Idea
Security System Suggestion
Adding a backup cellular phone connected to your security system will allow your security system to keep operating even if your landline phone line is cut.
Routine Care Task
Test system
This task reduces the risk of false alarms or lack of alarm.
Timing: June (yearly)
Verify contact information
Since area codes can change, or a monitoring system can change their records system, verifying the contact numbers help to ensure proper procedure during an alarm.
Timing: June (every 2 years)
Replace backup battery
Replacing the backup battery helps to ensure proper protection operations.
Timing: June (every 3 years)
How To
The security system should be tested in accordance with your manufacturer’s recommendations. Items to be tested include:
- Operation of each monitor
- Operation of alarm horn
- Control pad operation
If your system is set up to alert a central monitoring station when an alarm is triggered, then the system is typically set up to automatically dial the central station over your phone line. The central monitoring service will then call the phone numbers they have on file for you. As such, you should contact your central monitoring service and verify:
- Their current dial-up number.
- The phone numbers you want them to call you at if they get an alarm.
- The password you use with them to signal “all clear”.
The alarm system typically has a backup battery so that the system can operate even during a
power failure. This battery should be replaced with a fresh one.
The battery is typically about 5 inches wide by 3 inches high by 2 inches deep and is located inside of control box for your system.
Benefits
The benefits of testing the system are moderately high, as it helps to confirm that your system is prepared to protect your home.
The benefits of verifying contact information are relatively high. Doing this task helps ensure that your monitoring company can reach you in an emergency.
The benefits of replacing backup battery are moderately high. Doing this task helps ensure that your system can run during a temporary power failure.
Costs
The cost of testing the system is relatively low. It is estimated that this task should only take about 45 minutes to complete. No specialized tools are required.
The cost of verifying contact information is very low. It is estimated that this task should only take only a few minutes to complete since it only requires making a phone call.
The cost of replacing backup battery is relatively low. It is estimated that this task should only take about 30 minutes to complete, but you will need to purchase the appropriate battery for your home security system in advance.
Originally posted at http://www.petermuehlbronner.home-wizard.com/idea/SS_10