Industry News and Discussions Posts

One happy bulldog named Maggie has recently returned home to California after a four-year cross-country excursion, during which she helped lead to the arrest and capture of two alleged Florida burglars. Her owner is absolutely thrilled to have Maggie back, in what is truly a feel-good story.

Photo Credit - Sarasota Police Department

In October of 2015, Maggie the bulldog was stolen from her home by an alleged burglar. The suspected thief apparently decided to take Maggie across the country to Florida. With Maggie in tow, the individual and an accomplice allegedly committed a string of burglaries throughout the Lido Key area of Florida's Gulf Coast. Authorities have since connected these two individuals to eight different burglaries in the area.

Witnesses reported seeing a white bulldog with the alleged thieves around the time of the crimes. In one instance, the bulldog was even seen inside one of the burglarized homes. It's a good bet that security cameras caught footage of the alleged criminals who decided to bring their stolen furry friend along for these burglaries.

Someone later spotted one of the suspects walking a bulldog matching the description. The suspect and their accomplice were eventually found hiding inside a home's bathroom. They were both identified and arrested on multiple felony charges, including burglary and trespassing. Local authorities say that they believe one of these individuals stole Maggie from her California home back in 2015.

An electronic tracking chip helped Florida officials identify the small white bulldog as Maggie from California. They then started working with the owner to arrange for Maggie's safe return. Due to health concerns, Maggie was unable to make the trip by flight. But several local police officers all chipped in funds and arranged for Maggie to get a ground transport trip home. It wasn't long before Maggie the Bulldog was reunited with her rightful owners, who prefer to remain anonymous.

Genevieve Judge of the Sarasota Police Department in Florida said, "They were overjoyed and couldn't wait to have her home."

While this story has a happy ending, it's only because witnesses were able to identify Maggie as the "white bulldog" seen at the crimes. It's very important that you have a monitored security system in your home in case you are ever the victim of a burglary. An activated alarm system is the best way to scare-off an intruder and ensure that help arrives on the scene as quickly as possible.

If you want to learn more about the monitoring services offered from Alarm Grid, check out our monitoring page, or email us at support@alarmgrid.com. Remember that our support hours run from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

We have learned that Alarm.com is now offering a new solar power monitoring feature. This feature allows Alarm.com users to track their solar power usage and monitor their estimated savings. Users can conveniently track their solar power consumption through the Alarm.com Mobile App.

In order to use the solar monitoring feature, the Solar Monitoring Service Package Add-On must be applied to your Alarm.com account. Alarm Grid will apply this add-on at no additional cost for any customer with active Alarm.com service through Alarm Grid. Simply let us know that you would like to have the service added, and we will take care of the rest.

By using the Alarm.com Solar Monitoring feature, you can track power consumption data for the past day, week, 30 days, and last 12 months. You can also view any estimated power savings that have occurred as a result of your solar power usage. Alarm.com says that they hope having access to this information will help users make smarter decisions regarding their household energy usage.

Please note that this feature is only compatible with SolarEdge and Enphase Solar Inverters. This covers roughly 90% of all solar panels currently used in the United States. If you are not sure which type of solar panels you have, check with your solar power company. They should have that information readily available for you.

Additionally, each Alarm.com account can only support one (1) solar inverter system. And each solar power system can only be associated to a single Alarm.com account. Keep this in mind when using the Alarm.com Solar Monitoring feature. Also remember that you will need a cellular alarm monitoring plan with access to Alarm.com to get started.

If you want to learn more about Alarm.com Solar Monitoring, or if you would like to have this feature added to your existing Alarm.com account, please reach out to us! The best way to contact us is to email support@alarmgrid.com. Remember that our support hours run from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. And if you don't yet have access to Alarm.com, check our monitoring page for more information. We look forward to hearing from you!

Suffering from a serious house fire is an unfortunate reality that many people experience every single year. Understanding the most common causes of house fire can help you take preventive measures and stay prepared. With our helpful tips, you can prevent a serious fire in your home!

As a homeowner, it is your duty to make sure that your house is equipped to detect a fire and receive a prompt emergency response. This means installing an alarm system and programming enough smoke and heat detectors to cover the entirety of your house. You should have at least one smoke detector on every floor of your house. There should also be a smoke detector inside each bedroom, as well as inside each large central area, such as living rooms and dens. Hallways are also great locations for smoke detectors. Meanwhile, you can install standalone heat detectors inside areas not suitable for smoke detectors, such as kitchens, garages, attics and bathrooms.

