a phone battery bank. Some locks are equipped with mechanical keys as well.
   
   

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