Severe Winter Power Outages: Will My Home Or Office Security Systems Work?

As the winter season approaches, many homeowners and business owners are concerned about the impact of power outages on their security systems. Power outages can be caused by severe winter weather conditions, such as blizzards, snowstorms, and freezing temperatures. In this article, we will explore the functionality of security systems during power outages and provide tips on how to ensure the safety of your property.

The Impact of Power Outages on Security Systems

During a power outage, the main concern for homeowners and business owners is whether their security systems will continue to be operational. The functionality of security systems during power outages depends on the type of system and its power source.

Traditional Landline Systems

Traditional landline-based security systems rely on phone lines to communicate with monitoring centers. In the event of a power outage, these systems typically continue to operate on battery power for up to 24 hours. The phone lines remain operational, ensuring that the security control panel can communicate with the monitoring center.

If you are considering a landline-based security system, we recommend ADT or ADT Self Setup. These systems offer reliable communication with monitoring centers during power outages.

Cellular Security Systems

Cellular security systems, similar to cell phones, are unaffected by localized power outages. These systems rely on cellular data to communicate with monitoring centers. However, the backup battery life of the control panel is a limitation. Most modern cellular security systems offer cellular backup as part of their premium subscription packages.

Our favorite home security systems, such as Arlo, Ring, and SimpliSafe, utilize cellular data communication. These systems ensure uninterrupted communication with monitoring centers during power outages.

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)

VoIP-based security systems draw their power from home phone lines. While these systems include battery backup, they can be vulnerable to power outages that also result in an internet outage. In such cases, the systems may stop communicating with monitoring centers.

To maintain connectivity with monitoring centers during power and internet outages, consider Ooma or ADT as your VoIP-based security system providers.

Wi-Fi or Ethernet Systems

Wi-Fi or Ethernet-based security systems heavily rely on internet routers, making them vulnerable to power outages. Without an internet connection to the monitoring center, these systems cease communication until power is restored and the internet is back online.

However, most Wi-Fi or Ethernet-based security systems offer cellular backup to maintain system functionality during power outages. These systems ensure continuous protection, even when the power is out.

Ensuring Security System Functionality During Power Outages

To ensure that your security system remains functional during power outages, consider the following tips:

1. Choose the Right Security System

When selecting a security system for your home or office, consider the power source and backup options. Opt for a system that offers cellular backup or operates on a landline if power outages are a concern in your area.

2. Backup Battery Power

Ensure that your security system is equipped with backup batteries that can sustain its operation during power outages. Check the battery life and consider investing in additional backup batteries if necessary.

3. Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS)

Consider connecting your Wi-Fi router and security system components to an uninterrupted power supply (UPS). A UPS provides backup power during outages, ensuring that your security system remains online.

4. Generator Backup

For prolonged power outages, consider investing in a generator to provide continuous power to your security system. A generator can keep your security system operational for an extended period of time, ensuring the safety of your property.

5. Professional Installation

Opt for professional installation of your security system to ensure that it is correctly connected to backup power sources. Professional installers can also provide guidance on optimizing system functionality during power outages.

6. Regular Maintenance and Testing

Perform regular maintenance and testing of your security system to ensure that it is in working order. Test the backup batteries, connectivity, and communication with monitoring centers to identify any potential issues before a power outage occurs.

7. Insurance Discounts

Many insurance providers offer discounts on policies for homeowners and business owners who have professionally installed security systems. These systems provide an added layer of protection against theft and vandalism, reducing the risk for insurers. Reach out to Safety Northeast Insurance to receive a competitive quote for your insurance needs and to explore potential discounts.

Power outages can pose a threat to the functionality of your home or office security systems. However, by choosing the right system, ensuring backup power sources, and taking necessary precautions, you can maintain the security of your property even during severe winter weather conditions. Prioritize the installation of a reliable security system and implement the recommended measures to protect your home or business during power outages.