The 5 Top Reasons for Home Security False Alarms
Home security false alarms may not seem like that big of a deal, but they are becoming more expensive than ever. Practically hundreds of thousands of false alarms occur across the U.S. every year. If you want to avoid unnecessary fines and make sure that your home and family are protected in case of a real emergency, then you should take measures to prevent false alarms. Identifying the reasons for home security false alarms is the first step.
Here are the 5 top reasons for home security false alarms:
1. Environmental Factors
All detection devices in a home security system are designed to operate within certain environmental constraints. Some of the common environmental factors that may cause a false alarm include:
• Birds, rodents, or other small animals
• Loose fitting or broken doors or windows or frames which allow excessive air movement
• Steam pipes, furnaces, boilers, etc.
• Loose or unlatched windows or doors
• Mirrors or glazed areas that allow strong reflected or direct light to shine onto detectors
• Condensation or dripping water near or on the wiring or detectors
2. Human Error
According to statistics, about 80% of false alarms are usually caused by users. Some examples of this include someone from the household accidentally opening a door or window after the alarm was armed, typing a wrong password, etc. You can prevent this from happening by educating your family members as well as household helpers how to use the security system properly.
3. Corrosion and Damage to Wiring
Certain areas of the house are particularly prone to corrosion. These will typically be in coastal areas but may also include some homes in industrial areas. Corrosion causes increased resistance on circuit waves and hence may become the cause of home security false alarms as most perimeter detection devices e.g. tension switches, magnetic contacts, vibration detectors, etc. are likely to operate improperly due to corrosion and damage to wiring.
4. Pets
Cats and dogs can easily trigger sensitive motion detectors that are designed for intruders and burglars. One way to make sure that your pets don’t trigger the security alarm is to position the sensors high enough so that your pets cannot reach them. Another way is to install a pet friendly home security system. Such security alarm systems are designed for homeowners with pets and they are tolerant enough to ignore animals up to about 44 lbs.
5. Power Problems
Last but not least, poor supply of power can cause home security false alarms. Damaged or old batteries and irregular mains power will give false alarms and may even cause further damage to your home security system. You can expect problems with your home alarm system if you experience protracted or frequent power failures. To deal with the problem, buy a larger battery and charger.
Final Word
Home security false alarms can be annoying as well as problematic. However, they are usually preventable. You can avoid them by being knowledgeable about your security system and being aware of all the reasons that may cause false alarms. If your home security alarm has been accidentally activated, then it is recommended that you call the monitoring center immediately. Also, hire the services of a security alarm company if you suspect that your security system is faulty.
If you have a home in The Coachella Valley and are concerned about the overall security of your property, see our page for special offers on a new alarm system, then contact the professional alarm consultants at Command One Security! We are eager to discuss with you the most effective and economical options we have available for home security today. Call us today at (760) 568-0052!