FAQs - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION

1.  Will my security system work with digital phone service?  In almost all cases, your security system relies on proper operation of the telephone line and its associated special security wiring, to reliably communicate alarm signals to the central station.  With a self-installed VoIP service such as Vonage or AT&T Call Vantage your security system may lose its connection to the telephone service, rendering the system unable to send signals to the central station.  With digital telephone service offered by your cable provider your system may be unable to consistently and reliably send alarm signals to the central station. 
Either way, there is significant risk that your security system will not be able to communicate an emergency signal to the central station.  We encourage you to check with us before making any changes to your existing telephone service.  If you have already switched to VoIP or digital phone service, it is extremely important that you contact us now.  We will arrange a service call to properly test your security system.

2. How do GFCI Receptacles work?  Should I be concerned it I have one that trips?    A GFCI receptacle is designed to protect you from shocks and overloads.  GFCI’s work by monitoring the current on the hot and neutral wire.  If there is a difference between them, no matter how small, the GFCI will sense the fault and turn itself off.  If you have a GFCI that continues to turn off please call us to schedule a service call.

3. Do circuit breakers trip often, or do fuses keep blowing?  Should I be concerned?  A home electrical system has three built-in safeguards to prevent electrical overload.  Too much causes the breakers to open automatically, or the fuses to melt.  When a circuit shuts down repeatedly, it’s a warning that you should not ignore.  Please give us a call so the circuit can be checked.

4. How safe are extension cords in my home? Electrical receptacles, especially in older homes are often spaced too far apart for modern living.  This not only creates too much demand on too few receptacles, it also poses a hazard when the extension cords are under rugs and furniture.  Installing additional receptacles can be done easily and at a reasonable price. 

5. Should the switches and receptacles feel warm or tingly? Loose or deteriorating electrical connections, such as wiring junctions in switches and receptacles, impede current flow and create resistance.  This may create a dangerous condition that can result in shock or fire.  If you are experiencing this in your home please call us to schedule a service call.

6. What should I do if I come home and part of my home has no electrical power? First call your power company, i.e. Duke Energy.  They could have a transformer that is not operating properly.  If that is not the case then give us a call so we can check your electrical system and find the cause of the problem.