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False alarms and system malfunctions can be exasperating, and more importantly, could prevent your security system from doing its job effectively. Fortunately, most troubles, from false alarms to dead batteries, are simple to correct. Take a look at our recommendations for troubleshooting your home alarm system in Spokane. We’ll help you keep your household shielded and your system running as it should.

Test Your Home Security System In Spokane

One of the best ways to troubleshoot your home’s security is to test it! Newer systems have a test mode so you don’t by accident prompt an emergency response. After moving to test mode, follow these steps:

• Turn on your system as you would when you head out.
• Open a window or door that uses a contact sensor, or try to set off another device. Close the window or door once you’re finished so it doesn’t prompt the alarm as you switch out of test mode.
• Let the alarm resonate for 60 seconds to ensure communications with the security provider and to produce an entry in the alarm system log.
• Continue testing equipment as needed
• Inspect the systems’s activity log to validate functionality.

No need to worry, monitoring agents can see that your system is being tested. Just be sure to switch out of test mode when you’re done. It’s smart to test every other month or anytime you make changes to your home’s phone or internet connectivity.

Evaluate The Position And State Of Motion Sensors

Although an integral element of your alarm system, motion detectors are prone to false alarms. Do your part to prevent them with some simple troubleshooting.

• Perform a physical inspection. Is there something that could move within the sensor’s detection zone, like a window treatment blown in a breeze?
• Is the sensor dirty? Cobwebs, dirt, and debris can result in issues. Ensure the sensor is clean.
• Does the motion detector have pet immunity you can turn on? Some can be set to ignore pets weighing up to 100 pounds.
• When was the battery last replaced? Low batteries can impact performance or lead to false alarms.
• Is the sensor aimed toward a source of heat? Too much heat from direct sun or a fireplace can trigger an alarm.

Keep Batteries Ready And Watch Out For Low Battery Warnings

One of the great aspects of modern home security systems is that they’ll notify you when batteries are running low. If your system has a app or control panel, you’ll often discover messages there. Depending on your system, you might hear an occasional beep when batteries are low. 

Motion sensors, contact sensors, smoke detectors, and other wireless devices have batteries that will have to be replaced every 1 to 2 years. It’s wise to keep batteries around and set a replacement schedule. Many systems also include a rechargeable backup battery for the central control panel. This backup helps keep your system running if you have a power outage and should recharge once the electricity is working again. If it fails to recharge, you will have to replace it.

Troubleshooting Is Easy With ADT Home Security In Spokane 

As the top name in home security, ADT builds systems that provide superior functionality and convenience. Accessing test mode is simple through MyADT.com or the ADT+ app, and you’ll always receive notifications when a battery is low. Get in touch with Secure24 Alarm Systems, an authorized ADT dealer, to learn more and design a system perfectly suited to your Spokane home. Dial (509) 240-8651 or complete our form today!