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False alarms and system hiccups can be aggravating, and even more concerning, might prevent your security system from doing its job effectively. Luckily, most troubles, from dead batteries to false alarms, are easy to correct. Take a look at our suggestions for troubleshooting your home alarm system in Phoenix. We’ll help keep your family protected and your system operating properly.

Test Your Home Security System In Phoenix

One great way to troubleshoot your property’s security is to test it yourself! Newer systems let you place them in test mode to prevent you from triggering an emergency call. After switching to test mode, follow these steps:

• Activate your system as you typically would when you exit your home.
• Open a window or door protected by a contact sensor, or test other devices. Close the door or window so it doesn’t trigger the alarm as you turn the system back on.
• Permit the alarm to go off for 60 seconds to make sure a signal is dispatched to the security provider and an entry is made in the alarm system log.
• Continue testing equipment as needed
• Inspect the alarm’s activity log to verify proper function.

Rest assured, monitoring agents will know that your system is involved in a test. Just make sure to turn test mode off when done. It’s wise to test monthly or anytime you change your home’s internet or phone service.

Evaluate The Position And Condition Of Motion Detectors

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

• Do a physical check. Is there anything that could shift within the path of the sensor, like drapery caught in a breeze?
• Is the sensor covered in dust? Dirt, cobwebs, and debris can result in malfunctions. Ensure the device is clean.
• Does the motion detector have pet immunity you can turn on? Some sensors can be programmed to disregard pets weighing as much as 100 pounds.
• When was the battery last replaced? Low batteries can affect performance or cause false alarms.
• Is the sensor aimed toward a heat source? Excess heat from direct sun or a fireplace can cause an alarm.

Keep Batteries Ready And Look Out For Low Battery Warnings

One helpful perk of modern home security systems is that they’ll let you know when batteries are dying. If your system has a mobile app or control panel, you’ll typically discover notifications there. Depending on the alarm, you might notice an intermittent beep when batteries are getting low. 

Motion detectors, smoke detectors, contact sensors, and other wireless components have batteries that should be replaced every 1 to 2 years. It’s a good idea to keep batteries ready and establish a replacement schedule. Some systems also include a rechargeable backup battery for the central control panel. This backup helps keep your system operating if you have a power outage and should recharge once power is back online. If it fails to recharge, you will have to replace it.

Troubleshooting Is Easy With ADT Home Security In Phoenix 

As the top name in home security, ADT builds systems that supply unsurpassed functionality and convenience. Switching to test mode is easy through the ADT+ app or MyADT.com, and you’ll always receive alerts when a battery is nearing depletion. Contact Secure24 Alarm Systems, an authorized ADT dealer, to find out more and design a system perfectly suited to your Phoenix home and family. Call (602) 649-6096 or submit our form today!