Do you want to know: how often should a security system be maintained? Preston Alarm Experts offer alarm systems fitting services for Preston, Lancashire, Liverpool, Manchester and the North West. We look at how often a security system should be checked and why regular alarm maintenance is important.
How Often Should We Service Intruder Alarms?
Modern intruder systems are installed by engineers at the highest industry standard to ensure your safety. Proper installation is essential for reducing the risk of false alarms. It also successfully improves the police response. Many older alarms have a track record of false alarms, which is why it is vital to install upgraded systems and carry out frequent services.
Intruder alarms should be serviced every 12 months upon installation. Sometimes every 6 months. Especially, if they include monitoring systems that are synced to police-approved response centres. Ensure you comply with your manufacturer handbook, that way, your warranty and insurance will remain valid.
We encourage all customers to invest in regular maintenance to keep their systems and alarms as efficient as possible.
How Often Should My Security System Be Checked?
Once your equipment is fully installed, you can then leave it to operate freely. Generally, you won't have to tend to it or worry about any repairs, especially in the first few months to a year.
However, all equipment and electrical devices are bound to experience some faults or wear and tear. All security systems, whether domestic or commercial, are vital to the safety of your family, customers, or employees.
Most security systems require a comprehensive maintenance visit annually. If you have a high-tech system that includes monitoring features, these should be checked twice a year, yet one of the visits can be performed remotely.
Burglar Alarms
Intruder and burglar alarms must be tested and serviced on a regular basis. Alarms that aren't functional cannot sufficiently protect you, your family, or your employees. It is quite common for PIR systems to fail. You may leave blind spots unprotected, creating an opportunity for potential criminals.
On the other hand, you may want to leave certain zones unmonitored, especially if you have pets. These can then be altered for more pet-friendly sensors, to avoid the risk of an overactive alarm system. It's good to always be mindful that ineffective alarms that aren't properly maintained could cause issues with future insurance claims.
Many security system companies can offer packages that ensure your alarms will remain in the best condition. Professionals will help spread the cost of your system evenly. They will provide regular tests at the suggested intervals across the year.
Whether you need a visual inspection, fault fixes, or any support, these flexible packages are available. Many burglar alarm maintenance packages involve emergency call-outs, meaning you have an alarm consultant at the ready if you experience any issues.
CCTV
Your CCTV system can experience a broad range of faults over time. It can break, be knocked down or vandalised, or lose signal. It isn't unprecedented to see cameras shifted after window cleaners, construction workers, youths, or potential criminals have been at your property.
So, it is vital that your infra-red light are checked every so often, to ensure they work and are placed correctly.
Security professionals will then check the placement of your camera positioning and overall functionality. Suppose your camera has failed or broken, they will then advise you on the best, cost-effective upgrades or repairs. Cameras in the style of a pan-and-tilt IP cost around £100.
Don't neglect your maintenance, it isn't too expensive to upkeep and will keep your family household or business as safe as possible.
CCTV
Upgrades
Upgrades
Technology is constantly evolving and moving forward, new 'smart' products are all-the-range. They are soon to become the golden standard, especially where home security is concerned.
Once your alarm has gone out of date, professionals will be able to provide the best advice on the newest, most efficient upgrades of your system. They may even offer a quote for a brand-new CCTV or burglar alarm system.
Why Regular Intruder Alarm Maintenance Is So Important
Upon investing in a high-quality security system for your property with efficient alarm installations, the next major factor is to ensure it is maintained. Burglar alarm maintenance is vital to ensure you get the best performance and value out of your system. Frequent checks will help improve the lifespan and overall functionality of your devices.
You want to ensure your alarm system operates fully during all seasons, as you don't want it to fail when you need it the most. A lack of maintenance can leave your alarm with plenty of wear and tear that builds up over time. The losses you may suffer from mechanical or technical issues are incomparable. To keep your household and belongings safe, we must encourage regular maintenance.
All high-quality burglar alarms are curated using a series of complex components. These require frequent maintenance and safety checks that allow them to remain operational. Security system professionals can repair all existing or minor faults to mitigate issues.
1
Crime Prevention
Many criminals are vastly opportunistic. If they spot any visual or audible faults with your alarm or security system, they are more likely to attempt to break in. A well-functioning alarm will deter thieves, intruders and vandals.
2
Liability
Booking services that cater to your existing security alarms ensure you comply with the terms of the insurance agreement. Failing to do so breaks this contract agreement. You may find yourself becoming liable, therefore, expected to pay a large sum of money to your insurance company. These costs are covered as long as you ensure you book services annually or every 6 months.
3
Efficiency
Emergency calls provide an urgent, definite solution to your alarm system issues. They often cost more than scheduled services. Regular maintenance call-outs are provided to ensure all your security devices function correctly. Call-outs and services help identify small faults much earlier. You don't want to leave your devices to wear and tear and not work when you need them most.
4
Costs
Catching faults and early signs of them, before they have the chance to worsen, will save you hundreds in repairs. The earlier issues are identified, the easier they are to repair, and you won't have to pay extensive costs for replacements.
What a Maintenance Visit Includes
Once your local engineer attends your property or site, they will begin by checking your system and log book documentation. These will often detail the previous service calls made and any issues or faults that you may have experienced with your security system.
During a maintenance visit, professionals will perform a full functionality inspection on your existing intruder alarm system to ensure it is in good condition, and assess any problems. These checks involve the following:
They begin by checking the overall installation. The specifications and regulations are used when assessing the siting of equipment and the location of your system, to ensure they comply.
Then engineers check the operation of detection devices, especially those that are deliberately or manually operated.
All flexible connections are then closely inspected.
Engineers will assess the standby power and mains power supplies, alongside all the charging rates. They ensure all are set up correctly and in good condition.
The control unit is checked for proper operation.
Remote signalling equipment is inspected wherever possible. If your intruder alarm is linked to an ARC (Alarm Receiving Centre), they will test the equipment to ensure it functions correctly.
All alarm devices and audible warnings are thoroughly checked.
The entire system is checked according to the customer and manufacturer handbook.
Preston Alarm Experts provides the best home security fitting services in and around Preston, Lancashire, Liverpool, Manchester and the North West. Whatever you require, our professional team can assist you with everything from small repairs to installing a completely new home security system.
