That battery can be left on trickle charge forever
That is what I needed to know.


There is really no need for a fast charge cycle after a power outage unless you get those outages really often.
No, not really. I have a generator for extended outages..

I can easily keep my little charger for new batteries, charge them, then replace the old one.

I still have a lot of work to do on the control panels. Then I'll be able to determine exactly how much maximum current the circuit will need. I'm aiming for 1A max (700-800mA with siren).

I still have a few unknowns, like the fire and CO detectors, window break detectors, etc.

Thanks guys. I'm really liking the diode technique now that I understand more what goes on.

Robert