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False alarms and system malfunctions can be frustrating, and more importantly, may prevent your security system from doing its job effectively. Luckily, most troubles, from dead batteries to false alarms, are straightforward to correct. Take a look at our tips for troubleshooting your home alarm system in Yakima. We’ll help keep your household protected and your system running smoothly.

Test Your Home Security System In Yakima

One of the most sensible ways to troubleshoot your property’s security is to test it yourself! Newer systems have a test mode so you don’t accidentally initiate an emergency call. After moving to test mode, do the following:

• Turn on your system as you normally would when leaving.
• Open a door or window protected by a contact sensor, or try to set off another device. Shut the door or window once you’re finished so it doesn’t trip the alarm when you get out of test mode.
• Let the alarm go off for 60 seconds to ensure communications with the security company and to create an entry in the alarm activity log.
• Proceed to test devices as you wish
• Check the alarm’s activity log to validate functionality.

Rest assured, monitoring professionals can tell that your system is undergoing a test. Be sure to switch off test mode when done. It’s smart to test once a month or anytime you adjust your home’s internet or phone service.

Inspect The Position And Condition Of Motion Detectors

Although an crucial part of your alarm system, motion detectors are notorious for false alarms. You can help prevent them with some easy troubleshooting.

• Perform a visual inspection. Is there something that could shift within the sensor’s detection area, like a curtain taken by a breeze?
• Is the sensor dirty? Cobwebs, dirt, and grime can cause poor performance. Check to confirm the sensor is clean.
• Does the motion detector have pet immunity you can activate? Some models can be programmed to disregard pets up to 100 pounds.
• When was the battery replaced? A low battery may impact performance or cause false alarms.
• Is a heat source impairing the sensor? Excess heat from direct sun or a fireplace can set off an alarm.

Keep Batteries Ready And Watch Out For Low Battery Notifications

One of the great advantages of new home security systems is that they’ll tell you when batteries are dying. If your system is equipped with a control panel or mobile app, you’ll often discover alerts there. Depending on your system, you might notice an occasional beep when batteries are low. 

Motion detectors, smoke detectors, contact sensors, and other wireless devices have batteries that need to be replaced every 1 to 2 years. It’s wise to keep batteries ready and create a replacement schedule. Some systems also have a backup battery for the central control panel. This backup helps keep your system operating if your power goes out and should recharge once power is back online. If it doesn’t, you will have to replace it.

Troubleshooting Is Effortless With ADT Home Security In Yakima 

As the leading name in home security, ADT creates systems that offer unrivaled protection and functionality. Switching to test mode is simple through the ADT+ app or MyADT.com, and you’ll always be sent notifications when a sensor battery is nearing depletion. Contact Secure24 Alarm Systems, an authorized ADT dealer, to find out more and design a system ideal for your Yakima home and family. Dial (509) 240-9777 or submit our form today!