How Do ADT Security Systems Work?

ADT Security Systems work in the same manner as any other security systems. When a sensor is activated, it will send a signal to the control panel to let it know of the event. The panel will then respond based on the programming settings for that zone. This can include triggering an alarm.

When an alarm occurs, the system sends out a distress signal. In the case of ADT, the distress signal will be sent to a central monitoring station that is operated by ADT. Other alarm monitoring companies basically do the exact same thing. The only real difference is who operates the central monitoring station. The distress signal may also be sent to an interactive service platform so that it can be forwarded directly to the end user via text or email. If the user has a monitoring plan where they receive alarm alerts directly but their system is not set up with a central station, it is called self-monitoring.

When an alarm system is set up with ADT. the home or business will be protected with monitoring service that is provided from ADT. The customer will be subject to all of the terms and conditions mandated by ADT. However, initiating service with ADT and locking oneself into the required terms and conditions is usually not the best option for a customer. There are other alarm monitoring companies that will provide the exact same service as ADT, while also offering greater flexibility and freedom in terms of their monitoring service.

There are a few things to keep in mind when starting monitoring service with ADT. First, the company regularly charges activation and installation fees. These are in addition to the monthly monitoring fee. ADT also does not provide their customers with the Installer Codes for their security systems. If a user wants to make a change to their system's programming settings, they will need to contact ADT and pay a service fee for a technician to come out to their home or business. Another fact about ADT is that they often lock their customers into contacts. If a customer wants to terminate their ADT service while still under contract, they will usually have to pay a cancellation fee.

Fortunately, there are other options for alarm monitoring. One great option is Alarm Grid. As a monitoring company, Alarm Grid will offer the exact same service as ADT. The only difference is that an alarm signal will be sent to a central station operated by Alarm Grid's partner Criticom, instead of a central station operated by ADT. Alarm Grid also offers self-monitoring plans that are used in conjunction with either the Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com interactive services.

Alarm Grid is no-contract with no added fees. There are no activation, installation, service or cancellation fees whatsoever. The only price that a consumer will pay is the upfront cost of their equipment and their monthly monitoring fee. Alarm Grid is also a DIY company that empowers customers by providing them with the Installer Codes for their alarm systems. This way, they can make their own programming changes without having to have a service technician come out to their home or business and pay a service fee.

If an Alarm Grid customer ever does require extra assistance, top-quality support will be provided online or over the phone. The vast majority of Alarm Grid customers find that system programming is very easy with just a little bit of help. And if a customer ever does decide to leave Alarm Grid, they are free to do so at any time at absolutely no cost. They can even take their system to another monitoring company if desired, as all Alarm Grid equipment is non-proprietary.

Please check out the Alarm Grid Monitoring Page to learn more about Alarm Grid Monitoring Services.