Tips For Troubleshooting Your Home Alarm System In Youngstown
False alarms and system malfunctions can be frustrating, and more importantly, could prevent your security system from working the way it should. Fortunately, most issues, from dead batteries to false alarms, are straightforward to correct. Take a look at our tips for troubleshooting your home alarm system in Youngstown. We’ll help you keep your family members protected and your system running the way it should.
Test Your Home Security System In Youngstown
One great way to troubleshoot your property’s security is to test it yourself! Newer systems let you put them in test mode to keep you from triggering an emergency response from monitoring agents. After moving to test mode, follow these steps:
- Activate your system as you typically would when you head out.
- Open a window or door protected by a contact sensor, or try to trigger another device. Shut the door or window once you’re done so it doesn’t trigger the alarm when you turn the system back on.
- Allow the alarm to sound for 60 seconds to make sure a message is sent to the security provider and an entry is created in the alarm system log.
- Proceed to test sensors as needed
- Review the alarm’s activity log to confirm proper function.
No need to worry, monitoring professionals can tell that your system is involved in a test. Just be sure to switch out of test mode when you’re done. It’s a good idea to test once a month or anytime you change your home’s internet or phone service.
Evaluate The Position And Condition Of Motion Sensors
Although an essential part of your alarm system, motion detectors are prone to false alarms. Do your part to prevent them with some easy troubleshooting.
- Perform a physical inspection. Are there objects that could move within range of the sensor, like drapery blown in a breeze?
- Is the sensor dirty? Cobwebs, dirt, and debris can lead to malfunctions. Make sure the face is clean.
- Does the motion detector offer pet immunity you can turn on? Some can be set to disregard pets up to 100 pounds.
- When was the battery replaced? A nearly depleted battery may affect performance or result in false alarms.
- Is the sensor pointing toward a heat source? Excessive heat from direct sun or a fireplace can set off an alarm.
Keep Batteries Ready And Pay Attention To Low Battery Warnings
One of the great things about the latest home security systems is that they’ll alert you when batteries are running low. If your system has a control panel or mobile app, you’ll usually find alerts there. Depending on the alarm, you might detect an intermittent beep when batteries are running out.
Contact sensors, smoke detectors, motion sensors, and other wireless devices have batteries that need to be replaced every year or two. It’s best to keep batteries ready and establish a replacement schedule. Top systems also come with a backup battery for the main control panel. This battery helps keep your system operating if you have a power outage and should recharge once power is restored. If it doesn’t, you will need to replace it.
Troubleshooting Is Effortless With ADT Home Security In Youngstown
As the top name in home security, ADT creates systems that offer unrivaled protection and functionality. Getting into test mode is simple through MyADT.com or the ADT+ app, and you’ll always receive notifications when a sensor battery is low. Reach out to Secure24 Alarm Systems, an authorized ADT dealer, to learn more and design a system ideal for your Youngstown home. Dial (330) 355-9086 or complete our form today!