Want to stay stay safe while preventing security system false alarms?
Then make sure you know the difference between these 3 arming modes:
- "Stay"
- "Away"
- "Night"
Before we get into the differences of arming modes, let's go over some terms: Entry delays and Exit delays. Each arming mode uses different delays; each are important to understand to prevent false alarms.
Entry delay: Amount of time (usually 30 seconds) your security system waits before triggering the alarm when certain doors are opened.
Exit delay: Amount of time (usually 1 to 2 minutes) between when you enter your code to arm your security system and when the system actually starts monitoring your home. Basically, it gives you time to leave your home so you don't accidentally set off your alarm.
OK, now that the vocabulary lesson is over, let's get into arming modes.
Away: For empty homes only
If no one is home, then away mode is for you. Also you can usually use this mode if you have a small pet and pet-friendly motion detectors, which are less likely to sound your alarm for any pets under 80 lbs.
Sensors armed:
- Interior sensors (like the motion detectors inside your home): Yes
- Exterior/perimeter sensors (like door sensors and glass break sensors): Yes
Time delays:
- Entry: yes
- Exit: yes
Stay: When anybody is home
You'll use this mode if anybody—including a large pet (giant fish excluded)—is home. It allows you or a large pet to move about freely while still protecting your doors and windows. This mode is perfect for kids who get home before you do.
Sensors armed:
- Interior sensors (like the motion detectors inside your home): No
- Exterior/perimeter sensors (like door sensors and glass break sensors): Yes
Time delays:
- Entry: yes
- Exit: yes
Night: Same as stay, but can't enter the entry door
Night is the trickiest mode of all because it can function in different ways depending on how the installer set it.
But, usually, the 30-second entry delay with entrance through door though is removed and opening a door will instantly trip the alarm. This instant trip is used to keep your family safe at night if a burglar breaks in.
You don't want to use this mode if you go to bed before someone else in your family gets home.
Sensors armed:
- Interior sensors (like the motion detectors inside your home): No
- Exterior/perimeter sensors (like door sensors and glass break sensors): Yes
Time delays:
- Entry: no (instant alarm)
- Exit: yes
Summary
This security panel manual offers a nifty chart summarizing the differences between each mode. Tape it up somewhere if you have trouble remembering the differences.
If you have any questions about your Ackerman system please let us know at 800-552-1111.
