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System malfunctions and false alarms can be frustrating, and even more concerning, could prevent your security system from working the way it should. Luckily, most problems, from false alarms to dead batteries, are straightforward to correct. Explore our recommendations for troubleshooting your home alarm system in Reno. We’ll help keep your family safeguarded and your system operating properly.

Test Your Home Security System In Reno

One of the most effective ways to troubleshoot your home’s security is to test it yourself! Modern systems have a test mode so you don’t by accident trigger an emergency response. After switching to test mode, take these steps:

• Arm your system as you would when you exit your home.
• Open a door or window that has a contact sensor, or try to set off something else. Close the door or window once you’re done so it doesn’t prompt the alarm when you leave test mode.
• Permit the alarm to sound for 60 seconds to ensure communications with the security company and to produce an entry in the alarm activity log.
• Proceed to test devices as you wish
• Inspect the alarm’s activity log to validate that everything’s working.

Don’t worry, monitoring specialists can see that your system is involved in a test. Be sure to switch off test mode when you’re done. It’s wise to test once a month or anytime you make changes to your home’s internet or phone connectivity.

Inspect The Positioning And State Of Motion Detectors

Although an crucial aspect of your alarm system, motion sensors are notorious for false alarms. Do your part to prevent them with some basic troubleshooting.

• Perform a visual check. Is there something that could move within range of the sensor, like a window treatment blown in a breeze?
• Is the sensor dirty? Cobwebs, dirt, and debris can cause issues. Make sure the device is clean.
• Does the motion detector offer pet immunity you can enable? Some sensors can be configured to disregard pets up to 100 pounds.
• When was the battery replaced? Low batteries can affect performance or cause false alarms.
• Is the sensor pointing toward a source of heat? Too much heat from direct sun or a fireplace can cause an alarm.

Keep Batteries On Hand And Pay Attention To Low Battery Warnings

One helpful perk of new home security systems is that they’ll alert you when batteries are dying. If your system is equipped with a control panel or app, you’ll often find messages there. Depending on your alarm, you could notice an intermittent beep when batteries are running out. 

Motion detectors, smoke detectors, contact sensors, and other wireless tools have batteries that should be replaced every year or two. It’s wise to keep batteries ready and establish a replacement schedule. Some systems also come with a rechargeable backup battery for the primary control panel. This backup keeps your system running if you have a power outage and should charge back up once power is back online. If it doesn’t, you should replace it.

Troubleshooting Is Easy With ADT Home Security In Reno 

As the leading name in home security, ADT creates systems that provide unrivaled protection and functionality. Getting into test mode is simple through the ADT+ app or MyADT.com, and you’ll always get updates when a battery is low. Contact Secure24 Alarm Systems, an authorized ADT dealer, to learn more and design a system ideal for your Reno home and family. Call (775) 316-7001 or fill out our form today!