System Test How-To Guide

How to Test Your Security System

Regular testing helps ensure your alarm system is working properly and that signals are reaching the monitoring center. We recommend testing your system once per month and anytime changes are made to your phone line, internet, or equipment.

Follow the steps below to complete a safe and successful test.

Warning – your keypad, panel, and/or siren will sound in alarm.

---

Step 1: Put Your System on Test

Before testing, always contact the monitoring center to prevent a false dispatch.

📞 Call your monitoring station and provide:

• Your account name and address
• Your passcode

Ask the operator to place your system “on test” for 30-60 minutes.

---

Step 2: Check Your Keypad / Control Panel

1. Make sure the system is disarmed
2. Check for any trouble lights or error messages
3. If you see issues (low battery, communication failure, etc.), note them and contact us after the test

---

Step 3: Test Burglar Alarm Zones

1. Arm your system in Away mode
2. Open and close an exit door, then wait for the exit delay to finish
3. Open one protected door or window at a time
4. Walk in front of each motion detector
5. Confirm:
• The alarm sounds
• The keypad shows the correct zone description (example: “Front Door”)

---

Step 4: Test Environmental or Specialty Sensors

• For smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• Press the test button on the device
• Check expiration dates (sticker located on device, “replace by”)
• For all other devices (flood, temperature, panic buttons), test them or contact us for safe testing guidance if you’re unsure.

---

Step 5: Disarm and Confirm Signals Received

1. Disarm the alarm, then clear the alarm (disarm twice or follow touchscreen directions)
2. 📞 Call the monitoring center back:
• Ask them to confirm signals were received from the specific zones you tested
3. Take your system off test

✔  Your system is now back to full protection.

NOTE: If signals were not received, your system may have a communication issue that needs service.