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False alarms and system malfunctions can be frustrating, and more importantly, could prevent your security system from doing its job effectively. Fortunately, most issues, from dead batteries to false alarms, are simple to fix. Take a look at our recommendations for troubleshooting your home alarm system in Gainesville. We’ll help keep your family members protected and your system operating smoothly.

Test Your Home Security System In Gainesville

One effective way to troubleshoot your property’s security is to test it! Newer systems permit you to put them in test mode to avoid prompting an emergency response from monitoring agents. Once in test mode, take these steps:

• Turn on your system as you normally would when you exit your home.
• Open a window or door that has a contact sensor, or try to trigger another sensor. Close the door or window once you’re done so it doesn’t prompt the alarm as you leave test mode.
• Permit the alarm to resonate for 60 seconds to make sure a signal is sent to the security provider and an entry is created in the alarm activity log.
• Continue testing equipment as you wish
• Inspect the system activity log to confirm proper function.

Don’t worry, monitoring professionals can see that your system is involved in a test. Just be sure to switch out of test mode when you’re done. It’s wise to test once a month or whenever you change your home’s phone or internet provider.

Check The Placement And State Of Motion Sensors

Although an integral part of your alarm system, motion detectors are prone to false alarms. You can help prevent them with a few simple troubleshooting steps.

• Conduct a physical inspection. Is there something that could move within range of the sensor, like drapery blown in a breeze?
• Is the sensor covered in dust? Dirt, cobwebs, and debris can result in issues. Make sure the sensor is clean.
• Does the motion detector have pet immunity you can turn on? Some sensors can be configured to disregard pets weighing up to 100 pounds.
• When was the battery last replaced? A low battery can impact performance or cause false alarms.
• Is the sensor facing a heat source? Excessive heat from direct sun or a fireplace can trigger an alarm.

Keep Batteries On Hand And Pay Attention To Low Battery Signals

One helpful benefit of new home security systems is that they’ll notify you when batteries are running low. If your system is equipped with a smartphone app or control panel, you’ll often find messages there. Depending on your system, you might hear an occasional beep when batteries are getting low. 

Motion sensors, contact sensors, smoke detectors, and other wireless components have batteries that will have to be replaced every year or two. It’s a good idea to keep batteries around and create a replacement schedule. Top systems also come with a backup battery for the primary control panel. This backup battery helps keep your system operating if your power goes out and should charge back up once power is restored. If it doesn’t, you will have to replace it.

Troubleshooting Is Effortless With ADT Home Security In Gainesville 

As the top name in home security, ADT builds systems that supply unrivaled protection and functionality. Switching to test mode is straightforward through the ADT+ app or MyADT.com, and you’ll always receive updates when a sensor battery is low. Contact Secure24 Alarm Systems, an authorized ADT dealer, to get more details and design a system perfectly suited to your Gainesville home. Dial (352) 325-7286 or complete our form today!