Frequently Asked Questions

Sales Questions

Q: To get a monitored security system, do I need a land phone line?
A: No, a monitored system needs to have a form of communication to the response center. However, we have cell modules that can send the information through the cellular air waves. We also use this technology as a back-up to the existing phone line, if desired. A small charge exists for this module, but it is still cheaper than an average land line!
Q: What is the average cost of a monitored home security system?
A: It is difficult to answer this question because all homes and businesses are different, and some people want the system to do different things, such as monitoring temperature, water or fire. Heartland Security does offer a basic package for residential and small commercial that starts at $95. The best thing to do is call our office so we can get you the most up to date information.
Q: Can you put systems in existing homes or businesses?
A: Yes, we have different systems we use for certain applications. Most of them can use hardwire or wireless sensors, and with our highly trained technicians, we can install in almost any home or business.
Q: I see you are a cooperative-owned company. Can I still get a system if I am not a member of a cooperative?
A: Absolutely, we have customers all over west central Minnesota, southern Minnesota and northwest Iowa. As long as you are in Heartland Security's coverage area you have access to our services!
Q: There are several security systems companies out there. What makes you better?
A: Heartland Security really cares about our customers and we are a company with integrity. Any smooth-talking sales representative could write up sales, but who is going to take care of you three years down the road? All of our employees have bi-annual background checks to make sure they are of the highest standards. Our technicians are top notch. Our call center is a U.L listed International Response Center that is local and operating 24/7. Last but not least, taking care of our customers is the cooperative way.
Q: How difficult are security systems to run?
A: Systems out there today are very easy to operate, even if you are not a computer whiz!
Q: What kind of insurance discounts are there?
A: There are several companies that offer discounts for putting security systems in homes or businesses, but the range is all over the board, depending on what area you live in and what discounts you are currently getting. We would say the average is between 3-12 percent, but I would recommend for you to call your homeowners insurance agent.
Q: How long does it take to install?
A: Again, all systems are different, but the average home will typically take the good part of the day to install. Some longer, some less.
Q: I am interested in security, but I do not want to pay the monthly monitoring fees.
A: We would first ask, why spend the money on a security system if you are not notified of the problem? Second, the off-site monitoring is what allows the insurance discounts. It is all about reducing loss to you and your insurance company. The sooner you are notified, the sooner you can take action, which reduces your risk of loss.
Q: What are the monthly costs for the monitoring?
A: The average cost is less than a dollar a day for most systems.
Q: Where is Heartland Security located?
A: Heartland Security is based in Melrose, MN and is owned by 13 electric cooperatives throughout our territory. We have strategically placed full-time sales representatives and technicians to best serve our customers.
Q: How do I get a hold of a sales representative in my area?
A: Call our base office in Melrose at 1-888-264-6380 and ask for the sales representative in your area. You could also find us in all the yellow pages.
Q: How do I find out more information about security?
A: The best way is to have one of our sales managers come out to visit with you at your home or business. We do not charge for this service. The sales representative will ask a few questions about what kind of security you are interested in and what your needs are, plus give you a price quote, all at no charge.
Q: What kinds of systems do you have to offer?
A: his is a complex question and would best be answered with a free, no obligations visit from one of our sales representative, but we offer several systems. Security systems Panic alarms systems Medical alarms systems Fire systems Temperature systems Water Carbon monoxide detectors Card access systems Video surveillance systems Video security systems Large- small commercial systems Agriculture systems Plus, we regularly add new products.
Q: What is Heartland Security's coverage area?
A: f you go to the "About Us" section on this website, you can see a current map of our coverage area, which has expanded several times because of our large growth in the last few years. If you are in an outlined area, feel free to call us, and we will do our best to service you.
Q: I am not interested in security for intrusion, but we leave for a couple of weeks in the winter. What do you have for environmental sensors, such as fire or furnace failure?
A: We have special packages designed just for your needs. We have sensors that detect smoke, a rapid rise of heat, high temp, low temp, sump pump failure or even leaky hoses behind washing machines. Heartland Security takes pride in providing unprecedented service and a knowledgeable sales staff to provide the ultimate service possible to our customers.

Technical Questions

Q: How do I change my code?
A: This will vary with the panel and would be best answered by referring to the appropriate manual. See our manuals page here.
Q: Why is my keypad beeping?
A: Your keypad may be beeping to let you know there may be a problem. See your owner's manual.. Or it could be time to change your batteries. You have two options for changing them. Our security technicians can make a service call to do this for you or you can order batteries through our office.
Q: Why am I having false alarms from my motion detector?
A: The most common cause of false alarms from a motion detector is insects. Also, items hanging from ceilings can cause false alarms.
Q: How do I change the batteries in my sensors?
A: Each sensor is different and may require a different type of battery. Please contact Heartland Security at 888-264-6380 to learn which battery is needed for your sensor.
Q: How often should I test the alarm system?
A: We recommend testing your security system once per month. This ensures your system is functioning properly and that all signals are being received at the monitoring center. To test your system, simply call our security monitoring dispatchers at 800-858-7811 and let them know you will be testing your system. Then, simply activate your system and set off your sensors. Our monitoring dispatchers will let you know whether or not they received a signal from your system. In addition, it is important to change the batteries and to vacuum and dust the sensors regularly to ensure they remain in proper working condition.
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