AMCO Alarm maintenance service overview
Alarm systems need to work 24/7, 365 days a year. That's why it's important to maintain and test your alarm system regularly, so it's in full working order the moment you need it.
60s
Test response
6-12mo
Full check
UK
Engineers
Key elements of your alarm system
These are the parts of your system that need to be checked and tested regularly:
- Core alarm functionality
i.e. the system arms and activates correctly
- Alarm sensors
i.e. all sensors work correctly (inc testing batteries for wireless sensors)
- Battery back-up
i.e. in case of a power cut your alarm works properly (and doesn't activate / false alarm)
- Remote monitoring
i.e. AMCO's monitoring service works correctly when your alarm is activated
N.B. unlike most alarm companies, we do not mandate alarm maintenance, but make recommendations and provide the option for you to either do various tasks yourself or instruct us to do them for you.
Not sure how often your system needs testing?
Give us a call and we'll talk through the right maintenance schedule for your system.
Test types, responsibility & frequency
Aligned with the different elements of an alarm system there are a number of different tests and maintenance procedures that need to be carried out. Each of these need to be done at different times / frequencies, and some of these can be carried out by the system owner (i.e. you) and others need to be carried out by your alarm company (i.e. us).
The following is a breakdown of the different tests and recommended frequencies:
| Test type | Frequency | Responsibility |
|---|---|---|
| Monitoring system test (automated) | Every 30 or 60 mins | AMCO |
| Alarm system test | Every 30 days | Owner |
| System maintenance | Every 6-12 months | AMCO |
How AMCO's remote monitoring tests work
With AMCO's latest digital communicators (Com 3+1 & Com 3+3) your system automatically pings our monitoring station on a regular basis (e.g. every 30 or 60 minutes, depending upon system setup).
If we fail to receive a ping, we will contact you to inform you and recommend a solution to fix the likely problem.
How to test your alarm system
To test your alarm you need to set your alarm as normal (as if you're going out) and then go into a room and activate one of the sensors. This should trigger the alarm - with the monitoring system activating within about 60 seconds.
We recommend doing an alarm system test every 30 days.
What's involved in a system maintenance check
We recommend your alarm is checked every 6-12 months by an AMCO engineer, who carries out a full / comprehensive maintenance check to ensure everything is in working order. In between visits, you can also do a basic maintenance check yourself.
N.B. there are certain checks that can only be done by a trained engineer. Below is a breakdown of the different tests required:
Need further advice?
If you need help deciding the right option for your situation, give the AMCO team a call - we'll advise you on the best options.
What's included in each check
| Check type | Detail | Basic | Full |
|---|---|---|---|
| Core alarm functionality | System arms / disarms correctly and activates in response to a sensor trigger | ||
| Sensor test | Each sensor is individually activated to confirm correct detection and signalling | ||
| Battery test | Main panel battery and all wireless sensor batteries checked and replaced if required | - | |
| Remote monitoring connection | System checked to confirm it is correctly communicating with AMCO's monitoring centre | - | |
| Panel inspection | Internal panel components inspected for signs of damage, corrosion or tampering | - | |
| Anti-masking check (Grade 3 only) | Sensors tested to confirm anti-masking detectors are functioning correctly | - | |
| Full system report | Written report of findings provided to customer following the visit | - |
Basic check
Can be carried out by the system owner. Covers core arm / disarm functionality and a basic sensor walk test. Recommended if an engineer visit is not due.
Full check
Carried out by a trained AMCO engineer. Covers everything in the basic check plus battery tests, remote monitoring confirmation, panel inspection and a full written report.
Frequently asked questions
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