What Are False Alarms and How Does that Impact My Home Security?

One thing that comes along with owning most security systems is false alarms. Here are your questions answered by our security system experts.

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A false alarm is when your security system's alarm goes off and there is no emergency. If you have a self-monitored system, a false alarm is no biggy. You'll get a notification that your alarm is going off and you can choose what to do from there. 

With monitored systems, though, a false alarm can be a huge deal. If the monitoring center can't reach you, they may call for emergency services. Often, residents are charged if emergency services are called. Sometimes they'll let you off with a warning, but too many false alarms and you could be facing a bill worth hundreds of dollars. 

Some security companies that have verified response are:

• SimpliSafe: The monitoring center checks the situation through security cameras.
• ADT: The company uses video camera verification.
• Ring: The Alarm Verified Guard Response sends a third-party guard to verify an alarming event.

Other than costing you a bunch in fines from emergency services, the police officers, fire trucks and EMTs that come to your home may be needed elsewhere. This may keep a legitimate emergency from getting the help it needs in a timely manner. 

According to Bay Alarm, 80% of false alarms are due to user error, like forgetting your PIN when disarming your system.

There could be several reasons. Here are a few to consider:

• The battery on the control panel may be low.
• The sensors are detecting pets walking by.
• The sensors may be defective or need a battery change.
• The sensors' sensitivity level is set too high.
• The fire detection sensors may be too close to heat sources, like bathroom steam or heaters.

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