How to Maintain a Commercial Security System
Updated May 2023
With the latest advances in security technology, it’s becoming easier for small businesses to find a security system that works for their needs. Whether your business just installed your commercial security system or has been utilizing security measures for some time, proper maintenance will increase the life of your system and provide better overall protection from potential threats.
Common Issues with Commercial Security Systems
There are a variety of issues that can arise with a security system in a commercial building. Some of the most common include:
- Alarm system calibration issues
- Incorrect programming of your alarm safety system
- Security system arms or disarms incorrectly
- False alarms due to poor programming of the system
- Non-functioning security locks, sensors, cameras, or other components
While some of these issues require a service technician, proper maintenance can help your business avoid problems or improve device health. Consult a professional on any inspections or repairs beyond an amateur’s scope.
Ways to Help Maintain Your System
Maintaining a commercial security system is typically something left to professionals, but there are ways that you can help contribute to your security system’s health.
- Ensure door locks are clean and can function properly and smoothly.
- Cameras should be clear of obstructions, and lenses and connections should be clean.
- Check battery levels within all battery-powered devices.
- Routinely check with your manufacturer or service provider to ensure your system’s software and firmware are updated to reduce vulnerability at your commercial property.
Regular Inspections for Commercial Systems Matter
While these efforts will significantly increase the likelihood of your system lasting, the best way to maintain your commercial security system is by partnering with a professional security team to provide regular inspections. At a minimum, you should have your system inspected annually. More checks could be needed if you are dealing with an older system. Professional inspections for commercial systems should include the following:
- Visual inspection and any necessary cleaning of devices and electronics
- Verification of all communication links, including to the monitoring station
- Performance of a “walk-test” (walking around the secure area to intentionally set off the system)
- Any needed software updates or data backups
When partnering with FSS Technologies, our customers can rest easy knowing they’re in excellent hands when it comes to securing their business. Our certified security professionals can easily inspect your current system, perform service, and advise you on any security questions or concerns.
Explore Our Other Blogs
Where Should Smoke Detectors Be Placed?
Smoke Detector Placement Fire can spread extremely fast. In just minutes, a building can be fully engulfed in flames. Smoke detectors are critical to give people inside homes and commercial buildings early warnings so they have time to get out. Proper smoke detector placement is also key when it comes to keeping your home or business safe. Residential Smoke Detector Placements At a minimum, The National Fire Protection…
Ins and Outs of Contract vs No Contract Security Systems
Many people see signing a long-term contract with a reputable alarm company as a stressful experience. In truth, contracts are in place to benefit both the alarm company and the homeowner. Developing a relationship and signing a long-term commitment to a security company allows you to get to know a team and benefit from the peace of mind that…
What are Fire Ratings?
Any business owner would be devastated by a fire, and most turn to fire safety systems for preventative and protective solutions. Still, many are unaware that their building’s materials can directly influence how a fire impacts their building’s structure. In addition to investing in a comprehensive fire safety system, it is critical to consider the…
What Do Villages Require to Add a Security System?
What Is a Village? A village in the United States is defined as a small municipality with limited corporate powers. A village government usually consists of a village board made up of trustees and a village president. Village Building Codes Have Minimum Requirements Every village adopts its own building codes to establish minimum requirements for…
Tips to Prevent Your Security System from Being Hacked
The Risky Business of Ring’s Vulnerable Security and other DIY security systems can leave your home as a potential target for hackers or thieves. When you are investing in a security system, you are hoping for peace of mind, and you are trusting this technology with your safety and property. Have I Been Hacked? A hacker may…
Lowe’s Iris Line Goes Under
Many consumers are seeing red with the recent news that big-box retailer Lowe’s is shutting down service to its Iris smart home platform. Lowe’s launched its Iris cloud service in 2012 so it could sell its own smart home products to the public. Customers with an Iris smart hub, the heart of the network, could…
ADT Home Security Settlement
ADT home security is facing a class-action lawsuit. The plaintiffs allege that ADT failed to disclose wireless sensors’ vulnerability to evasion and jamming. Why should you care? Although this settlement is for ADT, this is a vulnerability all wireless security systems face. Let’s talk about wireless technology for a second. All home Wi-Fi networks are…
Fire Systems for the Manufacturing Industry
Few industries face as many fire safety concerns as manufacturing does, and the consequences of poor fire safety can be catastrophic. From 2017 to 2021, roughly 36,784 fires occurred yearly at industrial or manufacturing properties, causing $1.5 billion in direct property damage. With materials prone to combust or explode, industrial businesses must take extra care…
Testing Fire Alarm Call Points
Most large commercial-grade fire alarms today are addressable systems. Unlike conventional systems that use fire alarm zones, addressable fire alarm systems assign a unique “call point” to every device. Each one sends a digital signal to the main panel, creating a two-way line of communication that shows activations and status updates. An addressable panel can then identify…
How Burglars Break In and Where to Secure Your Home
When a burglar considers your home as a potential target, here are some of the things he or she is looking for. Easy Access An intruder doesn’t want to get caught and needs to have an easy escape. There’s not a more easily accessible entry point at your home than an unlocked door, and most…