FAQ | Security Alarm FAQ | Security Alarm
SERVING CENTRAL & SOUTHERN ILLINOIS 618-548-5768 | PAY ONLINE

FAQ

Account InformationSAC FAQ

Commercial Security Questions

Technical Questions

General Questions

Pricing

Account Information

How do I update my call list?
To update, contact our office at 800-252-7621. Before calling, have a list prepared of the names and phone numbers to be added or removed.

How do I change my password? 
Contact our office at 800-252-7621 or contact us online for any changes to your account.

I am planning to move. What do I do?
Contact our office at 800-252-7621. We will walk you through the correct steps and share with you ways you can earn some extra dollars when moving.

Do I receive something for referring a friend?
If you refer a friend and they purchase a system from us, you are eligible to receive either $50 or 3 months of free monitoring. (You must notify us of this referral.)

How do I cancel my account?
Please contact us at 800-252-7621 in order to cancel your account.

Can I pay my bill over the phone?
Yes, we would be happy for you to pay your bill by credit card over the phone. Contact us at 800-252-7621.

Can I pay my bill online? 
We are in the process of adding this function to our account program and our website.

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Commercial Security Questions

What is included in a commercial security system?
A traditional commercial intrusion system will come with a base unit, key pad, door sensors, motion detectors, glass break sensors, and any other devices that the system designer feels is necessary.

Does Security Alarm install commercial fire alarm systems?
Yes. We install fire alarm systems in schools, hospitals, hotels, manufacturing facilities and in many other industries across our region.

What is included in a commercial fire alarm system?
Every fire alarm system will be designed differently due to fire alarm code varying from industry to industry.

What are the best security features for a small business?
For maximum protection, the best thing someone can invest in is a traditional intrusion system that will notify the police if a break in is attempted.
For operation improvement, we recommend a camera system to help monitor and train personnel.

Is a wireless commercial alarm better than a wired one?
There are some pros to a wireless system but in general we recommend hard wired systems when possible. The fewer wireless devices, the less batteries there are to change and the less potential for issues.

How much does a commercial security system cost?
That truly depends on what you need and want. We have many different systems that fit a wide range of financial needs.

How much does monitoring cost?
Monitoring starts at about $34/month

Will Security Alarm monitor a system installed by someone else?
Absolutely. Most of the time we can make other company’s equipment work with our monitoring.

How many security cameras do I need for my business?
This really depends on where you want/need to see. Some businesses want a camera at the drive through window or at the cash register. Others want them watching the entrance or dumpster. How many cameras you need, depends on what you want to see.

Do you install commercial security systems for large buildings?
Yes. We do commercial installs in schools, hospitals, manufacturing plants, and other large facilities.

Do you install access control systems for businesses?
Yes. We can provide access control on both a small and large scale. Whether you are a small business or a large plant, access control provides many benefits.

Do you install motion sensing cameras?
We provide a line of cameras that can detect and notify you via text when a human or vehicle enters your property.

Can I control my business security system from my phone?
Yes. We provide several different apps by which you can have total control over your business’s security and day to day operations.

Is there a difference between a security camera and a surveillance camera?
No. These are interchangeable terms.

Do I need a security system if my business is in a good part of town?
Yes, break-ins occur in both good and bad areas of town. Also a security system can provide so many additional features outside of basic security.

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Technical Questions

What do I do when my keypad says “low system battery”?
This message signals that the large back-up battery inside the control panel needs to be changed. There are three options for changing the battery.

1) We can come out and replace the battery for you.
2) We can drop ship you the battery for $45
3) You can come to the office and pick it up for $35. Please contact us at 800- 252-7621.

How do I silence low battery alerts?
In case of a power outage or if a battery fails to recharge, most systems will begin beeping or chirping. Low battery trouble beeps can usually be silenced by punching in your 4-digit code and pressing“OFF”. Refer to your system manual for specific instructions. Or contact us at 800-252-7621.

