False alarms on your security system can be caused by several factors. These include user error, faulty equipment, or even physical threats such as animals and birds. At Security Systems of America, we’ve put together a guide on common reasons you may have a false alarm and what can be done to prevent them.
Here are some of the most common reasons you may experience a false alarm:
This may be the most common cause of false alarms. User errors include forgetting to turn off the system when entering the house, leaving windows open, or triggering motion sensors with pets moving around in the home. Users need to learn how their security system works before relying on it for their safety and protection.
This includes training anyone, such as children, family or friends staying with you, or house or babysitters, how to use it correctly to prevent errors.
Faulty Equipment: Sometimes malfunctions can occur due to mechanical issues with alarm components such as door and window contacts, smoke detectors, and other sensors that detect movement or vibrations. Checking these regularly and replacing them when necessary can help reduce false alarms from faulty equipment.
If your equipment was not designed or installed properly, it could lead to false alarms. For example, if your smoke detectors are installed too close to your fireplace or stove, it could trigger a false alarm. If installed too close to bathrooms, the steam can also cause a false fire alarm. Bad wiring and incorrectly placed sensors can also cause lase alarms. This is why it is crucial to hire a professional, experienced security solutions provider to install your security system.
While your security system doesn’t require a lot of maintenance, there are things you need to do to ensure it functions properly. Dead batteries in equipment such as motion sensors can lead to false alarms, and dust in your smoke detectors can also cause a false alarm. Be sure to change batteries every couple of years or when the indicator alerts you to change them. Additionally, if you are renovating or doing other work that can create dust, be sure to cover the fire alarms to keep dust out.
Animals can sometimes trigger motion sensors with their movements, causing false alarms. This can be especially problematic if the home has multiple pets or is located in an area with a lot of wildlife or pests that block the camera. In these cases, it might be necessary to adjust the sensitivity of the security system’s motion sensors or find ways to protect them from being triggered by animals and birds. If you have pets in your home, your security provider can work with you to determine the best placement for your motion sensors. We recommend using pet-friendly sensors that are designed to distinguish animal movements from human movements.
By understanding potential causes for false alarms and taking steps to minimize them, homeowners can ensure that their security system works as intended when needed. Awareness of these common causes can help reduce false alarms and keep homes safe.
Our experienced team can help meet all of your residential or commercial security needs to keep your loved ones or business safe. Contact us today to get started!
