Home Security Blog

Hi DIYers! Are you still looking for the perfect smart lock? We have some brand-new options available with the Yale YRL236 and Yale YRL256. Both options utilize Z-Wave Plus connectivity and make great additions to your growing smart home network. They are perfect for use with TC2 and ADC.

When it comes to choosing a Z-Wave Plus Smart Lock, you want to make sure that the device you choose is easy to use and does its job of keeping your home safe. With a proven company like Yale from Assa Abbloy, you can rely on these smart locks with complete and total confidence. It has never been this easy to protect your home.

The Assure Lever Locks from Yale feature aesthetically pleasing designs that fit-in nicely with any home decor. Both the YRL236 and YRL256 models come in three (3) different finish options. These are Polished Brass, Satin Nickel, and Oil Rubbed Bronze. We know that the stylish consumer will find the design that matches their home the best. After all, we know that appearance matters too.

There is one major difference between the YRL236 and YRL256 models. The YRL236 includes a more traditional acrylic push-button keypad, while the YRL256 uses an electronic touchscreen. The acrylic keys of the YRL236 are durable and specifically designed to not wear-off with repeated use. The touchscreen keypad of the YRL256 is state-of-the-art and perfect for users who want a more advanced experience.

Whether you choose the tried and true push-button keypad of the YRL236 or the futuristic touchscreen keypad of the YRL256, you can be sure that you are getting an exceptional smart device. Both options feature back-lighting, which means that you will have no trouble using your door lock at night when it's dark outside. Other built-in features include auto re-locking, privacy mode, and tamper alarms.

The YRL236 and YRL256 both pair nicely with any Z-Wave controller. We recommend using a Z-Wave Plus controller for optimal wireless range and battery life. Both of these Yale Smart Locks are excellent devices for your smart home. You can get both the YRL236 and the YRL256, plus many other smart home devices, right from the Alarm Grid website. We also encourage you to check out our alarm monitoring page so that you can learn more about accessing Total Connect 2.0 and Alarm.com.

If you have any questions about the YRL236, the YRL256, or any of our smart home products, please reach out to us. The best and most efficient way to ask us questions is to email support@alarmgrid.com. You may also call us at (888) 818-7728 during our regular business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to answering all your smart home questions!

Hi DIYers! We are thrilled to announce that the 2GIG GC3e is now available for purchase from Alarm Grid. Just a couple weeks ago we blogged about the new 2GIG GC2e System. Well now the other new wireless encrypted system from 2GIG is available as well. This is truly an exciting day!

The 2GIG GC3e Wireless Encrypted Security System is an upgrade over the existing 2GIG GC3 System in virtually every conceivable aspect. If you are already used to the original GC3, then you will have no problem transitioning to the GC3e. The system features a similar design, and it provides a familiar layout and user interface (UI) to help new users feel comfortable. But with its refreshed look, the GC3e fits in even better with most decor. End users are sure to love the sleeker design of this advanced new panel. Plus the 7" capacitive touchscreen looks absolutely beautiful. You can even set up a slideshow feature so that you and your guests can enjoy some pleasant pictures!

Of course, the GC3e is more than just a pretty face. It also provides support for the upcoming 2GIG Encrypted Sensors. Along with the GC2e, this panel will be the first-ever release from 2GIG with support for these devices. Wireless encryption is huge, as it makes these sensors virtually impossible for others to hack or takeover. This is crucial for anyone who wants to achieve the highest level of security possible for their home or business. Although the 2GIG Encrypted Sensor Lineup is still in development, you can currently use the existing 2GIG 345 MHz Sensors and the Honeywell 5800 Series Sensors with the GC3e. That's right, the system is backwards compatible! Up to 100 wireless zones can be added to the 2GIG GC3e.

The 2GIG Smart Areas feature has also returned for the GC3e. This allows users to set up four (4) distinct partitions. If you aren't familiar with partitioning, it refers to the ability to section-off an alarm system into multiple sections. You can control each section individually, without having to bypass a large number of zones. For example, you might arm one partition, while leaving the rest of the system disabled so that people can continue to move throughout those areas. 2GIG refers to these partitions as "Smart Areas", and each one can have its own access codes and zones. This feature is perfect for use in offices, multi-family homes, guest homes, and rental properties. And don't worry, you can still bypass individual zones within each partition when needed.

