The Importance of Testing your Amherst Alarm Systems

The simplest and most effective way to test your system is to call Amherst Alarm and tell us that you would like to do a test of your system, then set off your alarm, wait a minute, then call us back and verify that we received the signal. Follow these steps:

• Read the manual. By understanding how the system works, you’ll prevent false alarms.
  
• Make sure you know how to disarm the alarm. Keep the disarm codes or security key close at hand.
  
• Call Amherst Alarm if you have any doubts. We will walk you through the process and be given a heads up if something goes wrong with your system.
  
• Let everyone in the house know you are about to run a test.
• Close and lock all protected doors. Pretend you are about to leave the house and want it to be secure.
• Run the test operation on your system. When everything is ready, go ahead and punch in the keys to activate the test mode.
• Test each sensor. Some systems will systematically tell you which sensors to check. Go throughout your house tripping every sensor to make sure the signal to the controller is strong. Listen for the alarm when you trip a sensor
• Re-arm your system. When the test is complete, de-activate Test mode and re-arm your system.

You should test your alarm system at least monthly. For instance, upgrading to voice over IP (VOIP) can interfere with your alarm panel. That’s why it is important to contact Amherst Alarm before you make any changes to your phone or data service.