However, a smoke and heat detector won't actually stop a fire from occurring. It will only alert you and/or a central monitoring station to a fire that is already in progress. That is why you need to take proper precautions to prevent fires in your home. If you know how most fires occur, then you can properly do you part to prevent them. With that out of the way, here are the top 10 causes for house fires and ways that you can prevent them.

10. Household Lighting

A light bulb housed inside a glass lighting fixture or light globe has the potential of starting a fire if it is not set up properly. This is especially true if it is very close to a lamp shade or something flammable. Also, knocking over a lamp onto the carpet can cause a fire if you are not careful.

Solution: Make sure to use light bulbs that comply with the recommended wattage specification of the lighting fixture. Also try not to leave lights left on overnight or while you are away. And remember to not place anything flammable around your lights and light bulbs!

9. Flammable Liquids

Many fires in the home occur to the careless use of flammable liquids. This usually concerns fuels such as gasoline or kerosene. However, some fires even occur due to rubbing alcohol or liquor that has been spilled and exposed to an open flame.

Solution: Always label your flammable liquids, and put them in a safe area away from heating sources and open flames. Make sure the other members of your household know not to use these liquids outside of their intended purposes.

8. Outdoor Barbecues

Barbecues are a lot of fun, but they can also turn into a fire hazard! A malfunctioning or greasy grill can cause a fire, as can general carelessness. A gas or propane leak can also result in a serious fire. If the fire manages to reach a tablecloth or household wall, disaster can strike.

Solution: Never use faulty or barbecue equipment, and make sure your grill is cleaned regularly. Always supervise your grill station while cooking to make sure a fire does not occur. You might also consider using natural gas and propane detectors. You might also consider the 2GIG STVGRL1-345 for compatible systems to make sure you do not leave your grill on.

7. Christmas Trees

Christmas trees are a must-have for the holiday season! But they can result in a house fire if you aren't careful. This is especially true if you have a dried-out tree that is surrounded by Christmas lights. Keep in mind that this can potentially happen with any holiday lights!

Solution: Keep your Christmas tree hydrated by watering it regularly and removing any dead wood from the trunk that would prevent it from soaking up water. Make sure you turn off your lights when you go to sleep. If you really want to be careful, just get an artificial fire-safe Christmas tree.

6. Candles

Candles smell great, and they really brighten up a room. But they are also an obvious fire hazard. Some carelessness can quickly result in a house fire and some expensive damage!

Solution: Never leave candles unattended, and make sure you put them out before you leave or go to sleep. Also remember to keep them away from flammable objects like tissue boxes and books. And be sure to avoid knocking a candle over!

5. Electrical Appliances

Many electrical appliances like toasters and clothes dryers can cause fires. This is often the case when the appliance has access to something flammable nearby, such as paper towels or cotton.

Solution: Check your appliances regularly, and replace them if they are faulty. Make sure to supervise your electrical equipment when it is in use. It is also a good idea to keep up with proper maintenance, including cleaning the lint trap in your dryer.

4. Curious Children

If there are children in your household, then they might be curious to know what happens if an object catches fire. A silly mistake or genuine curiosity could result in the end of your home.

Solution: Teach your kids fire-safety at an early age, and make sure they understand the consequences of playing with fire. Supervise younger children, and make sure they are not putting your home at risk. You might even want to enroll your children in a fire-safety class at a school or with your local fire department. Make it a family activity, and consider it a good learning experience for yourself as well.

3. Smoking Indoors

It's your home! If you want to smoke indoors, then that is your right. But just be aware that it can lead to a fire if you aren't careful. Many fires occur in bedrooms while smoking. This is often the case when the person smoking is under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Solution: To be extra cautious, you should restrict smoking to outdoor areas only. If you really want to smoke indoors, try to avoid doing it in bed or around flammable objects. Better yet, take up vaping, or quit the habit altogether.

2. Heating Equipment

We get it - you need your heater to get through those rough winter months! Maybe you even have a Japanese-style kotatsu that you absolutely love? But that comfort device can quickly result in a fire if you aren't careful.

Solution: Keep your space heating devices away from flammable items and objects like laundry and curtains. Avoid knocking these devices over, and don't use them while unattended. And if you have a furnace, have it inspected regularly!