Z-Wave Plus functionality comes built right into the 2GIG GC3e. Its 500-Series Chipset lets you take full advantage of all of the great features that come with Z-Wave Plus. This includes extended wireless range and enhanced battery life with Z-Wave Plus devices. You can still use classic Z-Wave devices with the system as well. Just keep in mind that you will need to use Z-Wave Plus peripherals if you want maximum battery life and range. And by getting the system connected with Alarm.com, you will be able to control your smart home devices remotely from your Android or iOS device. You can also create smart scenes to have your Z-Wave devices activate automatically based on a schedule or with certain system events.

In order to access Alarm.com and receive alarm monitoring service, you will need two things. The first is an Alarm.com Cellular Communicator. You can choose from an AT&T LTE Communicator (coming soon!) and a Verizon LTE Communicator (available now). These modules are super easy to install, and they will provide your GC3e with the most reliable monitoring service available. Making things even better is that the system already comes with a built-in WIFI card. Once you add a cellular communicator, the GC3e will become dual-path ready. All you will need then is a monitoring plan. You will need a Gold or Platinum Level Plan from Alarm Grid to unlock the system's full potential. More information can be found on our alarm monitoring page.

In addition to its 100 wireless zones, the 2GIG GC3e supports two (2) on-board wired zones, up to 32 keyfob devices, up to eight (8) keypads (choose from 2GIG SP1, 2GIG SP2, and 2GIG PAD1-345), and up to 100 unique user codes. The GC3e receives power from a 1.7A 14VDC transformer that comes included. However, you will still need to provide your own wiring. We recommend using a Honeywell LT-Cable. Firmware updates for the GC3e can be pushed down over-the-air (OTA) from Alarm.com or applied locally using a USB drive.

If you have any questions about the 2GIG GC3e, you can always email us at support@alarmgrid.com. We will check your email at our earliest convenience and reply back as soon as possible. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you find the perfect alarm system for your home or business!

Hi DIYers! It's time for another Alarm Grid video recap! We have videos from all the usual team members. Those team members are Jarrett, Joe, and Jorge, and they're all here to help you learn how to use your security system. Let's check out the latest videos from the Alarm Grid video team!

Troubleshooting 2-Wire Smokes on the Qolsys Hardwire 16-F

Joe explains the best practices for troubleshooting 2-wire smoke detectors when they are used with a Qolsys Hardwire 16-F Wired to Wireless Converter. The Qolsys Hardwire 16-F supports 2-wire smoke detectors when they are wired at Zone 16. This wired to wireless converter can work with any 319.5 MHz wireless alarm system, including the 319.5 MHz version of the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus. Remember that you will need to wire the 2-wire smoke detectors to Zone 16 before enrolling the Hardwire 16-F with the system. You must also use a 4.7k end of line resistor.

Testing the Honeywell 5808W3 Smoke Detector on the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus

Jarrett rocks some protective ear gear while he explains how to test the Honeywell 5808W3 Smoke and Heat Detector on the 345 MHz version of the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus. The Honeywell 5808W3 Smoke and Heat Detector has a recessed test button that you can test using a thin object like a screwdriver. If you want to test the actual functionality of the sensor, you can use a hair dryer for the heat detection function and canned smoke for the smoke detection function. Always remember to put your system on test mode before testing this sensor!

Using Power over Ethernet (PoE) on Alarm.com Cameras

Joe discusses how you can use Power over Ethernet (PoE) with certain Alarm.com Cameras. Power over Ethernet means that the camera will receive both power and data from the same ethernet cable. This means that you will not need to connect a power adapter to the camera. You can just use the ethernet cable. This can help reduce installation time and allow you to utilize a more flexible wiring configuration. In order to complete a PoE setup, you may need a PoE injector like the Alarm.com ADC-POE-INJ. This will depend on the network switch or router being used.

