Adding a security alarm system is one of the best ways to protect your home. However, if you’re not performing routine maintenance, you’re putting your property at risk. A neglected alarm system could malfunction, leaving you vulnerable to crime. It could also cause a delay in an emergency response, and put your family and property at risk. Failure to maintain your alarm may also lead to higher insurance premiums, false alarms, and privacy breaches. Fortunately, we’ve written this guide detailing the frequency and steps to maintain and test your system so you can protect what matters most.
Understand Your Security System
In order to maintain your security system, it’s important to know which one is installed in your home. The three most common types are wired, wireless, and smart systems. You’ll also want to familiarize yourself with your system’s components, which include sensors, a control panel, keypads, etc. To do this, read the manufacturer’s manual or installer’s guide for a comprehensive overview of your system’s specifications.
Regular Maintenance Checklist
Most people don’t think about their security system until they receive a low battery or other fault notification, but in reality, you should test it every month. Here is a regular maintenance checklist you can follow to ensure your alarm security system functions properly.
- Inspect the Physical Components
Every system includes window, door, and motion sensors. These components alert you when there is movement or when someone enters your home. Routinely looking for signs of wear, corrosion, or loose connections is the best way to ensure they continue working. - Test and Replace the Batteries
Depending on your system, you can either check the batteries manually or through the control panel or app. On average, you’ll need to replace the batteries every one to two years, but it could be sooner if your system has a higher energy output. - Clean Sensors and Equipment
Dust and clean your sensors and control panel monthly with a dry cloth to keep them clean and clear of any obstruction. - Check for Software or Firmware Updates
Staying current on the latest software and firmware will ensure your security system functions properly. Routinely check for available updates on smart systems or connected apps.
How to Test Your Alarm System
Testing your security system is a crucial part of your routine maintenance plan.
- Notify Your Monitoring Service
Before testing your system, notify your monitoring service to let them know what you’re doing. This step is essential for avoiding false alarms or dispatches, which could be your financial responsibility.
- Perform a Walk Test
Place your system in “Test Mode” and trigger each sensor, checking to see if it responds.
- Test Alarm Sounds and Notifications
Check to see that the siren is loud and clear, and confirm that you receive call notifications or mobile alerts.
How Often Should You Maintain and Test?
You should perform routine testing on your security system every month with a bi-annual deep maintenance check. We also recommend having a professional annual inspection to ensure the entire system is running smoothly.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Here is a list of some of the most common security systems and how to fix them.
- False Alarms – False alarms can be caused by user error, environmental factors, or system malfunctions. Be sure all users are familiar with the system, clean and secure all sensors, and contact a professional if you believe the system isn’t working properly.
- Sensors not responding – You may need to reset or replace the sensors if they aren’t responding.
- Lost Connection – If you lose the connection between the system and the app or monitoring sensor, you should first check the WiFi or internet, or reboot the panel.
- When to Call a Professional
If your system shows signs of a malfunction, you should contact a professional. They have the expertise to identify the problem and fix it quickly without causing further damage. Be sure to choose a qualified technician with experience and training with your specific system.
Routine maintenance on your security system will keep it running smoothly and ensure your home is protected. This step-by-step guide makes the process easy. Test your system this week and protect what matters most. Tekin Systems is proud to offer cutting-edge security solutions; contact us today for your free estimate.