1. Cooking

Most fires occur in the kitchen due to cooking accidents. It really shouldn't come as much of a surprise. The kitchen is the number one source of fires in the home.

Solution: We would love to tell you to just eat out and avoid cooking altogether. But that isn't really feasible. Instead, we'll just have to give you the same old message as always. Follow safe cooking practices, and never leave your oven or stove unattended. Also make sure to install heat detectors in your kitchen. Maybe take a cooking class if you have a tendency to burn dinner!

If you have any questions about fire-safety, you can always reach out to us for help! The best way to contact us is to email support@alarmgrid.com. Just remember that we usually only respond to emails during our regular business hours of 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

If you live in the United States, then there's a good chance you have seen marijuana dispensaries popping up on nearly every street. If you're getting involved in the budding industry, then you will definitely want to look into alarm monitoring service. And Alarm Grid is happy to help.

Marijuana dispensaries and CBD sales can represent lucrative investment opportunities for many entrepreneurs. But these businesses are also at very high-risk for burglaries and armed robberies. You absolutely need to have a plan in place if you are getting involved in the cannabis industry. Additionally, many alarm monitoring companies are hesitant to support marijuana dispensaries for a variety of reasons. In fact, many major alarm companies have federal contracts that forbid them from engaging in any relationship with stores selling medical or recreational cannabis. It can be a real challenge to find a monitoring company for your recreational or medical marijuana dispensary.

Alarm Grid is an independent company that provides top-quality alarm monitoring services for a variety of businesses and companies across the United States and Canada. This includes several marijuana dispensaries located throughout the country. We have zero federal contracts that will prevent us from providing you with the protection you need for your business. We promise to offer you the same excellent security and support that we offer for any other business. The fact that you are involved in the cannabis industry is of absolutely no concern to us. You are running a business, and you deserve the same high-level of security just like anyone else who signs-up for our services.

Alarm Grid is a leading alarm monitoring company. However, we use a unique business model where any equipment you use will need to be installed by yourself or by a third-party installer. We do not roll any trucks, and all technical support is provided over the phone or online. However, you should find that your new security system is very easy to install. In fact, many panels and sensors can be installed using nothing more than a screwdriver, a desk stand, and some double-sided foam tape. And a more professional-looking mounted setup can be easily achieved with just a few holes and screws. You should also find that programming a new wireless alarm system is super simple. Our technicians are happy to help you throughout the process as well. You will have your new marijuana dispensary security system up and running in no time at all!

If you are the owner of a marijuana dispensary looking for alarm monitoring services, please reach out to us! We can tell you more about our services and help you find the best security system for your growing business. The best way to contact us is to email support@alarmgrid.com. You may also call us at (888) 818-7728. Just remember that our usual business hours run from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Alarm Grid was recently featured in a Porch.com article about home security systems. The article answers many common questions that homeowners have about alarm systems, and it offers some good advice for users who are new to home security. We are proud to have been featured in the article.

We are always pleased when other publications make use of our vast resources and expertise. It's nice to see our knowledge being put to good use. The folks about Porch.com really put together a helpful article in this case. We recommend checking it out if you are just getting started with home security and you are considering a new system or are a first-time buyer.

The section of the article that features Alarm Grid covers the importance of audio functionality on a home security system. We recommend that every system has a functional siren. Even if you don't want an audible intrusion alarm on your system, you will likely still want a siren for any life-safety alarms, including any smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms.

For most residential users, a simple 85 dB to 90 dB siren will work just fine. Most wireless panels have this type of siren built right in. Wired panels can usually have a small siren added quite easily. And don't forget that many smoke detectors and carbon monoxide sensors will have their own built-in sounders. Spreading out the sound like this and having multiple sirens activate during a life-safety alarm can be very important for ensuring everyone in the home is alerted to the emergency.

We should also keep in mind that users with larger homes and/or multiple partitions may want more powerful sirens that can transmit sounds across a greater distance. While this isn't necessarily something that most homeowners will need, it is something that can certainly be added to most systems. There is usually a creative solution that can be implemented with the right problem solving, whether it be a wireless siren like the DSC PG9911B or a wired Z-Wave siren relay like the FortrezZ MIMOlite.

Of course, siren functionality isn't the only sound used with an alarm system. Many users like to have chimes and voice annunciation set up with their systems. These features can be very useful for knowing if someone has opened a door or window or if a family member has returned home. These features come standard on many systems, and we are happy to help you set them up the way that you like.

