You’ve invested in a security system to protect what matters most – your home, your business, your peace of mind. But even the best system can fall short if it’s misused. Many common mistakes don’t involve faulty technology, but human error. These oversights can reduce your system’s effectiveness and leave you exposed, sometimes without even realising it.
In this post, we’ll cover the top five security system user-errors and offer practical tips to avoid them. No shame, no jargon, just helpful advice to get the most out of your investment.
1. Forgetting to Arm the System
A Simple Habit That Undermines the Whole Setup
One of the most frequent and costly errors is forgetting to arm the alarm system altogether. Whether it’s rushing out for school drop-off or being distracted while locking up a shop, skipping this crucial step renders even the most advanced setup useless.
How to Avoid It:
- Set reminders: Use smartphone alarms or automation routines.
- Opt for app control: Mobile notifications can alert you if the system is left disarmed after a set time.
Professional Tip: Iris VBS can configure commercial and domestic systems with custom exit/entry delays and reminders to suit your routine.
2. Sharing PIN Codes Insecurely
Convenience Shouldn’t Come at the Cost of Security
Many users share their alarm PINs verbally, write them down near the keypad, or reuse simple codes like 1234. This creates a vulnerability, especially in shared environments like offices or multi-trade households.
How to Avoid It:
- Assign individual user codes: Most modern systems support multiple users
- Change codes regularly: Update credentials after staff turnover or changes in tenancy.
- Avoid common numbers: Don’t use birthdays, addresses, or repeating digits.
Did You Know? NSI Gold-approved systems can log code usage for audit trails which can be extremely useful for commercial and multi-occupancy settings.
3. Poor Maintenance
A Dirty Smoke Detector Won’t Save You
Security and fire systems need regular upkeep. Cobwebbed PIR sensors, dead backup batteries, and dusty smoke detectors can all impair performance; or cause false alarms that users then ignore.
How to Avoid It
- Schedule routine checks: Domestic users should test systems monthly. Businesses must follow fire and safety regulations.
- Keep devices clean: Use a dry cloth to clean smoke detectors and cameras.
- Book annual servicing: An NSI or BAFE-approved engineer can identify issues before they become faults.
4. Over-Reliance on CCTV
Cameras Are Great, But They Don’t Deter on Their Own
CCTV is a powerful deterrent and evidence tool. But relying solely on cameras, without intrusion detection, means you only see what’s already happened, not stop it.
How to Avoid It
- Layer your security: Use CCTV alongside door/window sensors, perimeter beams or smart alarms.
- Enable proactive alerts: Systems with motion analytics can notify you in real time.
- Place signage clearly: Visible warnings add deterrence and meet legal signage requirements.
Need guidance? Iris VBS designs integrated systems that combine surveillance with real-time response.
5. Ignoring False Alarms
The Cry-Wolf Effect Is Real
Frequent false alarms – from wind-blown doors, pets, or sensor misalignment often lead users to stop responding or even disable parts of the system.
How to Avoid It
- Adjust sensitivity settings: Most sensors can be fine-tuned.
- Use pet-friendly detectors: These ignore movement below a certain weight.
- Have it inspected: Repeated false alarms are a sign something needs recalibration or repair.
If your monitored system is triggering callouts too often, it could also affect your police response eligibility.
Final Thoughts
Security systems are powerful tools, but like any tool, they need to be used properly. These five mistakes are easy to make, but even easier to fix. Small changes in daily habits and routine maintenance can dramatically improve your protection, download our pdf guide here – to give out to colleagues, clients or family.
Want help reviewing your current setup? Book a free security health check with Iris VBS, and let our NSI Gold-accredited team identify simple upgrades to keep you safer.