Using the Qolsys IQ Siren with a Honeywell LYNX Touch Panel

Jorge explains how to use the Qolsys IQ Siren with a LYNX Touch System. The Qolsys IQ Siren is a Z-Wave Siren that communicates with a system wirelessly. To pair this siren with a LYNX Touch System, the panel must have an L5100-ZWAVE Module installed. Since these panels will see the IQ Siren as a light switch, you must create special scenes for it to work properly. You need a scene to activate the siren during intrusion alarms, a scene to activate the siren during fire alarms, and a scene to stop the siren when an alarm is cleared.

Zone Status Indications on the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus

Jarrett discusses the various zone status symbols that will appear next to zones on the main screen of the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus. The different statuses that can be displayed include Open, Closed, Active, Idle, Unreachable, and Tampered. The Open and Closed statuses are for door and window contact sensors. The Active and Idle statuses are for motion sensors, glass break sensors, environmental sensors, and life-safety sensors. The Unreachable status refers to a sensor experiencing loss of RF supervision. The Tampered status means that someone has activated the tamper cover for the sensor.

Hi DIYers! Are you looking for a reliable medical alert button for your elderly or mobility-challenged loved one? We have an answer with the Qolsys IQ Fall Pendant. This device will let your loved one live as independently as possible, while still being able to call for help when needed.

We know that having an elderly or mobility-challenged family member or loved one can present a tough dilemma. You want to respect their independence and privacy, but you also want to make sure that they can get help if you're not around. Medical alert buttons represent a good answer to this problem. Your loved one can continue to live on their own, but you will both know that help is available with the press of a button. We are sure that many users can get exactly the results they want with the IQ Fall Pendant.

The IQ Fall Pendant from Qolsys, which is also known as the QS1314-840, includes an attached 18-inch lanyard that is conveniently worn around the neck. Your family member or loved one can adjust the length of this lanyard so that it feels as comfortable as possible. Another convenience is the IP 45 water-resistant rating of the IQ Fall Pendant. This means that it can be safely brought in the bath or shower. Just make sure that it is not fully submerged for an extended period of time.

There are two (2) ways to activate the Qolsys IQ Fall Pendant. The standard method is to press and hold the center button. This button must be held down for a full half-second in order for it to activate. But the device also offers built-in fall detection using its integrated accelerometer. This way, if your family member or loved one experiences a fall and is unable to press the button, the device will still activate and alert the panel because of the rapid acceleration of the fall. As a safety precaution, you should instruct your loved one to always press and hold the center button after a fall. This is to make absolutely sure that the device activates when needed.

The IQ Fall Pendant is a 319.5 MHz medical alert button that was specifically created with the 319.5 MHz version of the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus in mind. But you can really use it with any 319.5 MHz alarm system. This includes the original Qolsys IQ Panel 2 and the Interlogix Alarm Panels. If you have a Resideo Lyric Security Panel or a 2GIG Panel, then you might consider using the 2GIG F1-345, which also offers automatic fall detection. If you have a different 345 MHz system, such as Honeywell LYNX Touch Panel, then the Honeywell 5802WXT is a strong option. Although the 5802WXT doesn't offer fall detection, it is still a reliable medical alert button. And if you have a PowerG-compatible system, then the DSC PG9938 is a strong choice as well.

Regardless of which sensor you choose, you will want to make sure that you have central station monitoring service to accompany the device. This is the only way to ensure that your loved one receives the help that they need during alarm events. A central station monitoring plan will connect your alarm system with a round-the-clock, 24/7 monitoring station for emergency help whenever an alarm occurs. If your loved one triggers an auxiliary medical alarm by activating their help button, a trained dispatcher will know to send help immediately. You can learn more about alarm monitoring by checking our monitoring page.

If you have any questions about the Qolsys IQ Fall Pendant or any of our wireless medical alert buttons, please reach out to us! The best way to contact us for questions is to email support@alarmgrid.com. We make sure to check our email often, and we will reply back to your email at our earliest convenience. Another option is to call us at (888) 818-7728 during our regular business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F. Our planning department will be happy to help you determine the best medical alert button for your needs. And remember that we offer free technical support for all our monitored customers. We look forward to hearing from you!

Last night, July 24th, 2019, Alarm.com was experiencing server issues. You may have noticed problems with signaling and with your interactive account. We would like to let all of our Alarm.com customers know that these issues have been resolved. The service should now be working properly.

