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False alarms and system hiccups can be frustrating, and more importantly, could prevent your security system from working how it should. Fortunately, most troubles, from dead batteries to false alarms, are simple to fix. Take a look at our recommendations for troubleshooting your home alarm system in Athens. We’ll help you keep your household shielded and your system operating as it should.

Test Your Home Security System In Athens

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

• Turn on your system as you normally would when you leave.
• Open a window or door that has a contact sensor, or try to set off something else. Shut the door or window so it doesn’t trigger the alarm as you get out of test mode.
• Allow the alarm to resonate for 60 seconds to make sure a transmission is sent to the security provider and an entry is made in the alarm activity log.
• Proceed to test sensors as needed
• Check the systems’s activity log to verify proper function.

Don’t worry, monitoring agents can see that your system is undergoing a test. Be sure to switch out of test mode when done. It’s a good idea to test monthly or whenever you make changes to your home’s phone or internet provider.

Inspect The Position And State Of Motion Detectors

Although an crucial aspect of your alarm system, motion sensors are well known for false alarms. You can help prevent them with a few straightforward troubleshooting steps.

• Do a physical inspection. Are there items that could shift within the sensor’s detection range, like drapery caught in a breeze?
• Is the sensor clean? Dirt, cobwebs, and debris can lead to malfunctions. Check to confirm the sensor is clean.
• Does the motion detector offer pet immunity you can enable? Some sensors can be programmed to ignore pets up to 100 pounds.
• When was the battery changed? Low batteries can impact performance or result in false alarms.
• Is a heat source affecting the sensor? Excessive heat from a fireplace, direct sun, or something else can trigger an alarm.

Keep Batteries On Hand And Look Out For Low Battery Warnings

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

Contact sensors, smoke detectors, motion sensors, and other wireless devices have batteries that need to be replaced every so often. It’s a good idea to keep batteries ready and set a replacement schedule. Many systems also come with a rechargeable backup battery for the primary control panel. This backup battery helps keep your system operating if you lose power and should charge back up once power is restored. If it fails to recharge, you will need to replace it.

Troubleshooting Is Effortless With ADT Home Security In Athens 

As the foremost name in home security, ADT creates systems that provide superior functionality and protection. Accessing test mode is easy through the ADT+ app or MyADT.com, and you’ll always be sent notifications when a battery is low. Contact Secure24 Alarm Systems, an authorized ADT dealer, to find out more and design a system ideal for your Athens home. Dial (706) 397-7344 or complete our form today!