Where Can I Buy Home Security Batteries?

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Alina Bradford
Apr 12, 2021
Icon Time To Read2 min read
Icon CheckReviewed ByRebecca Edwards

With 25+ years in tech journalism, Alina blends safety expertise with her passion for simplifying technology. Alina has tested hundreds of safety and security devices, is trained as a first responder, and has worked as a volunteer firefighter.

To determine what kind of battery you need, follow these steps.

1. Determine which component needs a battery

If your control panel is emitting a low-battery noise, figure out which security element is the source of the problem. Some common security components that might run on batteries include the following:

Intercom is a safety and a practical device

2. Call the monitoring center to alert a representative that you will be changing batteries

Alarm monitoring companies may flag the system as having been tampered with if you start removing batteries from components. Letting the monitoring center know you’ll be changing the batteries can prevent an unexpected visit from the police.

3. Determine what type of replacement you need

At this point, you’ll be able to determine what type of battery the device needs. In general, the only components that might require special batteries are the control panel and keypad.

Alarm system control panels often take large 12V batteries. The keypads of smart security systems might use a special battery pack, although many older keypads just take AAs.

Any other components are likely to use AA batteries or the round, flat batteries often used in watches.

4. Purchase and install a replacement

After you figure out which type of battery you need, you can head to the store to pick up the replacement.

If you need a battery that your convenience store doesn’t carry, you typically have two choices: contact your home security company to order a replacement or take the battery to a specialty store to have them order one for you.

Once you have the right battery replacement, carefully remove the dead battery from the device—remembering to dispose of it properly—and install the new battery. You can then call the monitoring center to let them know the battery replacement is complete.

While changing a system’s batteries does add another step to security maintenance, many people gladly take on the responsibility to avoid dealing with hardwiring and power cords, which can make a system look more conspicuous. 

Compare the best home security systems

Brand
Self-monitoring option
Monthly cost Icon Tooltip  Dark
Starter equipment price
Break-in deterrent(s) Icon Tooltip  Dark
Smart home compatibility Icon Tooltip  Dark
Learn more
Icon No  LightNo
$0.00Smart AI detection, 2-way talk, Yard sign/window decalGoogle,
Z-Wave
Icon Yes  LightYes
$250.96Active Guard, AI detection, Live agent intervention, SirenAmazon,
Google
Icon No  LightNo
$199.00Smart Deter lurker detection, Lights, Sounds Amazon,
Google,
Z-Wave
Icon No  LightNo
CustomMotion sensors/cameras, Glass break sensor, SirenAmazon, Google
Icon Yes  LightYes
$65.00Acoustic/vibration sensors, AI-powered alerts, Smart security integrationAmazon, Google, Apple, Z-Wave, Zigbee

Info current as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. *ADT $28.99 for landline system only. Full ADT disclaimer

Alina Bradford
Written by
Alina is a safety and security expert with over 25 years of experience. She has contributed her insights to CNET, CBS, Digital Trends, MTV, Top Ten Reviews, and many others. After testing thousands of devices, apps, services, and more, her goal is to make safety and security gadgets less mystifying one article at a time. In the early 2000s, Alina worked as a volunteer firefighter, earning her first responder certification and paving the way to her current career. Plus, she has tested hundreds of pieces of security and safety equipment over the years. Places published: CBS, MTV, CVS, Rachael Ray, eBay, Reader’s Digest, ConsumerAffairs, and more. Certifications: Fire Service Training, Oklahoma State University. Awards: Received the Experience Leader certificate from Authority, putting her “in the top 25% among the thousands of professional content creators analyzed by Authory for the Fall 2023 audit.” You can view more of Alina's work at alinabradford.com.

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