Does ADT-Monitored Security Work without Power?
Posted: January 06, 2020
Protect Your Home systems, monitored by ADT are designed with a 24 hour auxiliary backup to help keep you protected in the event of an outage. Connected security devices, such as glass break sensors and motion detectors, have long-life batteries that can last from 3-9 years. However, any connected surveillance cameras or home automation devices, such as smart locks and video doorbells, rely on Wi-Fi and are not functional when the power goes out.
Power outages are never fun. Loss of electricity, disabled internet connectivity and the lack of heat or air conditioning are just a few of the inconveniences that people face when they lose power. Managing your house without electricity prompts concerns, such as:
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How will we make food?
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What will happen to our perishable items?
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How will we get ready for school and work if the power outage continues?
With worries like these, the last thing you want to worry about is your home security system. With an ADT-monitored system, you can relax knowing that your core system is armed and ready to help protect your home when it’s most vulnerable.
Power outages in the US
According to 2017 data, power outages affected 36.7 million people as a result of 3,526 reported outages. Although the average outage lasted just 81 minutes, these situations were difficult for families across the country.
ADT-monitored system backups during a power outage
The most important parts of ADT-monitored home security systems stay functional with the help of backup batteries. During an outage, you will still maintain a base level of security, helping to protect you from intrusion.
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Security panel: Has a 24-hour backup life.
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Carbon monoxide detectors: Has a 4-5 year battery backup.
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Door/window sensors: Can possibly last with backup power from 3-9 years.
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Fire alarms: Fire and smoke alarms will can function for up to 4-5 years on the auxiliary backup
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Motion detectors: Backup batteries have the capability to last from 3-9 years.
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Wi-Fi-connected equipment: All cameras and home automation devices use Wi-Fi to function and therefore will not work during an outage.
Tips for what to do during a power outage
If you find yourself facing a power outage situation, be sure to take the following steps to help protect your family:
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Use appropriate safety measures with backup generators, such as avoiding usage indoors and keeping them a safe distance away from your home.
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Only open fridges and freezers as necessary to help maintain cold temperatures for food storage.
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Attend immediately to any medical devices or cold storage of medication.
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If temperatures become too hot or cold, seek shelter in an alternate location.
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Check on neighbors, particularly those at risk in extreme conditions.
Power outage preparation tips
The family who fares the best during a power outage is the prepared one. Here are a few ways you can prepare ahead of time to make a power outage incident a little easier.
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Regularly check the batteries on your ADT-monitored home security equipment.
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Stock batteries and candles.
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Store essential supplies, such as non-perishable food items, water, flashlights and a portable generator.
If you’ve invested in a home security system, then you know the value of preparation and forethought in helping to protect your family. Find out all the ways we can help you protect your family. Call 1-800-689-9554.
