Home security systems like ADT are designed to keep you and your family safe by monitoring your property around the clock. But sometimes, you may need to temporarily turn off or deactivate the system. Whether it’s for routine maintenance, false alarms, moving to a new home, or simply deciding to stop the service, knowing how to properly turn off your ADT home system can save you time and frustration.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different ways to turn off your ADT alarm system, the steps depending on the type of system you have, potential troubleshooting tips, and important considerations before shutting it down completely.

Why Would You Want to Turn Off an ADT System?

ADT systems are powerful, but there are several situations when you might want to disable them:

  1. False Alarms – If the alarm goes off accidentally (for example, due to a pet, open window, or user error).
  2. Maintenance or Repairs – When replacing batteries, fixing sensors, or conducting electrical work.
  3. Moving Out – If you’re relocating and no longer need monitoring at your current home.
  4. System Upgrade – If you are switching to a newer ADT system or another security provider.
  5. Service Cancellation – If you decide to end your ADT contract.

Understanding How ADT Systems Work

Before you try to turn off your ADT system, it’s important to understand how it functions:

  • Control Panel – The brain of the system, where you can arm, disarm, and configure settings.
  • Keypad or Touchscreen – Your main interface for entering passcodes and commands.
  • Sensors & Detectors – Monitor doors, windows, and motion.
  • Monitoring Center – ADT’s central station receives alerts if alarms are triggered.

Most ADT systems are programmed to notify the monitoring center if tampered with or powered down. That means simply unplugging it may not fully disable the system without triggering alerts.

Step-by-Step: How to Turn Off an ADT System

The exact method depends on your system model (traditional hardwired, wireless, or ADT Pulse/Command). Here are the main approaches:

1. Disarm Using Your Code

  • Go to the keypad.
  • Enter your 4-digit security code.
  • Press the “Disarm” button.
  • Wait for confirmation on the display (usually “System Disarmed”).

This is the simplest and most common way to temporarily turn off alarms.

2. Powering Down the System (Completely Turning Off)

If you want to shut down the system entirely:

  • Step 1: Disconnect AC Power
    Locate the power cord connected to your wall outlet or circuit. Unplug it.

  • Step 2: Remove the Backup Battery
    Open the panel (you may need a screwdriver). Disconnect the battery terminals inside.

Once both the main power and backup battery are disconnected, the ADT system will power down.

⚠️ Important: Doing this may trigger a “tamper” signal to ADT monitoring unless you’ve notified them beforehand.

3. Turn Off Specific Zones

Sometimes you don’t want to disable the whole system, just certain sensors:

  • Access the keypad menu.
  • Enter your code.
  • Navigate to “Bypass Zone.”
  • Select the sensor/zone you want to disable.

This allows you to keep your system active while preventing false alarms in specific areas.

4. Using the ADT Pulse or Command App

For newer ADT systems:

  • Open the ADT app on your smartphone.
  • Log in with your credentials.
  • Tap “Disarm” to remotely turn off the alarm system.
  • Check notifications to confirm successful disarm.

How to Turn Off an ADT Alarm During a False Alarm?

If your ADT alarm is blaring, here’s what to do quickly:

  1. Enter your security code at the keypad.
  2. Press the “Off” or “Disarm” button.
  3. If it continues, press the code again, followed by “#.”
  4. If the monitoring center calls, confirm it was a false alarm.

Tip: Always memorize your passcode and keep it handy to avoid unnecessary emergency responses.

Troubleshooting: When the System Won’t Turn Off

Sometimes, your ADT system may not respond to normal disarming. Here’s what to try:

  • Wrong Code: Double-check you’re using the correct user code.
  • Low Battery: The system may malfunction if backup batteries are dying—replace them.
  • Frozen Keypad: Try rebooting by unplugging and reconnecting power.
  • App Issues: If using ADT Pulse, check your Wi-Fi connection or reinstall the app.
  • Persistent Beeping: Enter your code and press “Off” twice.

If nothing works, contact ADT customer support for assistance.

Special Cases: Turning Off ADT Without Code

If you’ve forgotten your passcode, your options are limited. You can:

  • Call ADT Customer Support – They may verify your identity and reset the code.
  • Manual Power Down – Unplug AC and disconnect the battery (triggers tamper alerts).
  • Technician Visit – In some cases, only a technician can reprogram/reset the system.

⚠️ Warning: Attempting to tamper with the system without the proper code can cause continuous alarms or alerts to ADT.

Cancelling ADT Monitoring vs. Turning Off Equipment

Turning off the equipment doesn’t automatically cancel your ADT service. If you’re done with ADT:

  1. Call ADT at 1-800-ADT-ASAP (1-800-238-2727).
  2. Request cancellation of the monitoring service.
  3. Follow instructions to return or leave equipment (depends on contract).
  4. Pay any applicable cancellation fees if under contract.

Only after canceling monitoring will you stop being billed monthly.

Safety Precautions Before Turning Off Your ADT System

  • Notify ADT before powering down to avoid false dispatches.
  • Keep your passcode ready.
  • Inform family members so they don’t panic when the alarm goes off.
  • Never disable your system for long periods unless necessary—you’ll lose protection.

Should You Completely Turn Off Your ADT System?

While turning off your ADT system is possible, it’s not always the best choice. Consider these alternatives:

  • Temporary Disarm – Best for short maintenance or false alarms.
  • Zone Bypass – Ideal if only one sensor is faulty.
  • System Upgrade – If your system is outdated, ADT can install a newer one.
  • Suspend Monitoring – If you’re away, ADT sometimes allows short-term suspension.

Final Thoughts

Turning off an ADT system can be straightforward if you follow the proper steps. Whether you just need to disarm it temporarily, shut it down for maintenance, or fully cancel your monitoring service, the key is to know your system type, use the correct passcodes, and notify ADT if required.

If you’re looking to switch to another security provider or want to upgrade, consider contacting ADT directly—they may provide better equipment, discounts, or customized options to suit your needs.

Your home security is a valuable investment, so only turn off your ADT system when necessary, and always make sure you have an alternative safety plan in place.