Problem with Security System

[GaryWI]

Hello - I am new to this forum and hope someone here can help me.

We have an ADT security system that has been fine since it's installation in 2003 when our house was built. However, a couple of months ago the alarm wouldn't set because it detected a problem with a window sensor. I called ADT and they said they would send a technician out to attempt to find the problem but it would cost a fortune (which I can't afford). I think the problem might have something to do with the trim and insulation work I did around the windows of our house - maybe I somehow disrupted a wire?

Our security system consists of door sensors, window sensors, motion detectors and smoke alarms. Based upon the keypad, I think it's a window causing the problem. We are still able to arm the system by using the bypass function, but I know that's not a good solution.

Is there a way for me to test each window sensor? The keypad doesn't narrow it down for me and rather than rip the trim off of all of our windows, I'd prefer to only tear apart the problem window.

Thanks for any help!

 

[Steve]

Hi Gary - Welcome to CocoonTech!

Do you have a multimeter? That would be the simplest way of finding the wire. I'm guessing maybe the wire was cut during your work so it is now open and the panel thinks it is violated. You can confirm that using your multimeter. It may be a little tricky if there are multiple sensors on that zone though, but still very doable. Doesn't the keypad show you what zone you are bypassing? That should at least tell you what wires on the panel to start with.

 

[CollinR]

How many total zones do you have?

Is your system made by Ademco/Honeywell for ADT?

Can you take a picture of the inside of the control panel?

Take a close up of the main terminals 8 through 20 or whatever they go to.




Unfortunately the reality is you may wind up permenately disabling the wiring to that window.