We also expect that audio integrations will become a bigger part of alarm systems in the near future. The past few years have presented an explosion in the popularity of smart home automation, and it is being shown time after time that security systems can do more than just keep you and your family safe. we believe that the ability to stream music and podcasts will play a big role in this developing phenomenon.

Alarm.com has already introduced their Sonos integration that allows users to launch Sonos sound from the Alarm.com Mobile App and include their smart speakers with smart scenes. And when looking at the upcoming Qolsys IQ Hub, we will be shocked if Qolsys doesn't present some interesting new features that utilize the prominent speaker on the front of the panel. Indeed, we could see the lines between security systems and entertainment centers start to blur in the very near future.

Whether you are wanting the very latest in audio entertainment technology, or you just want a simple system that will alert you and your family during a burglary or fire, we at Alarm Grid are happy to help. If you are just getting started, you are invited to check out our monitoring page to learn more about the services we offer. You can also send us an email at support@alarmgrid.com if you have any questions or want more information. We look forward to hearing from you soon.

Just like any residence, an apartment is at-risk for a burglary or break-in. An unlocked door or a shattered window offers an easy entrance for an intruder. With an apartment security system you can be ready if this occurs. But picking a system can be daunting with so many options available!

Luckily, Alarm Grid is here to help you pick the best apartment alarm system for your needs. A good apartment security system usually features a wireless panel that can be installed using a desk or table stand. This will allow you to easily take the system with you when you move, and it will prevent you from having to drill holes in the wall. The wireless sensors can similarly be mounted using double-sided foam tape, and they can be easily removed if you relocate. You may also want the panel to include some cool smart home automation features to make your life more convenient.

It is strongly recommended that you select an apartment security system that is non-proprietary. This means that you will be able to take it to a new monitoring company if you cancel your current service. A great option is to go with a DIY no-contract alarm monitoring company like Alarm Grid. Our company does not charge you anything to start or stop monitoring service, which is really convenient if you ever need to take a month off of service while you are moving. We also offer systems that are super quick and easy to install without having to hire a professional installer!

With that in mind, we have our picks for the top 5 apartment security systems of 2019. All of these systems work great if you are looking to set up your own apartment alarm system that you can take with you if you decide to move later on. These systems are all very easy to use, and you can set them up in a matter of minutes. Let's check out the systems!

5. Interlogix Simon XTi-5i

Interlogix has long been known for their cost-effective systems. While they are ceasing operations at the end of the year, they are leaving us with a very good system. The Interlogix Simon XTi-5i is great if you need a no-frills alarm panel for basic operation. It has a 5-inch touchscreen display, support for up to 80 wireless zones, and some great communicators available, including some dual-path options. Adding a communicator will also make the system Z-Wave ready. You can even choose from an exclusive lineup of Interlogix Encrypted Sensors to add to the system. And for apartments, there is an excellent table stand you can buy for the system!

4. 2GIG GC2e

The 2GIG GC2e is the current entry-level option from 2GIG. It packs some great features into a small package, and it provides some nice upgrades over its 2GIG GC2 predecessor. With the GC2e, you will enjoy a larger 5-inch touchscreen, built-in Z-Wave Plus, and support for 2GIG eSeries Encrypted Sensors. Some other specs include support for up to 60 wireless zones and 64 different user codes. Remember to add a cellular communicator so that you can use with system for monitoring service through Alarm.com. And don't forget about the desk mount!

3. 2GIG GC3e

2GIG offers an impressive high-end security system with their GC3e. It still retains a lot of similarities to the discontinued 2GIG GC3, while offering some new upgrades in its own right. Namely, the panel now supports the 2GIG eSeries Encrypted Sensors, and it offers a fresh redesign over its predecessor. Returning features to the GC3e include a 7-inch touchscreen, support for up to 100 wireless zones, 100 user codes, partitioning, integrated WIFI, and built-in Z-Wave Plus. Note that you will still need a cellular communicator to monitor the system and use it with Alarm.com. Interestingly, the system uses the same desk mount as the 2GIG GC2e.

2. Honeywell Lyric Controller

There are many reasons why we can confidently say that the Honeywell Lyric Security System is one of the best panels on the market today. It is one of very few panels (and currently the only one on this list) that can support Apple HomeKit. The Lyric offers a very impressive 128 wireless zones, 64 user codes, built-in Z-Wave, and a 7-inch touchscreen. You will have no trouble filling up the zones with Honeywell SiX Series Sensors, which offer military-grade 128-bit encryption! Other features include a built-in 2MP camera for disarm photos and ten (10) different chime settings.

