When a storm rolls through Texas or there’s an unexpected blackout, it’s only natural to wonder: What happens to your security system when a power outage hits?

If you’ve ever worried that a loss of electricity could leave your home vulnerable, you’re not alone. Fortunately, most modern home security systems are built to handle a power outage with grace – but the details matter.

Let’s walk through exactly what goes on behind the scenes, how security systems work during power outages, and how you can make sure your home stays protected, no matter what.

How Do Security Systems Operate During a Power Outage?

In the event of a power outage, your system won’t simply shut down and leave you in the dark – at least, not if it’s set up correctly.

Most security systems come with a battery backup or alternate power source to make sure the system keeps running even when the lights go out. The kind of system you have – and how it communicates – affects how well it holds up.

Here’s what typically happens when the power goes out:

  • The main power supply is lost.
  • The system detects the power failure and immediately switches to battery power.
  • Your alarms, sensors, and communication with the monitoring center continue operating via battery or cellular backup (if equipped).
  • Once power is restored, the system switches back to electrical power and may recharge the battery backup.

So yes, security systems can continue to function during a power outage. But the degree of continued protection depends heavily on the design of your security system.

Determining Whether Your System Will Keep Running During an Outage

Not all security systems work the same way. Here’s what to consider if you’re unsure how your system may respond during outages:

Does Your System Have a Battery Backup?

A battery backup system is the first line of defense. Most of today’s best home security systems, including popular DIY home security brands like SimpliSafe, come with backup batteries that keep the most critical functions online.

  • Battery capacity usually powers essential features for 4 to 24 hours (depending on model and battery health).
  • Systems with energy storage methods like solar power or a generator can extend this period.

How Does Your System Communicate?

Communication is key during outages. Here are common connection types and how they fare:

  • Landline systems: Generally work unless nearby power lines or the telephone network go down. Older home phone lines can work without external power, but Voice over IP (VoIP) systems often require electricity.
  • Internet-connected systems: If your router loses power and you don’t have a UPS (uninterruptible power supply), the system may stop communicating.
  • Cellular backup: A strong choice. These systems communicate with the monitoring center through the cellular network, with no electrical lines required. As long as your backup battery is operating, you stay connected.

What Features Are Affected When You Lose Power?

Even the best security solution might have some functionality degraded in a power loss scenario. Here’s how various components might respond:

Devices That Usually Stay Online

  • Control panel – stays active with battery power
  • Motion detectors and door/window sensors – still armed
  • Alarm device – continues to sound if triggered
  • Smoke detectors – many are battery-powered anyway
  • Monitoring center communication – continues via cellular or landline (if unaffected)

Devices That Might Go Offline

  • Wi-Fi cameras – disabled if the router doesn’t have backup power
  • Smart home devices – may not function
  • Home automation features – often tied to the internet and electric power

Your system’s ability to keep your home safe depends on how well you’ve prepared for downtime.

How to Handle a Power Outage: Keeping Your Security System Running

Want to be sure you’re protected in a blackout? Here are some helpful actions Texans can take:

Invest in Backup Solutions

Depending on your system and location, choose one or more of these:

  • Battery backup – Most systems come with a battery, but be sure to check the expected lifetime.
  • Backup power system – Use like UPS or generators for extended outages.
  • Cellular backup – With a cellular plan, your system can communicate with the monitoring center when Wi-Fi is out.

Keep Batteries in Good Shape

Test your battery backup periodically. Replace backup batteries every few years and make sure your battery capacity still meets manufacturer standards.

Make Sure Cameras Have Power Options

Consider security cameras with solar power or battery power to keep visuals online during an outage.

Use a Generator with a Transfer Switch

A generator combined with a transfer switch can make sure your entire system and essential home devices stay on.

Know Your System’s Limits

Whether you have a professional-grade system from ADT Inc. or residential home security systems from another provider, ask how your system will keep running in a function during a power outage.

Will a Power Outage Affect Commercial Security and Access Control Systems?

For businesses in Texas, commercial security is just as important. Many access control systems and electronic locks are connected to electricity, so they need backup systems in place as well.

  • Access control devices should be wired into the same emergency power system or power solution as the rest of the building.
  • Digital keypads, motion detectors, and IP cameras should have backup power to avoid disruptions in security.

There are also insurance considerations if systems fail during a blackout. You want to be able to demonstrate that your security during power outages is adequate to protect property and staff.

What Kind of Home Security System That Works During Power Outages Should You Choose?

When shopping, look for a system that works without power, or at least has modern systems in place to mitigate outages. Some home security companies offer systems with:

  • Cellular backup
  • Long-lasting battery backup
  • Integration with solar power or home generators
  • Features that alert you on mobile device when the main power fails

The best home security systems will include these features and give you peace of mind when weather or other issues cause a power outage.

For example, ADT and some newer smart home solutions from companies like SimpliSafe provide comprehensive backup solutions to ensure 24/7 protection, even mid-disaster.

Conclusion: Keeping Your Security Strong, No Matter What

So, what happens to your security system when the power goes out? If you’re prepared, not much changes – your protection stays solid.

With battery backup, cellular communication, and intelligent power solutions, today’s security systems operate reliably during even prolonged blackouts.

Here’s what to do now:

  • Check your current system for its power backup capabilities.
  • Talk with your security provider to confirm your system can keep up in a blackout.
  • Test your battery backup regularly.
  • Explore a residential home security system with better backup power if needed.

No one wants to be left vulnerable in the event of a power outage. Taking a few proactive steps can help you keep your home safe, rain or shine.

Need help updating your system? Visit our page on residential home security systems to see how True Home Protection can guide you to a solution that works when systems work when the power goes out.