A sudden power outage can be more than just an inconvenience for your business. It can disrupt daily operations, put employees at risk, and leave your property vulnerable to theft or vandalism.
This raises an important question: Will your office security system continue to protect you when the power goes out?
The answer depends on the type of system you have, how it is powered, and whether you have backup power in place.
Why Power Outages Can Be a Security Risk
How Criminals Take Advantage of Outages
During a blackout, streetlights, surveillance cameras, and alarm systems may be affected. Criminals know this and sometimes use outages as an opportunity to break in when visibility and detection are reduced.
The Role of Security Systems in Protecting Your Business
Your surveillance cameras, access control systems, and alarms form the backbone of your physical security. If they fail during an outage, it creates a window of vulnerability.
What Happens to Security Systems When Power Is Lost
Impact on Wired Systems
Wired security systems are typically powered directly from the building’s electrical supply. Without backup power, cameras, recorders, and access control points may shut down immediately when electricity is lost.
Impact on Wireless Systems
Wireless systems may rely on battery-powered components, allowing them to continue functioning for a period during an outage. However, if they connect to a central hub or network equipment that loses power, functionality may still be affected.
How Different Components Are Affected
- Surveillance Cameras: Shut down without power unless connected to a battery backup or generator.
- Alarm Systems: Many have built-in backup batteries that keep them running for several hours.
- Access Control: Doors with electronic locks may fail to operate normally, depending on how they are configured (fail-safe or fail-secure).
The Role of Backup Power in Security Systems
Battery Backups (UPS) for Short-Term Power Loss
Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS) provide short-term battery power to connected devices like network video recorders (NVRs), switches, and access control panels. They can keep systems running for 15 minutes to several hours, depending on capacity.
Generators for Extended Outages
A backup generator can keep your security system running indefinitely during an extended outage, as long as it has fuel. Generators can be configured to power only essential systems to save resources.
Built-In Battery Life for Wireless Devices
Some wireless security cameras and alarm sensors have internal batteries that allow them to operate for hours or even days without external power.
How Long Will Your Security System Stay Operational Without Power?
Typical Backup Durations for Different Devices
- UPS for recorders and switches: 15 minutes to 8 hours
- Alarm system backup batteries: 4 to 24 hours
- Wireless cameras with built-in batteries: 4 to 12 hours
Factors That Affect Backup Run Time
Backup duration depends on battery size, the number of devices being powered, and the age and condition of the batteries.
Maintaining Security During a Power Outage
Testing Backup Power Sources Regularly
Batteries and generators should be tested and maintained on a schedule. Over time, batteries lose capacity, and generators require fuel and maintenance to operate reliably.
Ensuring Cellular or Cloud Connectivity
If your system relies on internet connectivity, a power outage could also affect your modem or router. Using a cellular backup connection can keep alerts and remote access online.
Training Staff on Emergency Security Procedures
Employees should know how to secure entrances, manage access, and report suspicious activity during an outage.
Steps to Take After Power Is Restored
Checking System Health and Reconnecting Devices
Once power is back, verify that all cameras, alarms, and access control devices are online and functioning. Some devices may need to be manually restarted.
Reviewing Security Footage and Logs
If backup power kept your cameras recording, review the footage from the outage period to ensure no incidents occurred.
Questions to Ask Your Security Provider
About Backup Power Capabilities
- How long will my system run on backup power?
- Which components are covered by battery or generator backup?
About Remote Monitoring During Outages
- Can the system send alerts if backup power is activated?
- Is there a cellular failover option for internet connectivity?
About System Recovery After Power Returns
- How quickly does the system reconnect and resume full functionality?
- Will any data or footage be lost during the outage?
Final Recommendations: What Happens To Security When The Power Goes Out?
A power outage does not have to leave your business unprotected, but it requires planning. The right combination of backup batteries, generators, and cellular failover can keep your security system running and your property safe until the lights come back on.
At AIS, we design office security systems that stay operational during outages and integrated technology solutions that help you prepare for unexpected events. Our goal is to ensure your business remains secure no matter the circumstances.
For more guidance on securing your business during outages, make sure to reach out to us today!
Topics:
