Frequently Asked Questions

 

What should I do if my system isn't working properly?

Call Westside Security Systems . We will be happy to assist you with any service related issues. If necessary we will send one of our technicians to service your equipment. If your alarm is beeping or displaying an alert you don't understand call us for assistance.

 

When do the batteries need replacement ?

The system battery in the alarm panel is a rechargeable type that is kept charged automatically. If you have wireless sensors the batteries are disposable. However these batteries last many months or even years and only rarely need replacement. You may notice that a wireless device in a high traffic area such as a hallway or entry may need battery replacement long before one in a less often used area. Your keypad will normally display a low battery warning when a battery needs replacement. Additionally the panel will notify Westside Security Systems of the low battery status if your alarm is monitored.

 

Why is my system false alarming ?

The most common cause of false alarms is due to movement within a motion detector's field of view while the system is armed. They can be triggered by pets, or movement of curtains or blinds. We can assist you if a motion detector needs adjustment to prevent reoccurrence.

 

Will my system still work when the power goes off ?

Your system has it's own backup battery that is capable of sustaining normal operation for several hours. This battery is also capable of powering the siren, and the alarm communicator if the system goes off. It recharges automatically whenever the power is restored and it's status is constantly monitored. The monitoring station will be notified by the alarm if the battery backup is nearly discharged ..

 

What if the telephone is in use when the system goes into alarm ?

Each alarm system is equipped with a digital communicator that is designed to "sieze" the phone line when it needs to communicate with the central station. This prevents an "off hook" or in use phone line from preventing the system from communicating an alarm.

 

Why should my system be monitored by a central station ?

There are many benefits for having your system professionally monitored. The most obvious is the automatic reporting or alarms. Your system is capable of notifying Alarm Control Centre of what type of alarm is occurring and their trained operators will respond to each alert. Each individual alarm owner can dictate how to respond and Alarm Control Centre will notify theGardai and/or fire Brigade for you if required. The alarm system also monitors it's own system status and can alert us to many things that may require attention before they become a problem. Besides monitoring the status of the sensors and control panel it also monitors the batteries, and communications functions. If your alarm system reports a system problem we will notify you as soon as possible.