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If the Power Goes Out, Does My Security System Still Work?

By Celeste Tholen

Managing Editor

Published on April 12, 2021

The type of home security system you have installed determines what happens when there is a power outage in your home.

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Traditional Phone Lines: If your alarm system operates over traditional phone lines, it will continue to communicate with the monitoring center in the event of a power outage. The phone lines remain operational and the main security control panel in your home will likely continue to operate on backup power for a specified amount of time.

Cellular Radio: This type of wireless home security system continues to work during power outages, drawing their power from battery backup for several hours. Like a cellular phone, communication is unaffected by localized power outages.

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP): These wireless home security systems are vulnerable to power outages, as they draw their power from home phone lines. While they do include battery backup, should a power outage also result in an Internet outage these types of systems can stop communicating with monitoring centers. Some home security companies have solutions for ViOP systems to maintain connectivity with their monitoring center in the event of a power/Internet outage.

Internet: These types of home security alarm systems are the most vulnerable in power outages as a loss of power usually results in an Internet outage as well. Without an Internet connection to a monitoring center, these types of systems stop communication until power is restored and the Internet is up and running.

There are a lot of security systems out there, so if you often fall victim to power outages, you’ll want to make sure you get one that will keep you protected during those times.

To discover your options, take a look at the SafeWise best home security systems page.

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Compare the best home security systems

Brand	Best for	Lowest monitoring price	Starter equipment price	Contract required	Installation	Smart home compatibility	Learn more	Read review
Vivint	Best overall	$29.99/mo.	$599.00	No *	Pro	Amazon, Google, Z-Wave	View Packages	Read review
Frontpoint	High-end DIY pick	$34.99/mo.	$99.00	No	DIY	Amazon, Google, Z-Wave	View Packages	Read review
SimpliSafe	Reader favorite	$14.99/mo.	$229.00	No	DIY	Amazon, Google	View Packages	Read review
Cove	Best customer experience	$14.99/mo.	Quote required	No *	DIY	Amazon, Google	View Packages	Read review
ADT	Most experienced	$27.99/mo.	$0.00	Yes	Pro	Amazon, Google, Z-Wave	View Packages	Read review

Info current as of 04/12/21. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.

*$0 due up-front with consumer financing.

†No-contract options available with outright equipment purchase.

‡Landline monitoring only. Some restrictions apply. (Full disclaimer)

**With $99 installation charge and new monitoring agreement. Early termination fee applies. See full disclaimer for full offer details, terms, and conditions.

Written by

Celeste Tholen

Celeste has dedicated her decade-long career to reporting and reviews that help people make well-informed decisions. She oversees editorial strategy and production for SafeWise, with a goal to help people find the information they need to make their homes and lives safer. Prior to SafeWise, she worked as an editor and reporter for KSL and Deseret News. She continues to report on local news as a volunteer with the community paper. For the last six years, she’s led a Girl Scout troop, teaching girls about safety and preparing for whatever life throws their way.