Frequently Asked Questions
As simple and easy to use as our systems are, you may have a few questions on how the systems work or which one would best meet your needs. Click on the links below to find out the answers to some of our customers' most common questions.
- How does the self-monitoring system work?
- How does the monitored system work?
- call your local police department, then call your pre-determined keyholder (often your own cell phone, a neighbour, friend, or employee
- contact the keyholder or someone on-site to confirm if an actual emergency is in progress before calling police
- Alarm systems seem to be available in a range of prices. What should I be looking for in a system?
- If I purchase a self-monitoring system now, can I sign up for monitoring service in the future?
- Which system is better – hardwired or wireless?
- Which is better – a monitored or a self-monitored system?
- Can you still install an alarm system if my phone line is voice over IP (VOIP)?
- Are there any hidden fees with the self monitored alarm systems?
- If I decide to move, is my alarm system able to move with me?
- How does the GPS tracking unit work?
- Will the GPS tracking unit drain my vehicle battery?
- How much does it cost to have the vehicle located?
- How do I program the GPS tracking unit?
- What happens to the GPS tracking device when I sell my car?
- Do your products come with a warranty?
The system is programmed with up to five emergency telephone or cell phone numbers that will automatically be dialled in priority sequence within 2 seconds of alarm activation. Most popular choices for the emergency contacts include the owners’ cell phone or work phone, nearby friends and family, and neighbours. If the person is unreachable, the system calls the next key-holder on the list until somebody answers and the system receives acknowledgement. The system will also activate a siren to signal an emergency.
The system is capable of playing a pre-recorded message specific to your home or business. For example:
“An alarm has been activated at 123 Queen Street in Kitchener. Please call 555-5555 to verify the nature of the alarm. If there is no answer, please send help immediately.”
The system can then be disarmed or re-armed with a pre-determined passcode from anywhere you have access to a phone.
Based on the process you choose when the system is set up, an agent at our monitoring station will take one of the following steps when the alarm is triggered:
Cheaper systems tend to not be as reliable, durable, and user friendly, and some of them can easily be disarmed or unplugged by an intruder within seconds. They also operate on a frequency that can be jammed or obstructed by cordless phones, garage door openers, and wireless Internet connections from neighbouring homes. The alarm systems we offer are based on state-of-the-art commercial security technology that has been thoroughly tested for reliability, durability, and usability.
Yes, the system can be used as a self-monitored system, or it can be monitored by our professional, state-of-the-art monitoring center.
Today’s wireless technology is so advanced there is little difference between hardwired and wireless security systems. Each home or business is unique and therefore no two security solutions are the same. We will help you pick the system that is best suited for your application. With an extensive product line to choose from, we are able to cater to each and every application.
Both options provide the same level of security. It becomes more of a personal choice. If your key holders are only a phone call away, then a self-monitored alarm system may be for you. With a self-monitored system, there are no contracts, and no monthly fees.
If you travel or are away from your home for extended periods of time, then a monitored security system may be better suited to you.
Yes! Our systems are compatible with VOIP lines.
No. There are no additional fees or charges after the purchase of the self-monitored alarm system. Unlike other companies that have an installation charge or require a three year monitoring contract, the system is owned by the customer and therefore there are no more costs ... period!
Yes. Wireless alarm systems can easily be removed from the existing building and reinstalled in your new home.
The GPS tracking device uses Global Positioning Systems to pinpoint location. Messages are sent via the GSM network to provide alerts to the user based on their preferences (messages can be sent via email or SMS text messages).
No. The GPS unit will not drain the battery. The device is equipped with a “sleep mode” which allows the unit to go into standby while the vehicle is off.
Email alerts are free. SMS text alerts cost two credits per alert. Credits can be purchased at any time through our website. Click here.
The unit can be programmed through the AlarmShield website from any computer that has an internet connection. You can change your email address, set GEO fence boundaries, and change speed threshold alerts from any computer.
The GPS tracking device can be used with any vehicle. When you sell or transfer the ownership of your vehicle, we can transfer the device into your new vehicle in just under an hour.
Absolutely! Click here for details.