Categories

False alarms and system malfunctions can be aggravating, and even more concerning, might prevent your security system from working how it should. Luckily, most troubles, from dead batteries to false alarms, are easy to remedy. Explore our suggestions for troubleshooting your home alarm system in Bakersfield. We’ll help you keep your family members shielded and your system operating as it should.

Test Your Home Security System In Bakersfield

One great way to troubleshoot your home’s security is to test it! Newer systems allow you to put them in test mode to avoid initiating an emergency response. After moving to test mode, follow these steps:

• Turn on your system as you normally would when going out.
• Open a door or window that uses a contact sensor, or try to trip another device. Shut the window or door once you’re finished so it doesn’t prompt the alarm when you reactivate the system.
• Permit the alarm to go off for 60 seconds to make sure a signal is delivered to the security provider and an entry is created in the alarm activity log.
• Proceed to test sensors as needed
• Inspect the systems’s activity log to verify that everything’s working.

Rest assured, monitoring professionals can tell that your alarm system is being tested. Just be sure to turn test mode off when you’re done. It’s a good idea to test monthly or whenever you make changes to your home’s internet or phone connectivity.

Evaluate The Position And State Of Motion Detectors

Although an integral element of your alarm system, motion sensors are well known for false alarms. You can help prevent them with some easy troubleshooting.

• Do a visual check. Is there something that could move within the sensor’s detection zone, like a window treatment taken by a breeze?
• Is the sensor covered in dust? Dirt, cobwebs, and debris can lead to malfunctions. Ensure the device is clean.
• Does the motion detector offer pet immunity you can turn on? Some sensors can be programmed to ignore pets weighing as much as 100 pounds.
• When was the battery changed? Low batteries might impact performance or result in false alarms.
• Is the sensor aimed toward a heat source? Too much heat from sunlight or a fireplace can set off an alarm.

Keep Batteries Ready And Watch Out For Low Battery Warnings

One helpful perk of new home security systems is that they’ll let you know when batteries are dying. If your system has a control panel or mobile app, you’ll typically find alerts there. Depending on your system, you could notice an occasional beep when batteries are low. 

Motion detectors, smoke detectors, contact sensors, and other wireless devices have batteries that need to be replaced every 1 to 2 years. It’s best to keep batteries around and set a replacement schedule. Some systems also come with a backup battery for the main control panel. This backup keeps your system operating if you have a power outage and should charge back up once power is back online. If it doesn’t recharge, you will have to replace it.

Troubleshooting Is Effortless With ADT Home Security In Bakersfield 

As the top name in home security, ADT builds systems that provide superior functionality and protection. Accessing test mode is straightforward through MyADT.com or the ADT+ app, and you’ll always be sent updates when a battery is low. Contact Secure24 Alarm Systems, an authorized ADT dealer, to get more details and design a system ideal for your Bakersfield home and family. Call (661) 231-6886 or submit our form today!