Many people shy away from getting a security system because they’re afraid of the false alarms. And it’s true, false alarms do happen. So how do you prevent false alarms in a security system? We’ve got 4 strategies.
1. Check your doors
Your door sensors may trigger a false alarm if a door does not latch properly. Check that the hardware on the door from the hinges to the doorknob to the lock are functioning and not loose. Physically lock the doors because using the lock further cements the door in the frame.
2. Look for moving objects
False alarms from motion detectors can be caused by the following:
- Blowing curtains
- Spinning signs hanging from the ceiling (often seen in business environments)
- Balloons
- Clocks with pendulums
- Fax machines and printers that print in the field of view of the motion detector
- Heat vents directly under the motion detector
- Cats getting higher than 5 feet off the floor
3. Other tips
Like most of us, you might accidentally burn some toast or leave something on the stove too long. When this happens, call the response center to let them know.
Check environmental things in your house. Don’t set the heat lower than 55 and check your sump pump before high activity seasons.
Put a delay on the door that you use to let the dog out. Typically doors you let pets out are not the normal in/out doors for arming your system. You can set a delay on those doors so you can get to the keypad in time to disarm the security system. It may also help to put a reminder on the door to check the alarm system before letting pets out.
4. Use the system
While it may seem like you should do the opposite to avoid false alarms, using the system daily makes you more familiar with it. The less you use your system, the more likely you are to have a false alarm or a service concern.
Also, have a practice session with the people who are going to be using the system. Generally the person who sets it off is someone new to the system or who doesn’t use the system frequently. To help new people using the system, you can put the system in test before they come in or leave.
Two other very important things to know when you have a security system are your password and the response center number. When a false alarm occurs, you’ll be able to notify the response center and verify that you are a system user.
You’ll also want to know your local emergency department policies regarding security system false alarms. After a certain number of false alarms, you may have to pay when emergency personnel come to your house. Contact your local law enforcement for more information.
Security system false alarms happen. It will more than likely happen to you at some point. But knowing how to deal with a false alarm and prevent it from happening again will help. Besides, then you know your security system works! And it’s good to have peace of mind that your security system will work is something happens.
Updated August 4, 2016