The reasons below are some of the most common reasons for false alarms and callouts, as well as some tips for how to prevent them from happening.
Faulty Equipment
Despite the installation of high quality equipment, it is possible for a piece of equipment to become faulty over time. This is one of the key reasons why Tbaytel recommends testing your security equipment once a month.
Low Battery/Power Troubles
Some security systems have many wireless components - motion sensors, smoke detectors, door and window sensors - these sensors will often give an indication of a low battery level. On occasion they can cause a false alarm when they are receiving inconsistent power or low power levels.
Loose or Unlocked Doors or Windows
Door and window sensors use the distance between two sensors on the door or window and its frame. As weather causes homes to shift and settle it can cause the door or window hinges to loosen - allowing them to rattle in the wind. These can trigger false alarms if they trip the sensor enough. Locks on those doors/windows can help reduce any false alarms.
Renovations
Renovations can cause false alarms on a security system for several reasons. From the dust that can fill the air triggering smoke detectors - to wired connections being damaged or nicked. Loud noises or shocks occurring near window break sensors can trigger them. It is always good to put your system on Test with the monitoring station during renovations going on.
Poor install location of a sensor
Occasionally a sensor is installed in what seems to be a good location - but over time it can become more clear that the location is poor. A motion sensor that points towards a large window that was blocked by a curtain, if the curtain is left open the sensor can pick up movement outside of the window causing a false alarm. Additionally a fan running in a room could cause the curtain to flap or paper to fall to the ground or flutter. If this is the case, it is recommended to have the sensor relocated or removed.
Pets, rodents, and insects
Some motion detectors will be triggered by pets, rodents, or insects. If the security system was installed before pets were introduced into the home it is possible for motion sensors to be triggered by a new pet. New pet friendly sensors can be installed into your system by speaking with customer care at (807) 623-4400 and placing an install order.
Human error
Another key factor in false alarms is the human one. It is important for anyone who has entry codes into the home to know how to use all parts of the system. Ensuring that every user knows what processes are needed to secure the home in both Stay and Away modes.
Weather Conditions
Weather conditions can be a factor in false alarms. Typically more prevalent during the spring or winter, frost heaves can cause a misalignment for one or more sensors. An example being a sensor on a garage door. There is little a person can do to avoid frost heave and you may have to bypass a sensor for a period of time.