Feeling safe at home should always be a priority, and installing a new security system can help you do just that—no matter where you live.
How to Change the Battery in a Home Security System
It may feel like a small task, but it’s hugely important
Photo: KOTO / Adobe Stock
Photo: KOTO / Adobe Stock
SKILL LEVEL
Easy
COMPLETION TIME
10 minutes
COST
Up to $25
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What you'll need:
TOOLS
- Screwdriver
- Voltage tester
- Pliers
SUPPLIES
- New batteries
Dead batteries in your TV’s remote control are a nuisance, but dead batteries in your home security system can bring more extreme consequences. Ensure your home is protected even in your absence by routinely checking the panel’s battery level. Most systems will alert you with notifications on the control panel or through your smart home app.
When it’s time, use this guide on how to change the battery in a security system to make sure you get the job done right, regardless of the home security system you choose.
Prepping to Change the Battery
First things first: You need to know when to change the battery. Your system usually tells you when it needs a new power source, but you can usually go with the guideline of swapping it out every 3 to 5 years. You should also take the opportunity to check on its other components as part of your routine security system maintenance.
Open the Control Panel
Photo: hanamirae / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty ImagesThe control panel cover may slide open, or you might need a screwdriver. Following the manufacturer’s instructions on how to access the internal components, open up the control panel now. Once open, you should see a variety of components inside, one of which is a rectangular or square-shaped battery. Your security system’s user manual—which should also be available online if you lost the physical copy—will specify the type of battery it requires. You should be ready to swap out the battery with a new one of the exact same type and voltage.
Remove the Battery
Photo: Ахтем / Adobe StockIn a wireless system, this task is relatively easy. Most wireless systems come with rechargeable batteries that will pop out easily. In a hardwired system, there is some wiring involved that you need to remove, so shut off the breaker that delivers power to your alarm system. Call your local security company for help if you’re uncomfortable working with the electrical components.
Double-check that there is no power to the device with a voltage tester before you get started. Once you’ve confirmed it’s safe, look for the wires connecting to the battery, one red (the positive terminal) and one black (the negative terminal). Pull the black negative wire out first—this may require pliers. Then, move on to the red wire and remove it in the same way.
After that, your battery should be freestanding and ready to pop out of the control panel. Just be sure not to bring any metal into contact with the now free-hanging red and black wires.
Replace the Battery
Pop your new battery into the space the old one was in. Make sure it fits firmly and is balanced between both charges. If you’re dealing with a wired system, you’ll also need to reattach the wires. Start with the red wire, connecting it between the battery and the terminal, followed by the black wire.
Test the System
Photo: Tetra Images / Tetra images / Getty Images Plus / Getty ImagesOnce the battery is connected, turn the power back on for your wired unit. You shouldn’t see a low battery alert on the control panel anymore. In fact, it’s always best to finish up by testing the system and making sure it works correctly. You may be able to hit a “test” button on the control panel itself or simply set the alarm, open a door, and make sure that it goes off. Be ready to punch in your code to turn it off and avoid a false alarm.
DIY vs. Hire a Pro
For wireless alarm systems, this task is a quick and easy DIY. Most modern security systems come with a battery that’s easy to pop in and out, and as long as you’ve got new batteries to replace them with, you’re ready to go.
If you’re using a wired system, you may be more inclined to hire a professional from the company that manufactures your security system. That’s perfectly reasonable, as working with electrical without experience can be dangerous. Your technician can also run some routine maintenance on the system while they’re changing the battery for you. Depending on the system you have, this kind of routine maintenance may be included in the cost to install your system or of your monthly subscription, so you won’t have to worry about any added fees.
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