Installing a burglar alarm is a smart and often essential step in protecting your home or business. But once it’s up and running, it’s easy to forget about it — until something goes wrong. That’s why burglar alarm maintenance is just as important as the alarm system itself. Without regular checks, even the most advanced system can become unreliable, and in some cases, completely useless.
Alarms Aren’t Fit-and-Forget
Modern alarm systems are designed to be robust and long-lasting, but they still require occasional attention. Over time, sensors can lose sensitivity, batteries degrade, and software may need updating. Dust, spiders, or even furniture being moved can interfere with motion detectors. If your system relies on Wi-Fi or mobile alerts, a weak connection or expired SIM card could mean you're not getting the alerts when you need them most.
Simply put: if you don’t maintain your alarm, it can fail silently — and when it does, you won’t know until it’s too late.
Benefits of Regular Alarm Servicing
Having your system professionally maintained comes with a number of advantages:
- Reliability: You’ll know your system will work if there’s ever a real break-in.
- Fewer false alarms: Faulty sensors or low batteries are common causes of nuisance triggers.
- Insurance compliance: Some home or business insurers require proof that your alarm is serviced regularly.
- System longevity: Like a car, alarms last longer when they’re looked after.
- Peace of mind: You can go on holiday or leave your premises unattended without worrying whether your alarm will function properly.
How Often Should You Service Your Alarm?
For most domestic systems, a full service once a year is usually enough. Business premises or high-risk properties may need servicing every six months. A typical service will include:
- Checking and testing each sensor and door/window contact
- Inspecting the control panel and any keypads
- Replacing backup batteries if needed
- Testing the siren and any external sounders
- Verifying connections to monitoring services, if applicable
In the case of smart or cloud-connected alarms, it’s also important to check that mobile notifications and remote access features are functioning correctly.
Warning Signs to Look Out For
Even between professional services, there are signs your system may need attention:
- The keypad displays error messages
- You’ve had multiple false alarms
- You don’t receive app notifications anymore
- The siren doesn’t sound when the system is triggered
- You’ve changed your Wi-Fi network or router
- You’ve made changes to your building layout
Addressing small issues early prevents bigger (and more expensive) problems later.
Final Thoughts
An alarm system is only useful if it works — and the only way to guarantee that is through proper care and attention. Burglar alarm maintenance isn’t about upselling or unnecessary extras. It’s about protecting your investment and ensuring your security system keeps doing what it’s supposed to do: keeping people and property safe.
If it’s been a while since your last service, or if you’re not sure when your system was last checked, now’s a good time to book a professional. Better safe than sorry.