All Alarm.com users should now find that they can successfully access the platform and that their systems can report to Alarm.com without issue. We apologize for any inconvenience that these problems with Alarm.com may have caused for you last night. But we are now happy to report that these issues should now be resolved

If you are an Alarm Grid customer and you are still experiencing any issues with your Alarm.com, we urge you to email us at support@alarmgrid.com immediately. We will check your email at our earliest convenience and work to get your service working as soon as possible. Again, we apologize for any inconvenience you may have experienced last night, and remember that our team is here to help.

Hi DIYers! We are excited to announce that we now have dual-path communicators available for the Interlogix Simon Series Systems. Compatible panels include the Simon XT (1.3+), Simon XTi, Simon XTi-5 and the upcoming Simon XTi-5i System. There are AT&T LTE and Verizon LTE options available.

If you are an Interlogix Simon user, then you know how important it is to add an alarm monitoring communicator to your system. These systems don't come with an integrated communicator, and you need to add one if you want reliable alarm monitoring service and connectivity with the Alarm.com platform. By accessing Alarm.com, you can arm and disarm your system, check current system status, control Z-Wave devices, and view your ADC Cameras from virtually anywhere in the world.

What's great about these new communicators is that they utilize dual-path connectivity across an LTE network and a local IP network. In other words, you get the ultra-fast speeds of IP monitoring, plus the full reliability of cellular connectivity. If one path goes down or becomes unavailable, the other path will be there to back it up. This is ideal for situations where the internet goes down or when an electrical outage takes your router offline. Your system will still have cellular service to fall back on.

You get more than just trustworthy dual-path connectivity with one of these new communicators. They are also effective Z-Wave Plus controllers that you can use to start building a complete smart home network. You can add classic Z-Wave and Z-Wave Plus devices to the panel for use with Alarm.com. This includes the ability to start creating smart scenes for automatic operation based on a set schedule or with certain system events. We recommend using Z-Wave Plus devices for optimal battery life and wireless signal range.

It's important to note that these are LTE and IP dual-path communicators. If you aren't aware, LTE stands for "Long-Term Evolution", and cellular service providers have promised to support their LTE networks well into the very distant future. By upgrading to one of these modules, you are ensuring that your Interlogix Alarm Panel can receive fast and reliable monitoring service for many years to come.

These dual-path communicators come in AT&T LTE and Verizon LTE options. Remember, this has nothing to do with the cellular service provider for your smartphone. You can certainly have an AT&T Smartphone and use a Verizon Communicator for your alarm system, or vice-versa. You should simply choose whichever service provider works more effectively in your area. The new communicators are as follows:

• Alarm.com XT-511-US-DP-AT - AT&T LTE & IP Communicator
• Alarm.com XT-511-US-DP-VZ - Verizon LTE & IP Communicator

Remember, you will need a Self Gold Level Plan or higher from Alarm Grid to use these communicators. This is the only way to gain access to the Alarm.com platform for security and smart home control. More information about our alarm monitoring plans is available on our alarm monitoring page.

If you have any questions about these new Interlogix Dual-Path Communicators, please reach out to us. The best way to contact us is to email support@alarmgrid.com. We will check this email at our earliest convenience and reply back as soon as possible. You may also call us at (888) 818-7728 during our regular business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to hearing from you.

After much anticipation, Resideo has finally released the Honeywell LYRICLTE-V Verizon LTE Communicator for their flagship Lyric Security System. This now gives Lyric users a choice between two fantastic cellular coverage options in the AT&T LTE Network and the Verizon LTE Network.

For anyone who doesn't know, an alarm monitoring communicator is a very important accessory for an alarm system. This is the device that allows the panel to send and receive the signals that are necessary for alarm monitoring and remote smart home control. The Resideo Lyric Controller comes with a built-in WIFI card for this purpose. But you can also add a cellular communicator to serve as a backup communication path in case the internet ever goes down or becomes unavailable.

Previously, Lyric System users were restricted to the Honeywell LYRICLTE-A AT&T LTE Communicator for cellular backup. This presented a problem for Lyric System users in areas not covered by the AT&T LTE Network. These users were forced to forgo the ever-important cellular backup for their systems. The Honeywell LYRICLTE-V Verizon LTE Communicator finally provides a much-needed answer for these users.

