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False alarms and system hiccups can be frustrating, and more importantly, might prevent your home security system from doing its job effectively. Fortunately, most issues, from dead batteries to false alarms, are straightforward to remedy. Take a look at our recommendations for troubleshooting your home alarm system in Fort Lauderdale. We’ll help you keep your family members shielded and your system operating the way it should.

Test Your Home Security System In Fort Lauderdale

One of the most effective ways to troubleshoot your property’s security is to test it yourself! The latest systems let you put them in test mode to avoid initiating an emergency call. Once you’re in test mode, follow these steps:

• Turn on your system as you normally would when you head out.
• Open a window or door that has a contact sensor, or try to trip something else. Shut the door or window so it doesn’t trigger the alarm when you switch the system back on.
• Permit the alarm to sound for 60 seconds to make sure a message is sent to the security provider and an entry is made in the alarm system log.
• Continue testing equipment as needed
• Check the alarm’s activity log to confirm proper function.

Rest assured, monitoring agents will be aware that your alarm system is involved in a test. Just be sure to turn test mode off when done. It’s a good idea to test every other month or anytime you make changes to your home’s internet or phone service.

Evaluate The Placement And Condition Of Motion Detectors

Although an crucial aspect of your alarm system, motion detectors are prone to false alarms. Do your part to prevent them with a few simple troubleshooting steps.

• Do a visual inspection. Are there objects that could shift within the sensor’s detection area, like drapery blown in a breeze?
• Is the sensor covered in dust? Cobwebs, dirt, and grime can cause poor performance. Make sure the face is clean.
• Does the motion detector come with pet immunity you can enable? Some models can be configured to ignore pets weighing up to 100 pounds.
• When was the battery replaced? A low battery may impact performance or lead to false alarms.
• Is a heat source impairing the sensor? Excessive heat from direct sun or a fireplace can cause an alarm.

Keep Batteries On Hand And Pay Attention To Low Battery Signals

One of the great advantages of the latest home security systems is that they’ll alert you when batteries are running low. If your system uses a mobile app or control panel, you’ll typically find messages there. Depending on your alarm, you may hear an intermittent beep when batteries are running out. 

Contact sensors, motion detectors, smoke detectors, and other wireless components have batteries that should be replaced every year or two. It’s a good idea to keep batteries around and set a replacement schedule. Top systems also have a backup battery for the main 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 Fort Lauderdale 

As the foremost name in home security, ADT builds systems that supply superior functionality and protection. Getting into test mode is straightforward through MyADT.com or the ADT+ app, and you’ll always receive alerts when a sensor battery is low. Get in touch with Secure24 Alarm Systems, an authorized ADT dealer, to find out more and design a system ideal for your Fort Lauderdale home. Place a call to (954) 688-4955 or complete our form today!