The panel also comes with built-in WIFI, and unlike the other systems on this list, it can be monitored across IP only. Not only does this mean you do not need to add a communicator, you can use the Lyric on a less expensive IP-only monitoring plan. This is perfect for users looking to cut-down on monitoring costs. But you can still add a Lyric Cellular Communicator if you want. The Honeywell LCP500-DK is the recommended desk mount.

1. Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus

There is so much to like about the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus as an apartment security system. It is sleek and modern with its thin profile and beautiful 7-inch touchscreen. You will love its built-in glass break sensor, integrated 5MP camera, and support for up to four (4) partitions. This is also the only system on the list that is dual-path ready right out of the box, as it has both an LTE communicator (AT&T or Verizon) and a WIFI card. You can even live-stream compatible Alarm.com Cameras right from the panel once you have connected the system with Alarm.com.

Other features include built-in Z-Wave Plus technology for smart home integrations, as well as integrated Bluetooth for optional automatic disarming. If that weren't enough, the system offers support for PowerG Sensors, as well as one legacy frequency (319.5 MHz, 345 MHz, or 433 MHz). The PowerG support is particularly useful, as PowerG Sensors utilize military grade 128-bit AES encryption and a wireless range of up to 2,000 feet away from the panel. This is way further than you will likely need in an apartment, but it's still cool nonetheless! A standard desk mount comes included with the system, but you can also purchase the Qolsys IQ Stand if you want something a little more robust. The Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus is without a doubt the pinnacle of apartment security systems in 2019.

If you need help choosing a system, or if you want to learn more about the alarm monitoring plans offered from Alarm Grid, then please reach out to us! The best way to contact us is to email support@alarmgrid.com. You are also welcome to call us at (888) 818-7728. Just keep in mind that our regular business hours are from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

In today's real estate market, many homeowners are looking for ways to increase the value of their homes. One way to do this is to install a home security system. This is an easy and effective way to make your home more appealing. And getting alarm monitoring service is completely optional.

Many people mistakenly believe that signing up for monitoring service is a requirement when buying an alarm system. Technically, this is not the case. An alarm panel, security sensors, and even home automation accessories are all items that you can purchase without signing up for anything. You can install this equipment in your home without any alarm monitoring plan. Then you can list a security system as feature in your home when you go to sell. This can help seal the deal for a buyer, as many people are looking for smart homes with state-of-the art security systems.

What makes this even better is that you can likely install this equipment by yourself. The biggest challenge is mounting the panel to the wall. This will require drilling some holes and maybe fishing some wire. But it's really nothing you can't do as a quick weekend project. If the idea still makes you uncomfortable, then you can get a desk or table stand for the system instead. Nearly every system has one available. Meanwhile, the sensors can be mounted without drilling any holes by using double-sided foam tape. And basic programming is a cinch with a wireless all-in-one panel.

An aspect of residential alarm systems that is sometimes overlooked is that these devices do more than just keep a home secure. Today, most home security systems double as complete smart home automation hubs. In other words, you can set up a security panel to serve as a one-stop controller for various smart devices in your home. This includes peripherals such as smart lights, smart door locks, smart thermostats, water shut-off valves, and more. Many alarm panels allow you to control these devices from one location, even if the system isn't monitored. And if you add a key fob, then you can control some of these devices from anywhere in your home with the press of a button!

The most important thing when choosing a home security system without professional monitoring is to make sure the system is non-proprietary and can be taken to any alarm monitoring company that will support it. For example, all of the security systems sold on the Alarm Grid website can be used with monitoring service from nearly any alarm company. This will give you or a new owner greater flexibility if you decide to sign-up for alarm monitoring later on. The last thing you want to do is tie yourself to a single monitoring company. A non-proprietary security system offers greater freedom!

Once you have the security system, you just need to install it. This includes mounting the panel and sensors, powering the system, and enrolling any accessories. Like we said earlier, this can all be easily done yourself as a quick weekend project. And just like that, you will have immediately raised the value of your home! Whether or not you use the system from there is up to you. An unmonitored system can still be armed and disarmed to serve as a local noisemaker. And you can still use it as an automation controller for your smart home devices. All while improving your home's sell value!

