To put batteries in a Sentry Safe, you generally need to access the battery compartment, which is typically located on the inside of the safe door. You will need four new alkaline batteries.
Locating and Accessing the Battery Compartment
The battery compartment for most Sentry Safes with electronic keypads is found on the inside of the safe door. It's often a small, rectangular cover near the keypad mechanism.
If Your Safe is Locked Without Power
If your Sentry Safe's electronic lock is unresponsive due to dead batteries and you need to open it to access the battery compartment, you'll need to use the override key:
- Locate the override key cover: This is typically a small, removable cover positioned between the dial and the keypad. Carefully remove this cover.
- Insert the override key: Insert the override key into the exposed keyhole.
- Turn the key and dial: Turn the key counterclockwise (to the left), then turn the safe's main dial clockwise (to the right) to unlock and open the door.
Once the safe door is open, you can proceed to change the batteries.
Inserting the Batteries
After opening your Sentry Safe door, follow these steps to install new batteries:
- Identify the battery compartment: Look for a small cover, usually with arrows indicating how to slide or remove it, on the inside panel of the safe door, often near the locking mechanism or keypad wires.
- Remove the battery compartment cover: Slide or unclip the cover in the direction the arrows are pointing to expose the battery tray.
- Insert the batteries: Place four new batteries into the compartment. Pay close attention to the positive (+) and negative (-) indicators molded into the compartment to ensure correct orientation. Incorrect battery placement will prevent the keypad from functioning.
- Replace the cover: Securely reattach the battery compartment cover.
Choosing the Right Batteries for Your Sentry Safe
Using the correct type of batteries is crucial for the optimal performance and longevity of your Sentry Safe's electronic lock.
| Battery Type | Recommendation | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Alkaline | Recommended | Provides stable power and is suitable for electronic safe locks. |
| Rechargeable | Avoid | May not provide consistent voltage or sufficient power. |
| Non-Alkaline | Avoid | Can have different voltage characteristics and may not be compatible. |
Always use new, high-quality alkaline batteries. Using non-recommended types can lead to erratic keypad behavior or complete electronic lock failure.
Testing Your Sentry Safe's New Batteries
After installing the batteries, close the safe door, but do not lock it yet. Test the keypad by entering your master code. If the keypad lights up and you hear a "click" or see a "green light" indication that it's unlocked, your batteries are correctly installed and the system is working.
Tips for Battery Maintenance
- Regular Replacement: It's a good practice to replace your Sentry Safe's batteries annually, even if they haven't completely died, to ensure reliable operation.
- Avoid Mixed Batteries: Never mix old and new batteries, or different brands of batteries, as this can lead to uneven discharge and potential leaks.
- Check for Leaks: If you're replacing very old batteries, inspect the compartment for any signs of corrosion or leakage. Clean any residue carefully if present.
For more detailed information or specific model instructions, you can always refer to the official SentrySafe support page: SentrySafe Support
