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System malfunctions and false alarms can be aggravating, and even worse, could prevent your home security system from working the way it should. Fortunately, most issues, from false alarms to dead batteries, are straightforward to remedy. Explore our recommendations for troubleshooting your home alarm system in Washington, DC. We’ll help you keep your family members shielded and your system operating smoothly.

Test Your Home Security System In Washington, DC

One of the most effective ways to troubleshoot your property’s security is to test it! The latest systems have a test mode so you don’t by accident initiate an emergency call. Once in test mode, take these steps:

• Activate your system as you would when leaving.
• Open a window or door protected by a contact sensor, or try to trigger another device. Shut the door or window so it doesn’t trigger the alarm when you get out of test mode.
• Let the alarm resonate for 60 seconds to make sure a signal is sent to the security company and an entry is made in the alarm system log.
• Proceed to test equipment as you wish
• Review the system activity log to confirm proper function.

No need to worry, monitoring agents will be able to see that your system is being tested. Just be sure to switch off test mode when done. It’s a good idea to test monthly or whenever you adjust your home’s phone or internet connectivity.

Evaluate The Placement And State Of Motion Detectors

Although an integral part of your alarm system, motion sensors are prone to false alarms. Prevent them with a few simple troubleshooting steps.

• Perform a physical check. Is there anything that could shift within the sensor’s detection area, like a window treatment blown in a breeze?
• Is the sensor covered in dust? Dirt, cobwebs, and debris can lead to poor performance. Make sure the device is clean.
• Does the motion detector have pet immunity you can turn on? Some models can be configured to disregard pets weighing up to 100 pounds.
• When was the battery last replaced? A low battery can affect performance or result in false alarms.
• Is the sensor facing a heat source? Excess heat from sunlight or a fireplace can trigger an alarm.

Keep Batteries Ready And Look Out For Low Battery Notifications

One helpful perk of new home security systems is that they’ll alert you when batteries are dying. If your system is equipped with a mobile app or control panel, you’ll often see alerts there. Depending on your system, you could notice an intermittent beep when batteries are running out. 

Motion detectors, smoke detectors, contact sensors, and other wireless devices have batteries that should be replaced every 1 to 2 years. It’s best to keep batteries ready and set a replacement schedule. Top systems also include a rechargeable backup battery for the central control panel. This backup helps keep your system running if you have a power outage and should recharge once power is restored. If it fails to recharge, you will have to replace it.

Troubleshooting Is Effortless With ADT Home Security In Washington, DC 

As the leading name in home security, ADT designs systems that provide unsurpassed protection and functionality. Accessing test mode is straightforward through MyADT.com or the ADT+ app, and you’ll always get updates when a battery is low. Get in touch with Secure24 Alarm Systems, an authorized ADT dealer, to learn more and design a system perfect for your Washington, DC home. Place a call to (202) 221-4066 or submit our form today!