What should I do if a door or window sensor falls off?
If a door or window contact becomes dislodged, you can set the system to bypass the zone in which that contact is located, allowing you to keep the system armed. Please refer to your user manual for specific instructions or contact us at 800-252-7621.

How do I silence the alarm?
In order to silence your alarm, punch in your 4-digit code and then press “OFF”.

How do I reset my keypad?
After the alarm has been silenced, punch in your 4-digit code for a second time and then press “OFF”.

How do I arm my alarm for when I am leaving?
When you are leaving your home and no one will be present inside the home, punch in your 4-digit code and press “AWAY”.

How do I arm my alarm for when I am staying at home?
When you are staying at home but would like to arm the perimeter of the house, punch in your 4-digit code and press “STAY” or “INSTANT”. This will allow you to freely roam around your home but will alert you if a door or window is tampered with.

Do you require a landline phone for security system monitoring?+
We no longer require a phone line for security systems. It is still an option; however, most customers are now choosing monitoring that occurs through the cell tower and via the internet. This eliminates the need for phone lines.

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General Questions

Will my alarm work with VoIP phone service?
Security systems do not properly communicate over VOIP Phone Lines. A telephone line must be a standard POTTS line for a security system to function properly. Other alternatives such as cellular and internet communicators are now available.

Can I get the added functionality done in phases if I can’t afford doing it all now? 
If you can’t afford the “ideal” system right now, you can start small and expand it later on. Every security system we install has the ability to have additional features or devices added at anytime.

Will my insurance company give me a discount if I have a security system? 
While all insurance companies vary, most companies offer a 5% – 15% for a “monitored” home security system. Contact us at 800-252-7621 and we can create a document for you to give to your insurance agency.

Will Security Alarm monitor a security system I’ve installed myself? 
Security Alarm can monitor a “self” installed alarm system depending on the situation. Contact us at 800-252-7621 for more information.

Can you activate and monitor the ADT security system that was previously installed in my house? 
Yes! We can generally re-program an existing ADT, Brinks, Vivint, Protection 1, or other previously installed security systems as long we can obtain the master / installers code to the security system. We offer a Free Changeover / Inspection of your security system with a (1) year commitment to our monitoring services. Basic monitoring starts at $22.75/month.

Can I use my smartphone to control my security system? 
Yes, new technology gives you the ability to control your alarm system and other home appliances. Find out more.

Can I use my smartphone to view live or recorded video of what happens in my home?
Yes, you can use your Smartphone, iPad or the computer to view live or recorded images from your home. For more information, check out our Smartphone page.

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Pricing

How much is a service call?

For a commercial business a service call is $125 per hour.
For residential a service call is $95 per hour.

What are my pricing options?
Click here for more about pricing options.

How much does monitoring cost per month?
Security systems that use a phone line for monitoring cost $22.75 per month. Systems that are wirelessly monitored are $31 per month.

If your question was not answered here, please call us at 618-548-5768 to reach one of our friendly staff members or contact us here!

Contact Security Alarm

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Tech answering alarm related questions for a customer

