Alarm System Will Not Arm or Shows a Sensor Open

If your alarm system will not arm, the system may be detecting an open or faulted door, window, or other security sensor.

Check the message on your alarm panel

Look at your alarm panel or keypad and identify any door, window, sensor, or zone that is showing Open, Fault, Not Ready, or a similar message.

If you are using the Alarm.com app, check the system status there as well.

If a door or window shows open

If the door or window is actually closed but the alarm system says it is open:

1. Open the affected door or window.
2. Close it completely and make sure it latches normally.
3. Wait several seconds and check the alarm panel again.
4. If it still shows open, inspect the sensor and magnet if they are visible.
5. Make sure neither piece appears loose, damaged, or significantly out of alignment.

Do not remove or disassemble the sensor unless you know the proper procedure for that device.

If the sensor still shows open

The sensor may have a low battery, tamper condition, alignment problem, communication problem, wiring problem, or hardware failure.

If your alarm panel displays a specific message for the affected sensor, note the exact message. This information can help determine the next troubleshooting step.

Bypassing a sensor

Some alarm systems allow an open or malfunctioning security sensor to be temporarily bypassed so the remainder of the system can be armed.

The bypass procedure varies depending on the alarm panel. Identify the make and model of your alarm panel before following bypass instructions.

Never bypass a smoke detector, carbon monoxide detector, heat detector, or other life-safety device simply to clear a trouble condition.

If you are unsure whether a device can safely be bypassed, contact CommTech Systems.

If multiple sensors show open

If several sensors suddenly show open at the same time, the problem may not be with each individual sensor. There could be a system, receiver, communication, power, or equipment issue.

Note which sensors are affected and contact CommTech Systems if normal opening and closing of the devices does not restore them.

When to contact CommTech Systems

Contact CommTech Systems for service if:

• A properly closed door or window continues to show open.
• The sensor is damaged or missing.
• Multiple sensors unexpectedly show trouble at the same time.
• The system reports a tamper or communication problem that will not clear.
• You are unable to determine which device is preventing the system from arming.
• You need assistance identifying your alarm panel or sensor.
• The affected device is a smoke, carbon monoxide, heat, or other life-safety device.

When requesting assistance, provide the exact message displayed by the alarm panel and the name of the affected zone or sensor if available.