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False alarms and system hiccups can be exasperating, and even more concerning, could prevent your security system from working how it should. Thankfully, most problems, from dead batteries to false alarms, are straightforward to fix. Check out our suggestions for troubleshooting your home alarm system in Wilmington. We’ll help you keep your household protected and your system operating as it should.

Test Your Home Security System In Wilmington

One of the best ways to troubleshoot your property’s security is to test it yourself! Newer systems have a test mode so you don’t accidentally initiate an emergency call. After moving to test mode, do the following:

• Arm your system as you would when heading out.
• Open a door or window that has a contact sensor, or test other devices. Close the door or window once you’re finished so it doesn’t trip the alarm as you switch the system back on.
• Allow the alarm to go off for 60 seconds to make sure a transmission is dispatched to the security company and an entry is created in the alarm activity log.
• Proceed to test devices as you wish
• Review the alarm’s activity log to verify functionality.

Don’t worry, monitoring agents can tell that your system is undergoing a test. Be sure to turn test mode off when you’re done. It’s smart to test monthly or anytime you make changes to your home’s internet or phone service.

Evaluate The Positioning And Condition Of Motion Detectors

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

• Perform a visual check. Is there anything that could move within the sensor’s detection zone, like drapery caught in a breeze?
• Is the sensor dirty? Cobwebs, dirt, and debris can lead to malfunctions. Check to confirm the sensor is clean.
• Does the motion detector have pet immunity you can enable? Some models can be set to ignore pets weighing up to 100 pounds.
• When was the battery replaced? Low batteries might affect performance or cause false alarms.
• Is a heat source impacting the sensor? Excess heat from direct sun or a fireplace can cause an alarm.

Keep Batteries Ready And Watch Out For Low Battery Signals

One helpful benefit of modern home security systems is that they’ll notify you when batteries are getting low. If your system uses a app or control panel, you’ll typically see notifications there. Depending on the alarm, you may detect an intermittent beep when batteries are getting low. 

Contact sensors, motion detectors, smoke detectors, and other wireless devices have batteries that should be replaced every 1 to 2 years. It’s wise to keep batteries around and set a replacement schedule. Many systems also come with a backup battery for the main control panel. This backup battery helps keep your system functioning if you lose power and should recharge itself once power is restored. If it doesn’t, you should replace it.

Troubleshooting Is Effortless With ADT Home Security In Wilmington 

As the top name in home security, ADT builds systems that provide superior functionality and convenience. Accessing test mode is easy through MyADT.com or the ADT+ app, and you’ll always receive notifications when a sensor battery is low. Reach out to Secure24 Alarm Systems, an authorized ADT dealer, to find out more and design a system perfect for your Wilmington home. Place a call to (910) 263-6334 or complete our form today!