Security system upkeep

The strength of your security system depends on the strength of its weakest link.

To ensure that the security system operates at its best, routine maintenance is required. This entails inspecting each component, changing the batteries if necessary, and making sure that each component can successfully interact with the others. You should perform your own weekly and monthly system checks in addition to using your main control panel and monitoring service to help you monitor system performance.

Examine the control panel.

The brain of your entire security system is the control panel. It receives the signal from each sensor and analyzes it to determine when to activate it. In its “test” mode, the panel does a self-check to verify sure everything is operating as it should. If you use a monitoring service, let them know before using test mode, unless your system specifically calls for it. If an alarm goes off during the test, this stops the monitoring service from treating it as an emergency. Check the panel visually for any evidence of damage or loose wiring. If the panel begins to exhibit symptoms of wear or malfunction, notify your alarm company right away.

Additional security checks should be made

Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen and one on each level of the house. These extinguishers should have their pressure gauges checked once a month. If they appear low, call a service center. Every month, go through safety precautions with any kids who live there. Reiterate crucial guidelines like the need to always follow the fire escape plan and not to ever give personal information to strangers on the phone.

While they do some of the work for you, security systems don’t completely automate the process of securing your house. You must exercise due diligence on your part to keep the system operational and guarantee proper usage. Anytime you have questions regarding the system or how it should be used, get in touch with your security provider. If there is a true emergency, asking questions now will allow you to save crucial time later.

Perform periodic perimeter inspections

Every week, take a walk around the house to check the locks on all the doors and windows. Additionally, check the frames of each door and window to make sure they are free of decay, warping, or any other issues that would make it simpler to gain entry. Verify all the doors and windows sensors. The sensors must occasionally be reattached because the adhesive often holds them in place. Batteries are used to power wireless sensors, and they must be inspected and changed as needed.

View every camera

If your system has cameras, make sure they are turned on, aimed in the right direction, and not vandalized. To ensure that each camera is receiving and recording properly, examine your monitoring and recording equipment as well.

Examine your lights.

Every month, make sure all the outside lighting fixtures are functional and have good bulbs. Security lights may occasionally shift slightly due to wind, resulting in improper light direction. To maximize the light’s efficiency, adjust it as necessary.

Demand yearly checks

Your personal inspections can guard against significant security system failures, and an annual inspection by a trained technician guarantees everything is operating at peak performance for years to come. All the system’s parts, wiring, power supply, and sensors are given a more thorough inspection by the inspector, who replaces or fixes anything that isn’t fully functional. The majority of businesses provide yearly checks at a reasonable price, and many of them are already covered by the initial installation contract. This lowers the possibility of future, more expensive repairs as well as system failure just when you need it most.

Additionally, the inspector updates any necessary software. Sometimes, without your involvement, this is done remotely through the main control panel. To be sure you have the most recent firmware, though, inquire about the software while the inspector is there. Errors are eliminated, and the likelihood of a malfunction is decreased.