
Most home alarm systems have a backup battery in place to keep the system alarmed in the event of a power outage. The alarm system is connected to the telephone line, that allows it to signal the business that monitors the system of a break-in, fire or other safety hazard when the system is triggered. Dead or malfunctioning batteries can cause the unit to stop working. Batteries require replacing periodically to ensure continuous service.
Tripped Circuit Breaker
During a power outage or power surge, circuit breakers can trip. After the unit does not receive electricity, the transformer does not charge the battery. When this occurs, the alarm system’s screen displays a “AC Power Failure” or “Low Batt” message. Check the circuit breaker to verify that it is on and not tripped. Gently flip the circuit breaker away — and then back on — as it may be tripped without appearing accordingly. Go through the steps, which vary by producer, to clean the screen when you have reset the electricity.
Rechargeable Battery
Home alarm systems have a rechargeable battery that requires replacing at least once every five decades. If you live in a region where the electricity continually goes off in the winter, for example, you might need to replace your rechargeable battery sooner than five decades. After the battery requires replacing, most alarm systems generate a “System Low Batt” warning that appears on the display. Once you’ve replaced the battery, clear the message from completing a “Sensor Test” or use different steps as advised on the owner’s manual.
‘AC Decline’ or ‘No AC’ Message
This indication on the screen means a disconnected electric circuit. Home alarm systems function on direct current and have a step-down transformer, much like laptops or tablets, that is plugged into an alternating current outlet. This message does not mean the battery is dead. Rather, it means a power reduction, tripped circuit breaker or an unplugged or malfunctioning transformer. Check to ensure the transformer, the little square box that has the electric prongs on it, is securely placed into the outlet. Confirm that the single plug on the opposite end is firmly seated into the main alarm unit by removing and reinserting it. Once power is restored, go through the steps for your unit to clear the screen’s message. If the message does not go away, replace the transformer.
Not Ready Display
When the display reads “Not Ready,” it indicates a problem in among the system’s zones. If your system has sensors attached to outside doors that are left ajar, it cannot arm without shutting the door or door that’s triggering the system. It could also signify that a motion detector in the system is sensing movement or that a prior alarm wasn’t cleared. Go through the steps to clear preceding alerts, verify that all windows and window contacts are shut and that pets or individuals aren’t activating the system’s motion detectors.