I just moved into a new house that has a system installed by another company. Can AFA monitor my system?
Yes. AFA works with leading manufacturers and can monitor all major alarm systems. As long as you are not under a contractual obligation with another company we will be happy to provide monitoring service for your system.
Will I have to sign a contract to obtain service or monitoring? How long will the commitment have to be?
Yes, AFA needs to have a contract with its customers to provide services. AFA offers contracts of variable lengths for our services and monitoring to meet your unique needs
How often should the security system be tested?
Testing and inspecting requirements vary by system, but all systems should be checked and tested annually. AFA provides service contracts so that your system is tested on a regular schedule giving you confidence that your home is protected.
How do I test my system?
AFA provides you with an Alarm System Passcard that allows you to put your alarm system into and out of test remotely from a mobile device or your computer by logging in to My Account. Putting an account “on test” tells our central station automation system that all signals received from your account during the “test” or “off line” period are to be logged only and not acted upon. Central Station operators will take no action on signals sent from a system during the “on test” period. Although your system will sound and function normally, at the premises, alarms will not be transmitted to fire departments or other authorities. Your system will stay in test mode for 8 hours. During this time you can arm your system and test the system by opening windows and doors and tripping motion detectors. When your system is taken out of test mode, all alarms will be treated as actual alarm signals by Central Monitoring Center operators.
IF AN ACTUAL FIRE OR EMERGENCY OCCURS WHILE “ON TEST” YOU SHOULD CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY.
Even if I keep my same phone number, if I change phone service providers, could it affect my alarm service?
Yes. Because each phone service provider may use a different set of wires, or cable line, your alarm service could be affected by a change in providers. If you change phone service providers you should test your system or schedule a service call to test the system. If you test your system, be sure to notify the central monitoring station. Your system should be tested any time you change service providers.
How can I switch my method of sending signals from over phone lines to GSM cellular, internet or both?
By calling either your local AFA branch or email us at [email protected] you can discuss switching your alarm signal transmission method. A customer service representative will work with you to discuss your specific requirements and set an appointment for one of our experienced technicians and installers to help you make the transition easily.
Does AFA offer systems where cameras can be accessed and viewed remotely?
Yes. AFA offers AFA Vision Remote and Video Surveillance services to allow you to monitor your business, retail store or facility from any mobile device. Internet access is needed. Contact us to learn more about our remote monitoring services.
Does AFA offer systems that can be operated remotely?
Yes. AFA commercial security systems can be operated remotely from any mobile device or with a portable control panel that has Internet connectivity. Your system can be designed so that you can monitor activity and control heating, lighting and alarms remotely. Contact us to learn more about our remote monitoring systems.
Does AFA offer remote video surveillance?
Yes. AFA offers AFA Vision Remote and Video Surveillance services to allow you to monitor your business, retail store or facility from any mobile device with Internet connectivity. You can view all activity for your business live or via archived video. You can always know what is happening at your business even when you are not there. Contact us to learn more about our video surveillance services.
My keypad flashes ‘FC’, what does that mean?
If’ FC’ is showing on your keypad that means the system has failed to communicate to the central (monitoring) station. Sometimes this can be cleared by having your system put on test, sending an alarm and checking with central station to be sure if it was received. If not, it may require a service call.
My alarm went off accidentally, but I quickly put in the code and shut it off. I expected a call from AFA, but did not get one. Why not?
When you system is disarmed (turned off), it sends a cancellation signal. Usually this signifies an accidental alarm and our central station will treat that signal as such. Therefore, they will not make a call to the home unless it is part of your special instructions to do so.