Of course, we always recommend monitoring any alarm system. This is the only way to receive text and/or email alerts for any system activity that occurs. It is also the only way to receive service from a central monitoring station for automatic emergency dispatch in the event of a burglary or a fire. You can even control your smart home automation devices remotely from nearly anywhere in the world using a user-friendly platform like Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com.

Also keep in mind that signing up for central station monitoring service can help you save money on your homeowner's insurance. The savings might even cover the full cost of your monitoring service! Remember, just because you don't sign-up for monitoring service right away doesn't mean you can't later on. As long as you have a non-proprietary system and a compatible alarm monitoring communicator, you will have a ton of options at your disposal. We recommend checking out our alarm monitoring page if you want to learn more about our monitoring services.

And if you are in the market for alarm monitoring service, why not consider Alarm Grid? All of our monitoring plans are no-contract, and they feature no added fees. This means that you will not pay any extra cost when activating your monitoring service. If you ever decide to cancel your service, you can do at the end of your monthly cycle, without incurring any fees or penalties. And since your system is non-proprietary, you can always take it to a new alarm monitoring company. This gives us motivation to work hard each and every month to continue to earn your trust and your business.

If you need help choosing a home security system for use without professional monitoring, or if you have any questions about our products or monitoring services, you are always welcome to reach out to us. The best way to contact us is to email support@alarmgrid.com. You are also invited to call us at (888) 818-7728. Just remember that our regular business hours are from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you find the perfect security system!

Hi DIYers! We are happy to announce that Qolsys has released Firmware Version 2.4.2 for the IQ Panel 2 and IQ Panel 2 Plus. The update is available for any IQ Panel 2 or IQ Panel 2 Plus that is connected to WIFI and running software version 2.0.1 or higher. It can be applied via Patch Tag.

We never covered IQ Panel 2 Firmware Version 2.4.1, as there were supposedly major issues with that version. However, Qolsys quickly rallied, and they revamped the 2.4.1 upgrade into Firmware Version 2.4.2 instead. This update should improve system stability and general performance. It offers some key upgrades and improvements over Firmware Version 2.4.0. We recommended that anyone with a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 or IQ Panel 2 Plus upgrades to 2.4.2 as soon as possible.

The following updates are included in Firmware Version 2.4.2:

• An issue where the new IQ Remote (QW9104-840) would continue to produce Entry Delay beeps for a short period after disarming from the main panel has been fixed.
• The PG9309, PG9312, and PG9945 now have Reed Switch as the default selection for the Sensor Input field when enrolled remotely from Alarm.com.
• Disarm Photos can now be disabled for the IQ Remote Keypad.
• Camera Page can be disabled from panel UI. Doing this will automatically turn-off Disarm Photos, Alarm Photos, Alarm Videos, and Settings Photos
• The built-in panel glass break sensor can no longer be defined as a motion sensor when programmed remotely from Alarm.com.
• An issue where the panel time might display an hour earlier than the actual time has been fixed.
• Corrected a WIFI issue that occurred when using Alarm.com to request the system to scan for WIFI networks remotely.
• Can now receive consecutive doorbell chime tones when a SkyBell device is pressed multiple times during a single notification event.
• The randomized delay of 0 to 30 minutes when sending a panel software update from Alarm.com has been reduced to 0 to 5 minutes. This will speed up the process when updating from 2.4.2 to a higher firmware version that has yet to be released.
• Fixed an issue where the Thermostat Page could appear as blank.

There is no cost to update to Firmware Version 2.4.2 using a Patch Tag. This process can be complete on any IQ Panel 2 or IQ Panel 2 Plus running Firmware Version 2.0.1 or higher. The system should be connected to a WIFI network and be plugged-in and not have a low battery. The system will need to be actively monitored and have service with Alarm.com.

To apply the update, start by clicking on the small grey bar at the top of the main screen. Then choose Settings > Advanced Settings > enter Installer Code (default 1111) > Upgrade Software > Patch Tage > enter iqpanel2.4.2 > OK > Upgrade Using Network. The update should then begin to go through. It will usually take a few minutes for the update to finish. Do not power down the system during this time! Just be patient until the update completes. The system will power cycle as part of the update process.

If you have any questions about the new Firmware Version 2.4.2 for the IQ Panel 2, please reach out to us! The best way to contact us is to email your questions to support@alarmgrid.com. Remember that our support hours run from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Hi DIYers! Today, we're taking a look at the 2GIG SMKT8e-345. This is a wireless encrypted smoke and heat detector that also offers freeze detection. This versatile and effective life-safety combo sensor is designed exclusively for use with the 2GIG GC2e and 2GIG GC3e Security Systems.

