DIY system test instructions
All security and fire systems require periodic testing. Manufacturers recommend weekly tests. In reality, the frequency of tests is solely up to the alarm owner. Our technicians are available for thorough security system testing for $50 minimum (includes first hour.) Instructions for doing limited testing yourself are here.
The instructions here apply to DSC, HONEYWELL, and NAPCO alarms, specifically. More troubleshooting help can be found in the manuals.
These instructions will guide you through a self-test of your security system, with the exceptions of: cellular phone back-ups, power supplies, glassbreak sensors, smoke detectors, heat sensors, CO detectors, tampers, water sensors, temperature gauges, trip wires, and foil. To have any of these item tested, please call our service office at 816-436-3000 to schedule a thorough inspection from a Rampart Security Systems technician. (NOW ONLY $50 FOR RESIDENTIAL SECURITY SYSTEMS)
Before you start, make sure you have a copy of your zone list (found in your manual or written on the keypad), a pen, and a watch with a second hand with you. You might also want your house keys (just so you don’t get locked out) and some earplugs.
1. Call Central Station (816-921-9600). Tell the operator your name, password, and that you are going to test your alarm system. Expect a small delay while they look up your account. They will tell you that your system is “on test”. There will be no response to your system’s signals for three hours, or until you notify them to take your system off of test mode.
2. You should now inform anyone on the premises that you are testing the alarm.
3. Proceed to the keypad. All zones must be closed for the test. If the green light on the keypad is on, the system is ready. If it is flashing or off then there is an open zone. Close any open zones and proceed.
4. (for systems using a landline) Take your land-line phone off the hook. This is to test for “line seizure.” It will go dead during the test if your system is connected properly to the phone line. If you have had phone work done since your installation, it may no longer be connected
properly.
5. At the keypad closest to an entry door, enter your code to arm the system. Do not bypass any zones. The red light labeled armed should be on.
6. Once you have armed the system, open and shut the door. Wait motionless for 1 minute at the entry door. Open the door. The keypad will sound, indicating your entry delay. Keep motionless and allow the sound to continue. The siren will sound after the entry delay expires. If you have an outdoor siren or strobe, step outside and make sure they are working,
7. Now walk through your motion detector(s) and open all doors and windows hooked to the system. While making the rounds check your phone—is it dead? If not, make a note. Hang it up.
8. Trigger any other devices on the system. Don’t forget wireless panics and shock sensors. Allow 15 seconds after tripping the last item before going to the next step. This will ensure that any zones with a delayed reporting feature send the signal before
you disarm.
9. Now enter your code to disarm the system.
On Magnum Alert keypads (Napco): You should now see a flashing light and/or flashing red numbers. This indicates the alarm has an event in memory. To view which zones were tripped during your test hold down the alarm bypass button and keep holding as different numbers appear. Did you trip all of the zones? Make a note. Hold down the 9 button for 5 seconds to clear the alarm memory.
On Security Partners and DSC systems: You can view the alarm history on your LCD keypad by following the instructions on the LCD screen. Make a note of which zones tripped.
10. Call Central Station (816-921-9600). Tell the operator your name, password, and that you are calling to check what zones sent signals. Expect a small delay while they look up your account. They will read the signals to you. Make notes.
Remember to tell them that you are done testing.
11. Check your zone list—did any zones fail to send signals? On zones with multiple items did you get separate signals through for each door, window, etc.? If not, retest those items one by one. If they fail, call us for service. We will come and address
the specific problems your alarm has.
Service calls for maintenance are no charge M-F 8am-4pm; parts are not included unless still under manufacturers warranty. Acts of God and willful damage are excluded from our free service policy. We also have to charge for weekend, after-hour, and holiday service call visits. A full system test by our technicians costs $50 (M-F 8am-4PM).