Citadel Security Systems

What’s that chirping noise? Hearing a sporadic chirping or beeping noise coming from somewhere in the house can drive you crazy, and many people automatically assume that it’s coming from the alarm system. However, if there were a problem with your system, any noise would come from your alarm keypad, and you would see an error message on your keypad’s display. More likely, these chirping sounds are coming from a separately-installed device, such as a standalone smoke detector, carbon monoxide detector, or your FiOS back-up. Devices like this will beep to alert you of low batteries, end of functionality, and other issues.

When plugging in your outdoor holiday displays this year, make sure to check your electrical outlets. Are they at risk for water getting inside? Outdoor receptacles are normally GFI (or Ground Fault Interrupter) receptacles. These fast-acting circuit breakers are designed to protect you from serious electrical shock. All outdoor lights and decorations should be plugged into GFI receptacles. In addition, don’t overload your circuits with too many light strings, and try to keep water from seeping into these outdoor receptacles.

Some customers worry that they need to avoid installing motion detectors because they have pets in their home. However, this is not necessarily the case. Citadel offers motion detectors specifically designed to react to intruders, while allowing small animals to pass without issue. These pet-immune detectors look for infrared energy, or body heat, emanating from a target that moves across their field of view. A human’s size and height are sufficient to set off the alarm, but pets up to 40 pounds remain undetected.

Due to the recent drop in temperatures, many of our customers may experience a problem with the wireless sensors on their windows or doors. These sensors use lithium batteries, which are popular due to their extended life. However, sensors which are affixed to a window frame or exterior door may drain more quickly due to conductivity from the colder temperatures outside. If this happens, your keypad will beep to alert you, and Citadel will call to confirm which device has a low battery.

Don’t forget to take advantage of any available discounts on your homeowner’s insurance policy provided by a central station monitored alarm system. Just call Citadel and ask for the Alarm Certification Document describing the coverage provided. If you’re thinking about having a security system installed, check into these discounts and find out how much you could save.