Why You Can't Replace the Battery Yourself
Unlike many consumer electronics, Life Alert medical alert devices are designed with proprietary, sealed, and non-rechargeable batteries. This design is for reliability and to ensure the equipment's waterproofing and durability. Because the battery is factory-sealed, attempting to open the unit to replace it yourself could cause irreversible damage and void any warranty. This specialized design also allows Life Alert's monitoring center to remotely supervise the battery level and proactively detect when a replacement is needed.
The Supervised Monitoring Process
Life Alert utilizes a 'supervised' system, which means their monitoring center continuously checks the status of your medical alert button. This process is key to their battery replacement policy. When the system detects a low battery signal from your device, it automatically alerts their customer service team. This proactive approach ensures that a new button is on its way long before your current one completely fails, minimizing any gap in service.
The Official Life Alert Battery Replacement Process
When a low battery signal is detected or you notice a warning on your device, the process for a replacement is straightforward and handled entirely by the company.
- Notification: Life Alert’s monitoring center automatically receives a signal when your wearable pendant or wall button has a low battery. You may also receive a call from customer service. If your device has a low battery indicator or announces it verbally, you should also call them yourself.
- Contact: Call Life Alert's customer service line. You can find this number in your initial documentation or on their official website. Let the representative know that you've received a low battery alert.
- Shipment: Life Alert will send you a new replacement device with a fresh, fully charged battery at no cost. This process ensures you get a new, reliable unit without the hassle or risk of trying to open and repair your current one.
- Activation: Once the new unit arrives, you will be instructed on how to properly test and activate it. This usually involves a simple button press that sends a signal to the monitoring center.
- Disposal: After confirming the new device is working, you will be provided with instructions on how to return or dispose of the old unit. It is important to follow these instructions to ensure the old device is handled properly and its battery is responsibly recycled.
Comparison of Medical Alert Battery Policies
Understanding how different providers handle battery maintenance can help clarify Life Alert's specific policy. While some systems, like MobileHelp, require you to contact them for a replacement, others like Medical Care Alert have different procedures for different devices.
|
|
| Feature |
Life Alert |
Medical Care Alert (Home System) |
Medical Care Alert (Home & Yard) |
| Device Battery Type |
Proprietary, non-rechargeable, factory-sealed |
Proprietary, non-rechargeable, factory-sealed |
Rechargeable |
| Pendant Battery Life |
Up to 10 years |
5-7 years |
Up to 30 days, rechargeable |
| Replacement Process |
Company ships new device upon low battery signal |
Company ships new device upon low battery signal |
User swaps batteries from charging cradle |
| DIY Replacement |
Not possible; voids warranty |
Not possible; voids warranty |
User-replaceable with company-provided batteries |
| Cost for Replacement |
No cost to subscriber |
No cost to subscriber |
No cost (within subscription) |
Safety and Reliability Concerns of DIY Replacement
Attempting a do-it-yourself (DIY) battery replacement on a Life Alert pendant can compromise its ability to function reliably in an emergency. The device is not only a simple battery-powered button but a critical piece of medical equipment. Breaking the factory seal to replace the battery can have several unintended consequences:
- Loss of Waterproofing: The sealing mechanism is specifically designed to keep water out, allowing the device to be used in the shower, a high-risk area for falls. A DIY opening could compromise this seal, leading to device failure from water damage.
- Signal Degradation: The internal components are sensitive. Any improper handling could affect the transmitter, potentially weakening the signal sent to the base station and monitoring center.
- Invalidating Warranty: Opening the device automatically voids any warranty or service agreement with Life Alert. This means you would be responsible for the cost of a replacement if your device malfunctions.
- Using Incorrect Battery: Without proper knowledge, you might purchase and use a generic battery that doesn't meet the device's specific power and life-expectancy requirements, leading to premature failure.
Conclusion
In short, you cannot manually replace the battery on a Life Alert device. The company's policy is to manage all battery-related issues by providing a new, pre-tested replacement unit at no additional cost when the old one's power begins to fade. This system of supervised monitoring and proactive replacement is a key part of the Life Alert service, prioritizing user safety and ensuring equipment reliability. Your only required action when you receive a low battery notification is to contact the company and follow their instructions for receiving and activating the replacement device.
Safewise medical alert battery guide
What to do if your Life Alert pendant's battery dies
Call Life Alert customer service as soon as you notice a low battery indicator.