It is also important to pay special mention to the Verizon LTE Network itself. LTE stands for "Long-Term Evolution". Cellular service providers like Verizon have been working hard to establish robust and powerful infrastructure for their LTE Networks over the past several years. These networks are not going away any time soon. The LTE networks represent both the present and the future for cellular communication.

By choosing an LTE communicator like the LYRICLTE-V, you are ensuring that your Lyric System can remain monitored for many years to come. Even as Resideo prepares to release the upcoming Resideo PROA7PLUS Wireless Security System, your Lyric Alarm System will still be supported. It will continue to work great for alarm monitoring and for smart home automation. The importance of the Honeywell LYRICLTE-V is that it is providing a long-term solution for your panel. This is more than just a communicator. This is a long-term investment to keep your Lyric Controller monitored well into the very distant future.

The LYRICLTE-V module is super easy to install. The process can be completed by any end user. First put the system into its cellular installation mode. You can do this by starting from the main screen and choosing Security > Tools > enter Master Code (default 1234, but usually changed) > Advanced > Install Cellular Module > Yes. Then just follow the onscreen instructions by pushing up on the right-side cover for the panel to reveal the cellular communicator slot. Insert the LYRICLTE-V, and reapply the side cover. Indicate on the Lyric Screen that you have installed the communicator, and the system will complete the process. You will then be able to activate the communicator for monitoring service. Be sure you have a monitoring plan that includes cellular communication before adding the module.

With its new cell card, your Lyric System will now be capable of utilizing dual-path communication. This means that it will be able to send and receive signals across IP and cellular. IP communication normally serves as the primary communication path, as it is usually faster than cellular. But having that cellular backup is crucial for ensuring that your system always stays monitored and connected. As long as one path is available, your Lyric System will be able to perform all of the functions necessary for alarm monitoring. This includes staying connected with the AlarmNet Servers and Total Connect 2.0.

In order to support the LYRICLTE-V Verizon LTE Communicator, your Lyric System must be running Firmware Update MR9 or higher. As of summer 2019, this is the latest firmware release for the Lyric System. To upgrade the firmware, your Lyric System will need to be connected with the AlarmNet Servers. Since you won't be able to use the cellular communicator until you have MR9, you will need to use a WIFI connection to complete the upgrade.

Keep in mind that if you don't have WIFI access in your primary location, you can bring your Lyric Panel to a different location with WIFI access just for the sake of the upgrade. Then install and activate the LYRICLTE-V, and use a cellular-only path in your primary location. We know that many users don't have WIFI access in their homes. This work-around is perfect for these users, as they can get their systems on the necessary firmware and then use the communication path that works best for their situation. For more information on the MR9 Firmware Update, we strongly recommend reviewing this very recent blog post from Alarm Grid.

Finally, you will need an alarm monitoring plan that includes cellular communication if you want to take advantage of all the benefits that this communicator has to offer. Alarm Grid customers will want to choose a Gold Level monitoring plan or higher to unlock the full potential of the module. This will allow you to activate the communicator with Alarm Grid and provide you with access to the Total Connect 2.0 platform for remote security and smart home functionality. More information is available on our alarm monitoring page.

If you are not interested in Total Connect 2.0, we also offer a Cellular-Only Plan that will provide standard central station monitoring service and connectivity through cellular or cellular and IP. While we strongly recommend taking advantage of all the great features and remote access capabilities of Total Connect 2.0, we understand that some users may just want to keep things simple with non-interactive monitoring service. This Cellular-Only Plan is certainly an option if you want to activate a LYRICLTE-V module for no-frills alarm monitoring.

We are proud to say that the Honeywell LYRICLTE-V Verizon LTE Communicator is now available for purchase on our site. This is the communicator recommended for any Lyric user who finds that Verizon service works best in their area. If you have better coverage from AT&T, the Honeywell LYRICLTE-A AT&T LTE Communicator is still available. Remember, this has nothing to do with your standard cellular service provider. Your alarm system is completely separate from your smartphone. You can have an AT&T Phone and a Verizon Communicator for your alarm system. You should just pick whichever service works best in your area.

