Power outages are inconvenient, but they aren’t usually a major problem. When you rely on a home security system for protection, however, losing power becomes a bigger concern.
In this guide, we’ll help you understand how a power outage affects your home security system. We’ll also give you tips for maintaining your protection while you wait for the power to come back on.
What happens to an alarm system when the power goes out?
There are two main concerns when you lose electricity: power and connectivity.
Every security system runs off of your home’s power supply. Some devices may use batteries, but the system as a whole requires electricity.
Some security providers have built a battery backup into their systems. If the power goes out, these batteries keep the control panel connected to the other devices and the monitoring center. Most backups last one to two days before dying.
Security systems also need a way to connect to the security provider. Systems that use phone lines, for instance, will continue working during a power outage.
Unfortunately, many alarms today use Wi-Fi connections. Since your internet won’t work without power, your security system won’t be able to connect with the monitoring center, your phone, or other devices.
That said, several internet-connected security systems include a cellular backup. Your alarm will rely on this secondary connection until the power comes back on or the backup battery dies.
Do security cameras work when the power is out?
Your security cameras may work during a power outage, depending on the type of device you have.
If your cameras run on battery power, they won’t be affected by the outage. Any devices wired into your home will only work if they have a battery backup.
Many cameras use a Wi-Fi signal to upload footage, so you won’t be able to see, stream, or save any videos, even if the device has power.
Some cameras, such as the Google Nest Cams, have a built-in power outage backup. After losing power, they automatically save up to an hour of recorded video clips on local storage. Once you get power back, you can access this footage on your control panel and smart devices.
How to keep your home secure during a power outage
Whether your system works during an outage or not, it’s good to be prepared. Use these tips to protect your home and family while you wait for the power to be restored.
1. Know how your system works
As discussed, the type of system you have affects your safety during a power outage. Take the time to learn how your alarm works and what to expect during a loss of power.
Focus on:
- Battery backups – Does your system have one? If so, how long will it last? Can you keep extra batteries at your house to extend the battery life?
- System connectivity – Does your security system use a phone line, internet connection, or cellular signal to connect to your provider? Does it include a cellular backup that will keep you online during an outage?
- Specific devices – How many of your security devices will work without power? Do your cameras run on batteries? Do they have a local storage option?
You can find a lot of this information online. Search your provider’s website or Google each device to see how they work. You can also call your security company directly to ask.
With all of this information, you will know exactly how much you can rely on your system during an outage.
2. Keep doors and windows closed
Most door and window sensors run on batteries. Even during an outage, they will still alert you to any unwanted entries, as long as they’re kept closed.
Losing power also means losing air conditioning. During hot summer nights, you may be tempted to leave your windows and doors open to increase airflow. When your doors and windows are open, however, your home is vulnerable to break-ins.
Secure your home by keeping your entries closed and arming your security system. Find alternative ways to keep cool until the electricity is back. If the heat is unbearable and you have to open a window, choose one that is inaccessible and, if possible, located on the second floor.
3. Notify your power company
Power companies are usually aware of problems, but it doesn’t hurt to let them know about the outage you’re experiencing. The sooner the company knows about the problem, the quicker they can fix it.
Even if your system has battery backups and full connectivity, it’s important to get it back to 100% quickly. Once it is up and running again, you can trust that your home is protected.
4. Check the system when the power is restored
When you do get power back, you should make sure it’s working properly. Some devices may not restart correctly, putting your family at risk.
First, check to see if your system needs to be reset. If it’s been running on the battery backup, you will likely need to disconnect the battery and reset the system. Check with your security provider or your system’s documentation to see if this step is required.
Many security systems beep constantly after being reconnected to power. You should be able to stop the beeping by entering your code and resetting the panel.
Next, check each device to make sure it is running and connected to the system. See if you can stream live video from each of your cameras. Make sure you can access each device through the control panel or app. You may be able to run a full systems check yourself, though you will have to research how to do so.
If you come across any problems or concerns, contact your security provider right away. They can help you resolve the issue over the phone or schedule a service call.
Your security system can only protect you if it’s working properly, so make sure you are prepared for any situation.
