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When you think about regular maintenance, you probably think about getting your car’s oil changed, but your home security system needs some love too. Faulty equipment can make your home vulnerable to break-ins, porch pirates, and more.
Device maintenance varies by brand, but we've got some general tips that should help across the board. Add these simple maintenance steps to your calendar to keep your security system in tip-top shape.
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Once a week, you should check in on any security equipment that eats up a lot of energy. While brands say that smart locks and wireless cameras can go weeks without a fresh set of batteries or a recharge, we’ve found that this can vary widely depending on a bunch of different factors. It’s best to take a look at the app to see how your devices are doing each week.
There are a few home security devices that you need to clean to work properly. First, make sure to dust the control panel weekly to prevent dust bunnies and cobwebs from interfering with delicate inner workings.
Next, wipe down the lenses of security cameras around the house with a microfiber cloth spritzed with glass cleaner. After all, smudgy footage is useless footage.
To avoid damage, be sure to spray cleanser on a cloth, not directly on your camera lens. And avoid using paper towels. They may scratch the lens.
Finally, time for some digital cleanup. If your security system has local storage, be sure to clear out any videos you don’t need to make room for new footage.
Check it off your list:
Your monthly tasks are all about updates and check-ups to make sure everything is running smoothly.
Make sure that your home security app is updated to prevent glitches when you’re using it and to prevent vulnerabilities that create loopholes for hackers.
How to update apps using the Apple Store:
How to update apps using Google Play:
Next, run the test mode on the control panel. This will put the control panel into self-diagnosis mode and work out any bugs.
Make sure you call your security system‘s customer service line to walk you through this step the first time. Otherwise, it might trigger a false alarm and an unnecessary visit from emergency services.
While you’re on the line, ask the representative how often you should run the self-diagnostic. Some, like ADT, just say you should do it “periodically.” We think once a month is a good idea, particularly if the control panel is giving you problems, but follow the company’s advice if it offers a recommendation.
Don’t forget your medical alert devices when you’re running maintenance checks. Many of these devices have test buttons that allow you to make a test call to ensure that it’s still functioning properly. You can also call your security company to run a status check on your devices.
Go around your house and test all of your fire alarms to make sure they are working. Some smart smoke detectors can be tested using the app.
Check it off your list:
Our six-month maintenance list focuses on items you probably don’t think about much after you set up your security system.
Typically, people stick their sensors up and never give them another thought . . . unless they start malfunctioning. A little care can keep them from giving you any trouble down the road.
First, walk around and make sure that all of your sensors are still firmly attached to windows, walls, and door jams. Rambunctious kiddos, kitties, and Fidos can peel stickable sensors off the wall. Humidity can also make sensors go asunder.
Next, try to set off each motion, window, and door sensor to make sure it is still sending notifications. We suggest doing a little dance in front of the motion sensors to set them off, but a silly walk is just as entertaining and effective.
If the motion sensor doesn’t seem to be working, it may need a change of batteries or reconnection to your system. If those fixes don’t work, contact your security system company for help. You may be able to get a replacement for free if the device is still under warranty.
A lot can happen in your yard as the seasons change, so checking your outdoor security devices every six months is a good idea.
First, go into the camera’s app and tweak the activity zone and privacy zone settings. Make adjustments to where each camera can “see” and detect motion. Did a tree in the front yard grow a lot over the past six months, and now a branch keeps setting off your notifications? Make adjustments to stop the aggravation.
Check security lights and porch lights too. Make sure there are no dead bulbs and that all of the motion sensors are still working.
Now is a good time to check the batteries in security devices that don’t use a lot of juice. Check the batteries in your wireless sensors, remotes, and smoke/CO detectors.
Check it off your list:
Yearly, there are a few maintenance tasks that are a little more complicated but well worth it.
Take a walk around your home and your property and take inventory. Is your security system missing anything that you need to purchase?
See if there are any places that may need the following:
Also, take a look around your home for simple changes that can make a big difference:
Once a year, make sure to check your security system’s warranty or contract. You may be eligible for new or upgraded equipment. Also, if your warranty is coming to an end, check all of your equipment to ensure that everything is functioning properly so you don’t miss out on free repairs or replacement security devices.
Check it off your list:
At least once a year.
Every 10 years. There should be a manufacturing date on the back of the smoke detector.
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