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System malfunctions and false alarms can be frustrating, and more importantly, might prevent your security system from doing its job effectively. Thankfully, most problems, from dead batteries to false alarms, are simple to fix. Take a look at our tips for troubleshooting your home alarm system in Charleston. We’ll help you keep your family protected and your system operating properly.

Test Your Home Security System In Charleston

One of the most sensible ways to troubleshoot your home’s security is to test it yourself! Newer systems have a test mode so you don’t accidentally trigger an emergency response. Once you’re in test mode, follow these steps:

• Arm your system as you would when you head out.
• Open a door or window that has a contact sensor, or try to trip another sensor. Close the door or window once you’re finished so it doesn’t trigger the alarm when you turn the system back on.
• Let the alarm sound for 60 seconds to make sure a transmission is delivered to the security provider and an entry is made in the alarm activity log.
• Continue testing equipment as you wish
• Review the alarm’s activity log to confirm functionality.

No need to worry, monitoring specialists will be able to see that your alarm system is involved in a test. Be sure to switch off test mode when done. It’s smart to test monthly or anytime you change your home’s phone or internet service.

Evaluate The Positioning And State Of Motion Sensors

Although an integral aspect of your alarm system, motion sensors are well known for false alarms. Do your part to prevent them with some easy troubleshooting.

• Conduct a physical check. Is there something that could move within the sensor’s detection zone, like a window treatment taken by a breeze?
• Is the sensor clean? Grime, dirt, and cobwebs can lead to malfunctions. Check to confirm the device is clean.
• Does the motion detector come with pet immunity you can activate? Some sensors can be set to ignore pets up to 100 pounds.
• When was the battery last replaced? Low batteries might affect performance or result in false alarms.
• Is the sensor facing a source of heat? Excess heat from sunlight or a fireplace can cause an alarm.

Keep Batteries On Hand And Look Out For Low Battery Signals

One helpful aspect of modern home security systems is that they’ll notify you when batteries are getting low. If your system is equipped with a control panel or mobile app, you’ll typically discover notifications there. Depending on the alarm, you could detect an occasional beep when batteries are low. 

Motion detectors, smoke detectors, contact sensors, and other wireless components have batteries that will have to be replaced every year or two. It’s a good idea to keep batteries on hand and create a replacement schedule. Many systems also have a rechargeable backup battery for the primary control panel. This backup battery helps keep your system functioning if you lose power and should recharge itself once the electricity is working again. If it doesn’t, you should replace it.

Troubleshooting Is Easy With ADT Home Security In Charleston 

As the foremost name in home security, ADT creates systems that supply unsurpassed protection and functionality. Switching to test mode is easy through the ADT+ app or MyADT.com, and you’ll always receive updates when a battery is low. Get in touch with Secure24 Alarm Systems, an authorized ADT dealer, to learn more and design a system ideal for your Charleston home. Dial (843) 305-8663 or submit our form today!