Encrypted communication is important for wireless sensors like the 2GIG SMKT8e-345. It prevents anyone from hacking or spoofing the sensor. This way, you can always be sure that it will communicate with the system properly. Many of the newer security systems on the market have their own lineup of encrypted sensors. The 2GIG GC2e and GC3e have the 2GIG eSeries Lineup, and the 2GIG SMKT8e-345 represents the latest addition.

The 2GIG SMKT8e-345 has a photoelectric sensor for smoke detection. This involves using a small light source inside the sensor, coupled with a photo sensor. When smoke enters the chamber, the light will refract onto the photo sensor. The sensor will detect this and alert the system to the fire. This detection method is extremely reliable, and it helps ensure that the system properly responds to any fire. Additionally, the optical chamber for the SMKT8e-345 is designed in such a way that the sensor is more sensitive to synthetic smoke rather than natural cooking smoke. This helps to prevent certain false alarms on the system.

The SMKT8e-345 also uses a fixed temperature and rate-of-rise sensor for extreme heat detection. The heat sensor is triggered in a rather unique way that we've never quite seen with another heat detector. Whenever the sensor detects a temperature increase of 15°F or more in a single minute, it sends a rate-of-rise alert to the panel. But the system will only go into alarm and the sensor will only activate its sounder if the rate-of-rise alert is sent when the sensor detects a fixed temperature of 104°F or higher. The sensor will monitor and report any extreme temperature variations.

We do not have the specifications for the built-in freeze detector at this time. We can assume that the sensor most likely activates at temperatures around 40°F to 45°F and below. This will give you time to take action before the pipes freeze due to a broken HVAC system. Note that the internal sounder for the 2GIG SMKT8e-345 is rated at 90dB. This is good for alerting everyone in an average sized home or a small business. If your system is monitored, the activated sensor will trigger an alarm so that an alert is sent to you and/or a central station. The sensor uses three (3) AAA batteries, and it has an average battery life of 10 years with normal use.

If you have any questions about the 2GIG SMKT8e-345 or any of the products sold on our site, please reach out to us by emailing support@alarmgrid.com. Keep in mind that our support hours run from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Hi DIYers! With the holidays quickly approaching, we know that many of you will be receiving packages and presents to your home. You will want to be very wary of package thieves around this time of year. Luckily, we have the Top 5 ways to help you thwart a thief trying to take your stuff!

Arrange for Package Pickup

If you aren't going to be around during the time of delivery, you might just arrange to pick up the package from a post office or a pickup locker. There might even be a pickup location on your way home from work so that you don't have to go out of your way. Sure, it isn't as convenient as having your delivery brought to you, but at least you'll have peace of mind in knowing that your gift is safe.

Deliver it Elsewhere

If you don't have time to pick up your package, then maybe you can deliver it somewhere else where you'll know it's safe. For example, some companies and places of employment will allow employees to have packages delivered to the office during the workday. Or if you have a friend or a relative who is home during the day, you might have it sent to their house instead.

Get Security Cameras

Rather than avoiding thieves, you might just try to catch them in the act. You can get security cameras as part of your alarm monitoring service and set them up to get a good look at anyone who approaches your home. There are fantastic camera options whether you use Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com. If you don't want to go the full video surveillance route, then you could still use something simple like a SkyBell Video Doorbell Camera.

Schedule Your Deliveries

Many delivery services allow you to schedule deliveries based on your schedule. This way, you can have your delivery occur at a time when you know that you're going to be home. Check with the delivery company to see if there is a way you can set up a scheduled time for your delivery. At the very least, you may be able to make sure the delivery occurs within a specific time frame.

Use Home Automation

Smart home devices can be very useful in preventing stolen packages. Devices you might use in this way include smart garage door controllers and smart door locks. For example, you might leave a note for a postal worker to leave a package in the garage. You can then use your smart garage door controller to shut the garage door behind them when they leave. Or you could use a Z-Wave door lock to unlock the door for a delivery, and then re-lock the door after the postal worker leaves.

Alarm Grid is here to protect you and your belongings during the holiday season. If you have any questions about our products or services, please reach out to us by emailing support@alarmgrid.com. Remember that our support hours run from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!