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System malfunctions and false alarms can be frustrating, and even more concerning, may prevent your security system from working the way it should. Luckily, most issues, from dead batteries to false alarms, are straightforward to remedy. Check out our recommendations for troubleshooting your home alarm system in Austin. We’ll help you keep your family members safe and your system operating the way it should.

Test Your Home Security System In Austin

One of the most effective ways to troubleshoot your property’s security is to test it! Modern systems let you place them in test mode to avoid prompting an emergency response from monitoring agents. After switching to test mode, take these steps:

• Turn on your system as you typically would when heading out.
• Open a window or door that has a contact sensor, or try to trip another sensor. Shut the window or door once you’re done so it doesn’t trip the alarm as you get out of test mode.
• Permit the alarm to sound for 60 seconds to ensure communications with the security provider and to create an entry in the alarm activity log.
• Proceed to test devices as you wish
• Review the systems’s activity log to confirm proper function.

No need to worry, monitoring specialists can see that your system is undergoing a test. Just make sure to turn test mode off when complete. It’s a good idea to test every other month or anytime you adjust your home’s phone or internet connectivity.

Evaluate The Positioning And State Of Motion Detectors

Although an integral part of your alarm system, motion detectors are notorious for false alarms. Prevent them with some basic troubleshooting.

• Perform a physical check. Is there anything that could shift within the sensor’s detection zone, like a curtain blown in a breeze?
• Is the sensor covered in dust? Dirt, cobwebs, and debris can result in poor performance. Check to confirm the sensor is clean.
• Does the motion detector have pet immunity you can enable? Some sensors can be programmed to ignore pets weighing as much as 100 pounds.
• When was the battery replaced? Low batteries may affect performance or cause false alarms.
• Is the sensor aimed toward a heat source? Too much heat from a fireplace, direct sun, or something else can set off an alarm.

Keep Batteries On Hand And Pay Attention To Low Battery Warnings

One helpful benefit of modern home security systems is that they’ll alert you when batteries are running low. If your system is equipped with a mobile app or control panel, you’ll typically discover notifications there. Depending on your system, you might hear an occasional beep when batteries are running out. 

Motion detectors, smoke detectors, contact sensors, and other wireless devices have batteries that will have to be replaced every so often. It’s best to keep batteries on hand and establish a replacement schedule. Top systems also include a backup battery for the main control panel. This backup battery keeps your system running if your power goes out and should recharge once power is restored. If it doesn’t recharge, you will have to replace it.

Troubleshooting Is Effortless With ADT Home Security In Austin 

As the leading name in home security, ADT creates systems that provide superior protection and functionality. Switching to test mode is straightforward through MyADT.com or the ADT+ app, and you’ll always receive updates when a battery is low. Contact Secure24 Alarm Systems, an authorized ADT dealer, to learn more and design a system perfect for your Austin home and family. Dial (512) 641-0712 or fill out our form today!