Installing a security system is an effective way to reduce the risk of your home being burglarized. However, the system must be fully operational for you to enjoy the highest levels of protection. Here are a few common signs of a faulty system and ways to correct each of them.

How to Tell if Your Home Security System Isn't Working

1. Constant Beeping

Incessant beeping is a hard-to-miss indication that your system isn't working as it should. Fortunately, in most cases, this is due to dead batteries in an alarm or detector, which is an easy fix. If fresh batteries don't stop the constant beeping, reboot the system. If this too fails to solve the problem, contact a security professional, as there is likely an issue with the wiring or one of the system parts.

2. False Alarms

Not only are false alarms annoying and disruptive, but they are also a waste of precious resources. With monitored security systems, every alarm may automatically dispatch an emergency response; this means police might be showing up at your home when no threat is present. There are a number of issues that can cause false alarms, including bad wiring or circuits, an inadequate power supply, and errors in setting up the system. There are no DIY fixes for these problems, so make it a priority to have your system checked out by a professional.

3. Failure to Arm

Many home security systems won't arm themselves until they sense that every door and window are closed. When you go to engage the system, it will fail to arm if it detects an open door or window, as the perimeter is not secure. Often, the best way to solve this is to see which area of the home the system detects as still open, then check all the windows and doors in that area. You may need to open and reclose each of them more firmly. If that doesn't do the trick, it's time for professional repairs.

If you ignore any of these signs, you could be putting your home and family at risk. Alert Alarm is here to help. Since 1969, they have been serving Lake and Porter counties in Northwest Indiana. They provide residential and commercial security systems, including burglar alarms and surveillance cameras, as well as smoke and fire alarms. Call (219) 738-2201 to request a quote or visit them online to browse their products.