Yeah I'm not sure how they get 5 years, even from a lithium considering some of the physical space is taken (and electrical current used) by the electronics. Then again, I've never had a CFL last the 7 years they tout either so...
Agreed, nor did two of my 10-year or 15-year LED bulbs last... Not so sure what theoretical formula these home automation and electronics estimations are using, but clearly they are often optimistic.
Having said that, it is an interesting idea for a retrofit. I would prefer a more reliable solution such as triggering off the alarm panel's smoke alarms or a smoke alarm better integrated / hard wired. Perhaps that battery, though, could work on a hardwired smoke alarm and still draw power/notify even if low. I do feel wasteful replacing the batteries in my hard-wired smoke alarms every year without knowing if they are actually bad... and we have a LOT of smoke alarms in the house as electrician went a tad overboard. At least we are safe I guess...
Adam
Posted: Sat Feb 28, 2015 9:00 am