Security camera systems are essential for protecting your property, assets, and people from intruders, theft, fire, and other threats. However, security systems are not immune to power outages, which can compromise their functionality and leave you vulnerable. That’s why you need a power backup plan for your security system, in case the main power source fails or is cut off.
This blog talks about the options you have when it comes to installing security systems to help you decide the right one for your business.
What is a Security System Power Backup?
A power backup system is a secondary power source that can keep your security system running when the main power source is unavailable. This power backup can provide power to your security system for a limited time to keep your cameras running, your access control functional and your alarms working. The time frame of the backup depends on the type of power backup installed and the capacity of the system.
Why Do Security Systems Require Backups
Power backup for security systems is required for several reasons, which involve technical issues as well as intentional sabotage. These are the possible reasons why getting a backup for your system is a good idea:
Whatever the reason, it is a good idea to get a backup for your security system to make sure that your site always remains secure and protected.
What are different types of security system power backup?
There are four main types of security system backups:
Solar-Powered Backup
A solar powered backup is a backup that uses solar panels to convert sunlight into electricity, which can power your security system. A solar powered backup consists of:
Whatever the reason, it is a good idea to get a backup for your security system to make sure that your site always remains secure and protected.
Steps to install Solar-Powered backup on your site
To install a solar powered backup on your site, you need to:
UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply)
A UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) is a power backup that uses a battery and an inverter to provide continuous power to your security system, even when the main power source is interrupted. A UPS consists of:
Steps to install UPS on your site:
To install a UPS on your site, you need to:
- Determine the power requirements of your security system, and choose the appropriate size and capacity of the battery, inverter, and transfer switch.
- Find a suitable location for your UPS, where it can be easily accessed and maintained, and plug it into a wall outlet.
- Connect your security system to the UPS, using wires and connectors.
- Test the UPS, and monitor its performance and maintenance.
Power Backup Generator
A generator is a power backup that uses a fuel source, such as gasoline, diesel, propane, or natural gas, to generate electricity, which can power your security system. A generator consists of:
- Engine: This is a device that burns the fuel and converts it into mechanical energy.
- Alternator: This is a device that converts the mechanical energy from the engine into AC electricity.
- Fuel tank: This is a device that stores the fuel for the engine.
- Control panel: This is a device that controls the operation and output of the generator.
Steps to install Generator on your site
To install a generator on your site, you need to:
- Determine the power requirements of your security system, and choose the appropriate size and type of the generator, fuel tank, and control panel.
- Find a suitable location for your generator, where it can be safely and securely installed, and where it can receive adequate ventilation and exhaust.
- Connect the generator to your security system, using wires and connectors, and to the fuel tank, using hoses and valves.
- Test the generator, and monitor its performance and maintenance.
Built-in Battery Backup
A built-in battery power backup is a backup that is integrated into your security system, and provides power to your security system when the main power source fails. This includes the backup built in to your security cameras, alarm systems and more, that keep running when power goes out for a short while. This power backup however, depends on whether the batteries are charged, specifically for security cameras.
How to Choose the Right Backup for Your Business
Each backup system has their own pros and cons. Here is a comparison to help you decide. You can also consult your security company to see which one works best for you.
| Factor | Solar Powered Backup | UPS | Generator | Built-in Battery Backup |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | High initial cost, low operating cost | Moderate initial cost, low operating cost | Low initial cost, high operating cost | Low initial cost, low operating cost |
| Capacity | Depends on the size and number of solar panels and batteries | Depends on the size and capacity of the battery, can be increased with larger/more batteries | Depends on the size and type of the generator and fuel tank | Fairly low, only for emergencies of a short duration |
| Durability | Long-lasting, but sensitive to weather and damage | Long-lasting, but has to be charged when power is available | Short-lasting, but robust and reliable | Long-lasting, but has to be maintained properly |
| Maintenance | Requires regular cleaning and inspection of solar panels, battery, charge controller, and inverter | Requires regular testing and replacement of battery, inverter, and transfer switch | Requires regular refilling and servicing of fuel tank, engine, alternator, and control panel | Requires regular testing and replacement of batteries when they go out |
| Environmental impact | Eco-friendly, but requires disposal of battery and solar panels | Eco-friendly, but requires disposal of battery and inverter | Polluting, but requires disposal of fuel and generator | Eco-friendly, requires no additional systems |
To choose the right backup for your business, here are a few questions you have to ask yourself:
- Your budget: How much are you willing to spend on the initial installation and the ongoing operation of the backup?
- Your backup needs: How much power does your security system consume, and how long do you need the backup to last?
- Your site conditions: How much space do you have for the backup, and what are the environmental factors that may affect the backup?
- Your preferences: How important are the environmental impact, the reliability, and the convenience of the backup for you?
Based on these factors, you can select the backup that best suits your business needs and goals.
Looking For Security System Backup In Canada?
If you are looking to get a power backup system for security in Canada, Spotter Security has your back. With over 20 years of experience in the security industry, Spotter Security has helped businesses from various industries secure their site, protect their assets and safeguard their employees.
Spotter Security is your go-to security service provider to install UPS backups on your site to ensure that your system keeps running, complies with the stipulated requirements by insurance companies, and keeps you secure during an incident. Contact today to get a consultation on installing security systems backup for your business.
Written by : Carlo Di Leo
At the age of 24, with no experience in the security industry or any money in the bank, Carlo quit his job and started Spotter Security from his parent's basement. Founded in 2004, Spotter grew from a single man operation into a multi-million dollar security system integrator that caters to businessess and construction sites across Canada.
