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How to Troubleshoot a Keypad for Your Home Security System That Doesn't Work

Home security alarms have become standard pieces of equipment in many households. You program the operation of your system from a keypad that is usually mounted on a wall inside your house. If your keypad malfunctions, do some troubleshooting before calling your alarm service. You may be able to fix the problem without scheduling an expensive service call. Refer to your user manual for information about troubleshooting your particular system.

Instructions

    • 1

      Enter the PIN number on the keypad that you've selected as your security code. If it doesn't work, the keypad buttons may be worn out. Try changing the code by following the instructions in your user manual. If this doesn't work, you may need a new keypad.

    • 2

      Close all the monitored doors and windows if your keypad display reads "Not Ready" and you can't arm the system. A door or window that the system monitors could be open. A motion detector may also be detecting a person in the house. If this isn't the case, one of the monitors may be broken and need replacement.

    • 3

      Test the operation of your circuit breaker and transformer if your keypad reads "No AC." This means that it is not getting electric power. Open the circuit breaker panel to your home and flip the breaker to the security system if it has tripped. If it has not, the transformer may be disconnected or malfunctioning. Refer to your user manual for information about reconnecting your transformer. If this doesn't work, call your security service.

    • 4

      Bypass a zone that won't close if you cannot arm the system and the keypad alerts you that a particular zone is open. You should still be able to arm the system if you bypass the trouble zone. Call your security service to fix the malfunctioning zone.

    • 5

      Contact your security service if your keypad beeps over and over. This can happen when your power goes out, and may even continue when the power comes back on. It could be an indication that the battery is totally drained.