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False alarms and system hiccups can be aggravating, and even more concerning, could prevent your home security system from working the way it should. Fortunately, most issues, from dead batteries to false alarms, are easy to remedy. Explore our recommendations for troubleshooting your home alarm system in Fort Worth. We’ll help you keep your family members shielded and your system operating as it should.

Test Your Home Security System In Fort Worth

One great way to troubleshoot your home’s security is to test it yourself! The latest systems have a test mode so you don’t accidentally trigger an emergency response. Once you’re in test mode, do the following:

• Activate your system as you typically would when you exit your home.
• Open a window or door that has a contact sensor, or try to set off another device. Shut the window or door once you’re finished so it doesn’t trip the alarm as you reactivate the system.
• Permit the alarm to go off for 60 seconds to make sure a signal is sent to the security provider and an entry is created in the alarm system log.
• Continue testing sensors as you wish
• Inspect the alarm’s activity log to validate proper function.

Rest assured, monitoring agents will be aware that your system is involved in a test. Be sure to turn test mode off when done. It’s smart to test monthly or whenever you make changes to your home’s phone or internet service.

Inspect The Placement And Condition Of Motion Detectors

Although an essential aspect of your alarm system, motion sensors are notorious for false alarms. You can help prevent them with some basic troubleshooting.

• Do a physical check. Are there things that could move within the path of the sensor, like a curtain taken by a breeze?
• Is the sensor covered in dust? Cobwebs, dirt, and grime can result in poor performance. Check to confirm the face is clean.
• Does the motion detector come with pet immunity you can enable? Some models can be programmed to ignore pets weighing as much as 100 pounds.
• When was the battery replaced? Low batteries may impact performance or cause false alarms.
• Is the sensor facing a source of heat? Excessive heat from a fireplace, direct sun, or something else can set off an alarm.

Keep Batteries On Hand And Look Out For Low Battery Signals

One of the great things about the latest home security systems is that they’ll notify you when batteries are getting low. If your system uses a control panel or app, you’ll often see alerts there. Depending on your alarm, you could notice an occasional beep when batteries are low. 

Motion detectors, smoke detectors, contact sensors, and other wireless devices have batteries that need to be replaced every year or two. It’s wise to keep batteries on hand and create a replacement schedule. Some systems also include a rechargeable backup battery for the central control panel. This backup battery helps keep your system running if you lose power and should charge back up once power is back online. If it doesn’t, you will need to replace it.

Troubleshooting Is Simple With ADT Home Security In Fort Worth 

As the leading name in home security, ADT creates systems that offer superior functionality and convenience. Accessing test mode is straightforward through MyADT.com or the ADT+ app, and you’ll always be sent updates when a battery is running low. Contact Secure24 Alarm Systems, an authorized ADT dealer, to learn more and design a system perfect for your Fort Worth home and family. Dial (817) 415-2313 or fill out our form today!