The average lifespan of a Life Alert pendant battery is up to 10 years.
If your device has a low battery, Life Alert will send you a new one at no charge.
Opening the device yourself will void the warranty.
Always wear your pendant, even when you are waiting for a replacement.
Regularly test your device to ensure it is functioning correctly.
Follow Life Alert's instructions for returning your old device for proper disposal.
Life Alert's monitoring center proactively tracks battery levels, so they may contact you first.
The replacement process is free and hassle-free, ensuring your safety is not compromised.
Do not try to repair a Life Alert device yourself.
The in-home base station typically has a different battery and can run on backup power during an outage.
Contact customer support if you accidentally damage your pendant.
The company's replacement policy is a benefit of your service agreement.
Always have your contact information and subscriber details on hand when you call.
Never hesitate to test your device to confirm it is working properly.
What happens if the power goes out?
The base station has a backup battery that will work for a limited time.
For more information on medical alert batteries, consult the Safewise guide.
Consider the type of battery when choosing between different medical alert systems.
How does the company know when the battery is low?
The pendant sends a signal to the monitoring center when the battery is low.
Will I receive a new pendant or a new battery?
Life Alert typically sends a new, fully charged pendant, not just a new battery.
My base station is beeping. What should I do?
This could indicate a power failure, a phone line problem, or a low battery. Contact Life Alert to troubleshoot.
What do I do with the old device?
Life Alert will provide instructions for the proper disposal or return of the old unit with the dead battery.
How long does it take to receive a new pendant?
The delivery time will depend on shipping, but Life Alert prioritizes getting a replacement to you quickly.
What if I lose my pendant?
You will need to contact Life Alert to report the lost device and arrange for a replacement. There may be a cost associated with lost equipment.
Do all medical alert systems use sealed batteries?
No, some systems, particularly mobile or home and yard versions from other companies, feature rechargeable or user-replaceable batteries.
What if my device doesn't have a low battery indicator?
Rely on the company's proactive monitoring and contact them periodically if you are concerned.
Can I test the battery myself?
You can test the device by pressing the button, but this does not measure battery level. Rely on the company's monitoring and your own observations.
What if the new pendant doesn't work?
Contact Life Alert immediately to ensure the new device is activated and functioning correctly. They will assist you with troubleshooting or send another replacement if necessary.
Does the battery life depend on how often I press the button?
Pressing the button has minimal impact on the long-term battery life. The batteries are designed for extended standby use.
What if I need a new battery for the base station?
The base station typically has a rechargeable internal backup battery that lasts for several hours. If it fails, Life Alert will likely replace the entire unit.
Is the replacement process included in my monthly fee?
Yes, the cost of the device and battery replacements is typically covered by your monthly subscription fee.
Can I purchase an extra battery?
Since the pendant batteries are not user-replaceable, there is no option to purchase extra batteries from the company.
What if I move to a new home?
Contact Life Alert to update your address and ensure your new location has adequate coverage.
Can I use a regular coin to open the battery compartment?
Never attempt to force open or pry into any part of the device, as it is sealed and not designed for user access. This could damage the unit and void the warranty.
Do I need to be home for the delivery of the new pendant?
Your new device will be shipped to your address. You should follow the company's instructions for delivery and installation to ensure continuity of service.
How can I be sure the replacement is working?
Test the new device by pressing the button and confirming with the operator that the signal was received successfully.
What if I accidentally threw out the old pendant?
Contact Life Alert immediately to inform them of the situation. They will provide guidance and may need to send a replacement for the lost unit at a potential charge.
What if the new pendant has a different battery?
The company will provide the correct device with the appropriate, factory-sealed battery, so you do not need to worry about compatibility issues.
Is there a battery check on the device itself?
Some models have a low battery announcement or light indicator, but the company's remote monitoring is the primary method for tracking battery health.
How does the service work during a low battery?
The device typically functions normally even when a low battery signal is sent, giving you ample time to receive a replacement before it completely dies.
Is there an alternative to wearing the pendant?
Yes, Life Alert offers wall-mounted help buttons that also have long-lasting batteries and function similarly to the wearable devices.
What if I have a wall-mounted button instead of a pendant?
The battery replacement policy is the same for the wall-mounted buttons, and the company will send a replacement when needed.
