Troubleshooting Problems With Your Home Security System

Like everything electronic, our home security systems are a blessing most of time. But when something goes wrong, you can find yourself confused and frustrated. Given that the technology which protects us continues to become more sophisticated, so the problems too can be more complex.

Have you ever called for computer or software tech support? Before they look for complicated problems that may involve a specialist or physical repair, the tech support people always start with the most basic possibilities.

That’s a good idea with security systems.

If your security system isn’t functioning, if it’s working selectively or even if it’s giving off false alarms, check the power supply. Are there any frayed wires? If your system is hardwired, is its connection to your home’s power supply in tact? Is the backup battery working? If your security system is wireless, are the batteries good? And the backup?

Let’s delve further into false alarms. These have you falling out of graces with your neighbors and local law enforcement pretty quickly. In fact, some jurisdictions issue tickets and fines to residents who have repeated false alarms.

Your security system may have several kinds of triggers. The most common are the sensors on windows and doors. Make sure nothing’s come loose or that wires haven’t become caught or frayed. Also consider whether wind or a pet might be rattling a window or door, triggering the alarm. If you’re still getting false alarms, it may be time to contact your security system company or a security system repair professional to check the sensors themselves.

Also look at other forms of sensors. Do you have floor mat sensors? If they get too much traffic, they can start to wear and go off for no reason. What about motion sensors? If you have a rodent problem in conjunction with passive motion sensors, you might have a false alarm problem too.

With a wireless security system, the different sensors communicate with a central server via radio transmission. While these systems are easier to install and more versatile than traditional wired systems, they also have a higher rate of false alarm because transceivers are more prone to problems. Your security system should have testing procedures from the command center. Make sure to run checks every now and then to make sure all radios are working. A faulty radio could become a cause of misery.

Beyond these, unless you’re an electronics expert or a contractor – get help. Something more serious like a software malfunction or faulty hardware could be at the root of your security system difficulties. If you have a professional security system company, contact them for help and service.

Photo via *clarity*