Spring Cleaning Your Security System
The unofficial countdown to summer begins for many of us each year as we “spring forward” into daylight saving time, moving the clock forward one hour to give us an extra hour of sunlight at the end of every day.
Since this is the time of the year when we change our clocks, it is important to remember to do a few other things as well:
Change the batteries on your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
Spring clean your security system
Check the Batteries
Components of your security system that may operate on batteries include your control panel, keypad, door and window sensors, motion detectors, glass-break detectors, smart thermostats, and smart door locks. It’s essential to make sure these batteries are all working correctly.
Your security system may give you alerts when batteries are low. Many of today’s smart home security apps also provide low-battery notifications. But one sure-fire way to make sure everything is working the way it should is to test your security system.
Your security panel, even if it is hardwired into a power source, may have a backup battery. Check your owner’s manual to see how often you should replace the panel battery. It is generally every three to four years.
Test Your System
Are all your door and window contacts and motion detectors working correctly? Security systems have a “test” mode for this exact purpose. If you have a monitored home security system, make sure you call the central command station to let them know you are going to be testing your system, so they do not dispatch the authorities to your home.
Arm your security system and open every door or window that has a security contact to ensure the alarm sounds. Once you have completed your test, call the monitoring station to make sure they received a signal for each of the contacts.
If something is not working, try changing the batteries. If that still doesn’t work, you may have a wiring issue.
Survey the Landscape
Another helpful spring-cleaning task is performing spot checks on all components of your security system inside and outside your home. Below is a good list to start with:
-
Dust off motion detectors
-
Clean light fixtures; change any dead bulbs
-
Check outdoor lighting to make sure it is working properly; change any dead bulbs
-
Inspect any indoor or outdoor video cameras to make sure the lens is clean, the camera is aimed accurately, and the camera is recording
-
Check window locks to make sure they are working correctly
-
Consider upgrading to smart door locks, so you don’t have to worry about spare keys under rocks anymore
-
Consider resetting your keypad entry passwords if there are vendors or visitors who no longer need access to your home
Dust off motion detectors
Clean light fixtures; change any dead bulbs
Check outdoor lighting to make sure it is working properly; change any dead bulbs
Inspect any indoor or outdoor video cameras to make sure the lens is clean, the camera is aimed accurately, and the camera is recording
Check window locks to make sure they are working correctly
Consider upgrading to smart door locks, so you don’t have to worry about spare keys under rocks anymore
Consider resetting your keypad entry passwords if there are vendors or visitors who no longer need access to your home
You also may want to consider having a professionally trained technician inspect your security system once a year to ensure it is working accurately and troubleshoot any problems that may come up later.
Explore Our Other Blogs
Choosing a Safe Neighborhood in Chicago
There are a lot of great places to live in Chicago. From the historic vibe of Printers Row to the ultra-stylish River North, there are neighborhoods to fit every personality. But are they safe? It turns out, many of them are. According to Niche.com—which ranks neighborhoods based on crime, schools, cost of living, etc.—the short commuting…
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…
The Safest Neighborhoods in Detroit
Low-Crime Neighborhoods of Detroit SafeWise released its rankings of Michigan’s 20 Safest Cities of 2021. On the 2021 list, 9 of the 20 cities are considered suburbs of Detroit. They include: Gross Ile Township #3 Oakland Township #4 Huntington Woods #9 South Lyon #13 Addison Township #16 Highland Township #17 Rochester #18 Berkley #19 Brandon Township…
Are All Home Security Systems the Same?
Home security used to be synonymous with burglar alarms, but this is no longer the case. Home security today is not only about protection, but also comfort, convenience, communication, and information. All home security systems never were the same—there were different manufacturers, different types of equipment, and various providers. Today, there are entirely new…
Which Businesses are Burglarized Most?
The idea of business theft and burglary is not a pleasant one; however, the likelihood of your business being burglarized is rather high. In fact, approximately 37% of small business owners were impacted by burglary or theft over the past year. Retail businesses in particular are highly targeted as thieves are seeking the opportunity to either use or resell stolen items. Everything from simple shoplifting to employee theft can contribute to overall business…
What is a Smart Home and How Can Home Automation Solutions Help You?
Home automation solutions are no longer the ideas of science fiction. These intelligent home systems can save you hundreds of dollars through energy conservation, and they can provide state-of-the-art security to protect your home and the loved ones inside of it. What is A Smart Home? A smart home is equipped with lighting, heating,…
Has My Home Security System Been Hacked?
With more DIY security systems than ever available with the touch of a button, families around the world are choosing to protect their homes with easy to install cameras and alarms. The expert team at FSS Technologies aims to help homeowners make the right choice for their families when selecting a home security system. A…
When Is Automatic Fire Detection Required?
A fire detection system is a good idea for your property, and many insurance companies offer discounts based on your level of protection. While not required in your private residence, the law does require automatic fire detection in a wide array of other facilities. Local Building Code Requirements Your state’s building code will spell out…
How Landscaping Affects Your Security
Visibility When it comes to the landscaping around your home or business, there are several considerations to keep in mind that could affect your visibility and overall security. While some suggestions to increase visibility and reduce obstructions may seem obvious, others are more subtle and could have a considerable impact. Lighting Having adequate lighting around…
Everything You Need to Know About Carbon Monoxide Detectors
What is a Carbon Monoxide Detector? Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas or liquid that is poisonous to humans. Detectors are designed to identify carbon monoxide leaks and warn those in your home or business. This advanced warning can save lives as it allows you to get outside as fast as…