If you have any questions about the Lyric Alarm System, the new LYRICLTE-V Verizon LTE Cellular Communicator, or about alarm monitoring in general, please reach out to us. The best way to contact us is to email support@alarmgrid.com. We check our email super regularly, and we make sure to reply to any inquiry as soon as possible. You also have the option of calling us at (888) 818-7728 during our regular business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to hearing from you and answering all your important questions.

Hi DIYers! We know how important it can be to beat the summer heat with a new smart thermostat. That is why we are presenting you with our very own best smart thermostats of 2019. These devices all make fantastic additions to any growing smart home, and they are perfect for daily use.

A smart thermostat is great because you can program it to save huge amounts of money on your energy bills, while still keeping your home nice and cool when needed. You can integrate these devices with excellent platforms like Alarm.com, Total Connect 2.0, and even Apple HomeKIt. Just be aware that platform compatibility will vary between different devices. Make sure you purchase a smart thermostat that is compatible with the network you want to use.

With that out of the way, let's take a look at the best thermostats of 2019:

Honeywell T6 Pro Smart Thermostat

Resideo really outdid themselves with the Honeywell T6 Pro Smart Programmable Thermostat. This is the only thermostat on this list that comes in two (2) distinct flavors. These are a Z-Wave Plus version and an Apple HomeKit version. Regardless of which version you choose, you get a neat and clean UI that even new users will feel comfortable using. A unique aspect of this thermostat is that the Z-Wave Plus model does not require a C-wire for power. Instead, the device can run reliably on battery power alone. However, the HomeKit version requires the C-wire connection for WIFI communication. And although the Z-Wave Plus version was built for use with Total Connect 2.0, you can still use it with other networks like Alarm.com and Samsung SmartThings. Just know that it was designed with TC2 in mind.

Best for: Total Connect 2.0 users, Apple HomeKit users.

Alarm.com ADC-T3000 Smart Thermostat

Created specifically for Alarm.com users, the ADC-T3000 offers all the advanced features you would expect out of a robust and powerful smart thermostat. This is a Z-Wave Plus Thermostat which integrates perfectly with any Alarm.com Security System. Although you can technically use this device with other smart platforms like Total Connect 2.0 or Samsung SmartThings, it works best when used with Alarm.com. With the ADC-T3000, you can take advantage of great features like Alarm.com Geofencing, external temperature detection, humidity sensing, smart programming, and more.

Best for: Alarm.com users.

iDevices Smart WIFI Thermostat

The iDevices Smart WIFI Thermostat, also known as the iDevices IDEV0005AND4, was built for users who want a reliable and affordable smart thermostat, but don't necessarily want to integrate it with their alarm control panel. While its WIFI connectivity will not allow you to use the thermostat with Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com, this product is great for those who use smart, voice control platforms like Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, and Google Home. The iDevices Smart WIFI Thermostat boasts an easy-to-use color-coded touchscreen, along with push-button controls. It fits in nicely with any decor, and no external hub is needed to use the thermostat. You can also use the convenient iDevices Connected App on iOS and Android devices to easily control the smart thermostat from anywhere.

Best for: Apple HomeKit users, Amazon Alexa users, Google Home users.

Carrier Côr Smart WIFI Thermostat

Apple HomeKit and Amazon Alexa users looking for a premium smart thermostat can get great results out of the Carrier Côr Smart WIFI Thermostat. Although this thermostat is unable to integrate with alarm panels, it is still loaded with features that make it one of the best smart thermostats available. The typical homeowner saves 20% on their heating and cooling costs with this Energy Star Certified Thermostat. End users also appreciate the local 4-day weather forecast that is conveniently displayed on the main screen. Other features include Ideal Humidity System Management, Hybrid Heat Management, Ideal Away, and Intelligent Comfort to help the thermostat control the temperature more accurately. This thermostat features a 7-day programming schedule and auto-adjusting between heating and cooling.

Best for: Apple HomeKit users, Amazon Alexa users.

Need Help Choosing a Smart Thermostat?

