How To Change The Battery In A BHS 1200

The BHS 1200 is an alarm system manufactured by ADT that comes with a backup battery that looks like this. The battery enables the system to continuously function despite a power outage to provide security from fire, burglary and emergencies.

When the keypad displays “BAT” without a zone number, that means the battery drained its power. Confirm this by pressing OPTIONS [9] and looking at the blinking light in zone 1. The warning comes with a beeping sound that you can turn off when you press [CANCEL]. Recharge the battery by turning on the AC power. If the warning is still there after 1-2 days, you may have to replace the battery. This usually happens in 3-5 years.

When replacing the battery of the BHS 1200, remember these important steps.

Buy the replacement battery of the BHS 1200.
Put the alarm system on test mode.
Find and open the control panel box to access the backup battery. This can be found in the attic, garage or a closet.
Disconnect the battery, beginning with the black wire before the red wire. Remove them from their respective terminals using pliers with insulated handles. If the wires are tough to remove, wiggle the wires to get them loose. BE CAREFUL not to short the battery as you take it out of the control panel box.
Remove the plastic cover of the new battery. Connect the red wire to the red positive terminal before you connect the black wire to the black negative terminal.
Close the control panel box.
Check if the keypad still displays the low battery warning. Let the new battery recharge for 1-2 days. If the warning persists after the 2nd day, there might be something wrong with the system. Call your alarm provider for help.
Dispose the old battery in a recycling facility.