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System malfunctions and false alarms can be exasperating, and more importantly, might prevent your home security system from doing its job effectively. Fortunately, most troubles, from false alarms to dead batteries, are easy to correct. Check out our recommendations for troubleshooting your home alarm system in York. We’ll help keep your family safe and your system running smoothly.

Test Your Home Security System In York

One effective way to troubleshoot your property’s security is to test it yourself! Modern systems have a test mode so you don’t accidentally prompt an emergency response. Once in test mode, follow these steps:

• Turn on your system as you normally would when going 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 finished so it doesn’t trip the alarm as you leave test mode.
• Allow the alarm to resonate for 60 seconds to ensure communications with the security company and to create an entry in the alarm system log.
• Proceed to test equipment as you wish
• Check the alarm’s activity log to confirm that everything’s working.

No need to worry, monitoring specialists can tell that your system is being tested. Just make sure to turn test mode off when complete. It’s a good idea to test monthly or whenever you make changes to your home’s phone or internet service.

Check The Placement And Condition Of Motion Sensors

Although an crucial part of your alarm system, motion detectors are prone to false alarms. Prevent them with a few straightforward troubleshooting steps.

• Perform a physical check. Is there something that could move within the sensor’s detection zone, like a curtain taken by a breeze?
• Is the sensor covered in dust? Cobwebs, dirt, and grime can lead to malfunctions. Ensure the face is clean.
• Does the motion detector have pet immunity you can enable? Some can be programmed to ignore pets up to 100 pounds.
• When was the battery replaced? A low battery may affect performance or lead to false alarms.
• Is the sensor pointing toward a source of heat? Excessive heat from sunlight or a fireplace can cause an alarm.

Keep Batteries Ready And Watch Out For Low Battery Notifications

One helpful perk of new home security systems is that they’ll let you know when batteries are getting low. If your system uses a mobile app or control panel, you’ll often see notifications there. Depending on your alarm, you may hear an intermittent beep when batteries are low. 

Motion detectors, smoke detectors, contact sensors, and other wireless components have batteries that need to be replaced every 1 to 2 years. It’s a good idea to keep batteries on hand and create a replacement schedule. Top systems also come with a rechargeable backup battery for the primary control panel. This battery keeps your system operating if you lose power and should recharge once the electricity is working again. If it fails to recharge, you should replace it.

Troubleshooting Is Easy With ADT Home Security In York 

As the leading name in home security, ADT creates systems that supply superior functionality and protection. Accessing test mode is simple through the ADT+ app or MyADT.com, and you’ll always receive notifications when a battery is low. Contact Secure24 Alarm Systems, an authorized ADT dealer, to find out more and design a system perfect for your York home and family. Call (717) 256-1592 or fill out our form today!