Replace the battery yourself in 10 minutes with the right part

Most ADT security systems use a rechargeable battery that backs up the panel when power fails. You can replace it yourself without calling a technician — the battery sits inside the main panel, costs between $40 and $100 depending on your model, and takes about 10 minutes to swap out. The hardest part is finding the exact replacement part for your specific panel.

Before you start, write down your panel model number (usually on a sticker on the back or inside the door) and check whether your system is still under a service contract. Some contracts include battery replacement at no cost; others charge a service fee. If you want ADT to do it, call their support line and they will send a technician. If you replace it yourself, you will need to disarm the system first and have a backup power source nearby so the panel does not lose power during the swap.

Key Takeaways

  • ADT batteries are rechargeable backup power supplies that sit inside the main panel and need replacement every three to five years.
  • You need your panel model number to order the correct battery — using the wrong one can damage the panel or fail to power it during an outage.
  • The swap takes about 10 minutes: disarm the system, unplug the panel, disconnect the old battery, insert the new one, and plug the panel back in.
  • If your ADT contract includes maintenance, battery replacement may be covered; call ADT support to check before you buy a replacement.

Find your panel model and order the right battery

Open the panel door or look at the back of the unit for a sticker with the model number. Common ADT panels include the Safewatch Pro, Safewatch Plus, and Command panels. Write down the full model number — for example, "ADT Safewatch Pro 6160" — because batteries are not universal across models.

Search for your model number plus "replacement battery" on the ADT website, Amazon, or electronics retailers like Best Buy. The battery will be listed with a part number (often starting with 6V or 12V, which refers to voltage). Order the battery before you start the replacement so you have it on hand. Shipping usually takes two to five business days.

If you cannot find the model number or the battery online, call ADT customer support with your account number and they will tell you which battery you need and the part number. They can also tell you whether your contract covers the cost.

Disarm the system and prepare the panel

Enter your security code on the keypad to disarm the system completely. The panel should show "System Disarmed" or a similar message. If the system is armed, the battery replacement may trigger an alarm or cause the panel to lose connection to the monitoring center.

Unplug the power cable from the back of the panel. This stops power from flowing to the battery while you work. The panel will run on the old battery for a few minutes, which is normal. If you have a laptop or portable charger nearby, you can use it to keep the panel powered during the swap, but it is not required — the process is fast enough that a brief power loss will not hurt anything.

Remove the old battery and install the new one

Open the panel door or access panel if it is not already open. Locate the battery — it is usually a rectangular block about the size of a deck of cards, mounted on a bracket or sitting in a slot. The battery has two wires or connectors attached to it, one red (positive) and one black (negative).

Disconnect the red wire first, then the black wire. This order matters because it prevents accidental short circuits. If the wires are soldered directly to the battery, you may need a small screwdriver or wire stripper to disconnect them; if they use connectors, they will pull straight off.

Remove the old battery from its bracket or slot. Insert the new battery in the same position, making sure it sits flat and find. Reconnect the black wire first, then the red wire. Double-check that both connections are tight and that the wires cannot touch any metal parts of the panel.

Power up the panel and test the backup

Plug the power cable back into the panel. The panel should power on and show its normal startup screen. If it does not, unplug it, check that both battery wires are connected firmly, and plug it back in.

Once the panel is on, disarm it again using your security code. The panel should show "System Disarmed" and the battery indicator (if your panel has one) should show that the battery is charging. Most panels take 24 to 48 hours to fully charge a new battery, so do not be alarmed if the indicator shows "charging" for a day or two.

To test that the backup is working, unplug the power cable for a few seconds while the system is disarmed. The panel should stay on and continue to display normally. If it shuts off, the battery may not be connected properly — plug the power back in and check the wires again.

Dispose of the old battery safely

Do not throw the old battery in the trash. Rechargeable batteries contain chemicals that can harm the environment and are illegal to dispose of in regular waste in most places. Take the old battery to a recycling center, an electronics retailer that accepts batteries (Best Buy, Staples, and Home Depot all take them), or ask ADT if they will take it when you call them.

Some retailers will take the old battery when you buy the new one, so ask before you leave the store.

When to call ADT instead of replacing it yourself

If your panel does not power on after you plug it back in, or if the battery indicator shows an error code, stop and call ADT support. The panel may have a deeper power issue that a battery swap will not fix. If you are uncomfortable opening the panel or disconnecting wires, ADT can send a technician to do it for you — the cost is usually $50 to $150 depending on your contract and location.

If your system is still under warranty, replacing the battery yourself may void it. Check your contract or call ADT before you start. Some contracts require that ADT perform all maintenance and repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often do I need to replace the battery?

Most ADT batteries last three to five years before they stop holding a charge. If your panel loses power during an outage and does not stay on, or if the battery indicator shows a low-battery warning, it is time to replace it. Some panels will beep or display a message when the battery is failing.

What happens if the battery dies and the power goes out?

Without a working battery, the panel will shut off if the power fails. This means your system cannot send alerts to the monitoring center or arm and disarm remotely. A dead battery is a security risk, so replace it as soon as you see a warning.

Can I use a different brand of battery?

No. You must use the battery designed for your specific ADT panel model. Using a different brand or voltage can damage the panel or cause it to malfunction. Always order by your panel model number.

Do I need to reprogram anything after I replace the battery?

No. The battery is a hardware component, not a software setting. Once you plug the panel back in, it will work exactly as it did before. Your security codes, sensor settings, and monitoring service will all remain the same.

What if I cannot find the model number on my panel?

Call ADT customer support with your account number and they will look up your panel model in their system. Have your account number ready when you call.