6 Messages
Warning - Hope this doesn't happen to you - SimpliSafe put WRONG batteries in Base Station!
I learned this week that a base station that SimpliSafe sent me over a year ago contained regular Yellow Amazon double AA batteries. I only found out because we were getting an error message that the batteries in the base station were not charging. I didn't know the base station even had batteries.
When I called a service representative, he had me remove the power cord and remove the screw to get at the batteries. I then discovered they were NOT rechargeable NiMH batteries, but just regular old double AAs. When I read on this board that those can damage the base station or even cause a fire I became very upset. I bought these devices from SimpliSafe to improve the security of my family. Instead, due to SimpliSafe's negligence, I put them at greater risk.
The CSR told me they are sending out the correct batteries and my base station has not been damaged. I hope that is the case, but at this point I have a serious problem trusting SimpliSafe due to their prior negligence. I think they should have replaced the base station with a new one, but apparently their priority is COST over SECURITY. I may have to go with a different security company. It's really too bad because I bought the system based on all the positive reviews.
I hope SimpliSafe Management takes my concerns to heart. I would not want their actions to put other customers at risk!
emily_s
Community Admin
•
3.4K Messages
2 years ago
Hi @jausdemore,
I'm sorry to hear this! I've forwarded your case to our Support team; a Senior Specialist will reach out to you soon to discuss this further.
2
0
knharris0006
1 Message
2 years ago
I was searching to see if anyone else was having this notification come up. We were also unaware of that the base station required rechargeable batteries. We've used SimpliSafe for at least 2.5 years, and I'm fairly certain we've been using standard AA batteries with no notification issues.
Is this a new notice because it's only come to their attention that the standard AA batteries might cause a fire?
I've ordered NIMH batteries myself to be safe, but I'm more concerned that instead of sending an email notice regarding the battery issue, they thought a notice from the base station was more effective.
3
0
saralgrube
2 Messages
1 year ago
I just discovered the same issue with my base station; we have had the system for almost 4 years and never opened the battery (didn't know it had one, tbh). Started getting error messages which I ignored for a bit, then got an email from Simplisafe that I should change the 'rechargeable' batteries. Opened the compartment to find 4 very corroded, yellow alkaline batteries in there. I've cleaned the corrosion with vinegar and alcohol (Googled that instruction)- but there is still rust. I'm waiting for everything to dry thoroughly before trying rechargeable ones-- but why were those yellow Amazon alkaline batteries in there, as the original poster above also noted-?
3
0
jimholton11
3 Messages
1 year ago
Still waiting on someone to contact me about the problems I've had since installing their system. They're sending me rechargeable batteries but wanted me to pay shipping. Not a happy customer. Thankfully my house didn't catch fire.
1
0
lance843
1K Messages
1 year ago
I'm over here trying to figure out how regular alkaline batteries got put in the base stations from the factory in the first place. I know the rechargeable ones are in mine but how long they last I don't know as mine have been in there for almost 8 years.
0
0
slowerre
1 Message
3 months ago
I just had this same issue. Never even knew there were batteries in there but started getting a notice. Opened the bottom to find regular alkaline batteries that had started to corrode. Called support and they said it is out of warranty (only had this for like 3-4 years). They told me my only option was to buy a new base station for $139!! What the heck?!? This company definitely lost my trust!
2
0
taxguy
2 Messages
2 months ago
Nimh batteries come in different strengths. What do you recommend?
1
0