What Our Customers Are Saying

Excellent
4.8
Chris Conard
1 month ago
Great company to work with and their tech support is spot on!
We appreciate the attention to detail they give to their clients. They always respond in a timely manner to any questions we have. They make sure we understand all the options in service and offer the latest technology. We appreciate the high standard of service and core values their team upholds. We highly recommend Security Alarm!
Robinette Flach
5 months ago
We have had great service from Security Alarm and are very happy with them.
Lisa Koger
7 months ago
Awesome Customer Service
Response from the owner:Thank you!
Heather Iffert
8 months ago
Systems are top notch - modern, reliable and thoughtfully designed to provide real peace of mind. Everything is explained clearly, installed professionally and customized to fit your needs rather than pushing a one-size fits all solution. What truly sets them apart is their small-town, genuine desire to help. You're not treated like an account number - you're treated like a neighbor! Every interaction is personal, honest and rooted in a sincere commitment to keeping people safe. They take the time to answer questions, check in when needed and make sure everything is working as it should. It is rare to find a business that combines cutting-edge security technology with such authentic care and integrity. If you are looking for a company that delivers exceptional systems AND truly stands behind their customers, Security Alarm is the one.
Brian Jay
1 year ago
I have owned a security system for my personal residence for a number of years. From the installation to the follow up, the experience has been nothing short of a fantastic. I just recently added cameras to my system and again had the same positive experience. I know first hand that this company and their employees care about the customers they serve and they invest a lot of time and money back into the communities that they serve. Their competitors do not even begin to compare.
Deb Branch
1 year ago
We have Security Alarm here at the church. We are well pleased with them. We do not have any issues with their security company. Once in a blue moon, there may be a technical issue. A simple phone call and they resolve the issue.
We like Security Alarm, we have had very little problems and what we did have they fixed. The only problem we have is when we travel, we have trouble seeing our cameras on our computer, could be the computer though and we can see them on our phones with no problem. Thanks, Larry
Myron Lloyd
1 year ago
There is none better than Security Alarm. Customer service, technicians and attention to detail is outstanding. Fortunate to rely on their attention to protect and please.
Doug Cottom
1 year ago
Outstanding company….have delivered each and every time that I asked for install, addition, basic service call, etc…..feel well taken care of…..dc
Jim H
1 year ago
The entire experience was great. Meeting with salesperson Ryan C. who didn’t try to sell us things we didn’t need. The installation crew who cleaned up as they went along and answerd all the questions about operating the system. Top notch all around. Would highly recommend Security Alarm to anyone wanting peace of mind concerning the family and home.
Mark Cosgrove
1 year ago
No concerns. Their response is immediate 24/7
Lori Followell
1 year ago
We have used Security Alarm for over a decade. Won't even try anyone else!
Susan Reid
1 year ago
Quality people, quality company! Highly recommend.
June James
1 year ago
I have been with Security Alarm for many years. They respond promptly and efficiently when my alarm has been activated. The system protects my entire home and gives me a feeling of security.
Response from the owner:Thank you, June!
Fast friendly service. Good value for services
erica morlan
1 year ago
Adam Morlan visited our residential properties today in flora to inspect our fire alarms and smoke detectors, and he received numerous compliments from our management team at each location regarding his respectful and polite demeanor. He efficiently completes his tasks while maintaining a respectful attitude. He is a great worker and definitely recommend security alarm for your system!
Terry Pearcy
2 years ago
Tyler did a great job reviewing our system and equipment and gave good options for improving our safety. We are in good hands!
Karen Choi
2 years ago
I've been using their services for many years and have zero complaints. Everyone on their team is friendly and knowledgable. Ryan and Curtis were super professional and very helpful. I highly recommend them!
They reworked our code system. Did a wonderful job with everything. We are happy with their work every time we call them.
Response from the owner:Thank you for taking the time to leave a review!
Randy Henderson
2 years ago
Once again the technician asked the right questions and sorted the problem out. I was unable to verify which zone each sensor was on, but he tracked it down and determined that the problem wasn't where we thought it was. He replaced the bad sensor and checked the others. And on the day I called. Thanks again, Security Alarm.
Quick replies and great attention to detail! Knowledgeable and friendly staff! Got us taken care of quickly!
Robert Marley
2 years ago
Troy and Larry showed up in a timely manner. They were courteous, knowledgeable and professional. They fixed my problem in minimal time.
Response from the owner:Thank You Robert!
Tony Wielt
2 years ago
Have worked with SAC for over 15 years now and recently made a much needed upgrade. Each interaction that I have had with them, from the Office Staff to the Sales Staff to the Installers, was professional and positive. They worked around my customers during installation and was minimal interruption to my business. Plus - they are locally owned and operated. That means a lot to work with other business owners like us.
Jeff was here yesterday and found the problem with both cameras and even had to work in the rain to get them replaced and up and running. Thanks

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