If you are having trouble deciding on the perfect smart thermostat for your home or business, please reach out to us! Our team is happy to discuss the pros and cons of each thermostat so that you can make the best purchasing decision for your needs. Remember, the best way to reach us is to always email support@alarmgrid.com. We will check your email at our earliest convenience and respond back as soon as possible. You may also call our planning department during our regular business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F at (888) 818-7728. We look forward to helping you beat the heat with a brand-new smart thermostat from Alarm Grid!

Hi DIYers! We have a simple, yet effective tip for you today. The tip is to keep a second key fob device by your bed for easy access. This can be a great way to trigger a panic and scare off an intruder if you hear a break-in. You can also use this key fob as a backup for your main one.

Being woken up in the middle of the night due to a break-in can be a very scary feeling. Most users will arm their systems to stay mode at night so that an alarm will occur if someone tries to break-in. But maybe you forgot to arm your system, or maybe you want to activate a siren to try and scare off the intruder. In that case, having a key fob next to your bed can be very helpful.

Most key fobs have a designated panic button that you can use to activate an immediate intrusion alarm. By pressing and holding this button, you are telling your system that you are in danger and that help is needed immediately. It's a great resource to have in these rare, but extremely scary, situations. Just be aware that some panels may require you to specially enroll the panic zone. Additionally, some key fobs may require dual-button presses to activate panics.

Once you activate the panic button, your system will immediately go into alarm. This can involve triggering a siren to scare off any intruders. Alternatively, you could set up a silent alarm so that the police show up without the intruder knowing. However, a loud, audible alarm will be much more effective in scaring away an intruder. You might even set up on input for an audible alarm and another for a silent alarm. It's up to you.

But keeping a key fob next to your bed is more for than just having an option for triggering a panic in the middle of the night. It's also good to have a second key fob as a backup option in case you lose or misplace your first one. You can always grab the other key fob by your bed if you need to quickly grab a fob. You can also use it to set your system to arm stay from your bed if you forgot to do so while you were by your panel or keypad earlier.

Remember, a key fob isn't the only way to access your system remotely. You can always access your system from your Android or iOS device through Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com. Both of these platforms offer mobile apps allow you to arm and disarm your system from anywhere. Just keep in mind that you will need a monitoring plan to use TC2 or ADC. And of course, you can always dial 911 if you believe you are in a dangerous situation. But a key fob panic can still be useful in certain situations.

And if you just want a simple device for triggering panic alarms without having arming and disarming functions, we offer standalone panic buttons as well. These are convenient devices that you can activate if you hear something suspicious to trigger an immediate system alarm. You might also consider getting outdoor sirens that you can activate to try and scare away anyone lurking outside your home. And remember that if you have monitoring service, you can set up how your system responds during alarm events. This includes what action(s) the central station will take and when you receive text, email, and/or push notifications regarding any triggered panics.

If you do decide to get additional key fob devices or a panic button for your system, you will need to make sure they are compatible. Our team can help you with that. Remember that we offer free support for all our monitored customers. We can help you determine the perfect key fob option for your needs so that you can your family can feel safe at home. The best way to contact us is to email support@alarmgrid.com. We will check your email at our earliest convenience and reply back as soon as possible. We look forward to hearing from you!

Hi DIYers! This weekend is very special for Alarm Grid. Saturday, July 20th, 2019 is our 7th anniversary! Our entire team is super excited, and we hope that you are too. We wouldn't have been able to achieve this success without the support of our monitored customers. Thank you so much!

To celebrate, most of our staff will be going on a "team-building exercise" the afternoon of Friday, July 19th. This "team-building exercise" is going to start at 3:30pm EST. We will still maintain all normal operations until our regularly scheduled closing time of 8pm EST that night. But please understand that we will have a lighter staff than usual. We appreciate your understanding.

Don't worry, our "team-building exercise" is strictly for training purposes. We certainly aren't doing anything fun like going to a super cool video game lounge with an open bar so that we can all hang out and play arcade games. What do you take us for? This is strictly business ;)

Thanks again to all the customers who have supported Alarm Grid throughout the years. We are truly grateful for your continued patronage. If you have any questions, you can always email us at support@alarmgrid.com. We will check your email at our earliest convenience and respond back as soon as we can. Thanks again, and we look forward to hearing from you.