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
4.9
Tyler did a great job reviewing our system and equipment and gave good options for improving our safety. We are in good hands!
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!
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!
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!
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
Everything you could hope for. There was no attempt to sell us something we did not need. When a minor problem occurred they were there to take care of it. Great friendly people.
So pleased with the security system at UcamP Express RV Park, it has afforded me the freedom to do life, but yet be able to keep up-to-date on everything at the park. Customer service is top notch at Security Alarm of Salem, IL.
We have had Security Alarm for several years. Unfortunately, we have accidentally forgotten on occasion the alarm was set when we opened a door. Within seconds we would get a call making sure everything was okay.A couple times we had to have a technician come out to our house for a minor problem. The problems were resolved quickly and professional.We highly recommend Security Alarm for your home and business security.
Response from the owner: Thank you Vicki for taking the time to leave a review!
RYAN C, AND SECURITY ALARM DID AN AMAZING JOB START TO FINISH!! I OWN A BUSINESS AND CAN SAY SECURITY ALARM IS SECOND TO NONE IN SERVICE AND WORKMANSHIP!!
Thank you Watson for your prompt attention to our issue.
Our technician was the the Salem office. He was very nice, professional, and knowledgeable. I'm bad with names, but I think him name was Troy. I hope his boss acknowledges his good work.
Security Alarm is one of the best companies I have ever dealt with. As a landlord I have used so many companies for so many different things but not all give amazing service and give you a product beyond your expectations. It's always a pleasure doing business with you guys. Thank you for the wonderful service over the years.
We had a minor issue with our buzzer system for the entry door and Josh responded to our email within a few hours. An employee was at our office the next day and had the problem fixed within 30 minutes. We love the system they installed and would highly recommend Security Alarm. Mark Miller, Marion County Supervisor of Assessments
I cannot say enough good things about Security Alarm. Their office staff are very professional and helpful, wonderful sales staff who explain all options thoroughly and without bias. And their installers are outstanding, very knowledgeable and care about the customer, ensuring all questions are answered before they leave the job. I’m so glad we went with this company, and most of all, I feel our home is now safe and secure!!
Security Alarm responds quickly to our needs as soon as we call. Their technicians are highly skilled and the customer service team is exemplary.
The installation team did a wonderful job upgrading our system. They were friendly, efficient and very knowledgeable. We have been extremely happy with our Security Alarm service for many years now and look forward to many more.
I have been dealing with Lowitt Alarms Security Alarms since 1997, I an very satisfied with there service, I had a problem 4/5/24, I could not shut off the alarm, after calling Lowitt and following directions I was not able to shut off the alarm, I was told that the next appointment for repair would be tomorrow, I explained the we are seniors and please see what you can do, Linda, was able to made some adjustments and a repair person came to our home at 4Pm and put a new battery and radio, I highly recommend Lowitt Alarms to any one who is shopping for a Security System
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.
Phenomenal service! I would highly recommend Security Alarm. Customer service is outstanding and prompt and not pushy. Overall, it was a wonderful experience working with them!
The technician was very professional and did our repairs in a timely manner.
The guys that set it up were first class!Your customer service is wonderful. I left my last security service because they had rude people in the wrong position!!
The guys were so nice and explained everything to me. They were here at the time I was told. Can't say enough good things about them!
TECH SUPPORT WAS EXTREMELY HELPFUL
The Security Alarm team was very nice, knowledgeable, and professional. Would highly recommend them!
This is a first rate operation. Anytime I have needed service their technicians arrive on time and get the work done promptly. Josh is an outstanding service tech!
Used Security Alarm Corp. for over 20 years. Service is great & I would not use any other company!
Tech solved my problem immediatelyThanks
Security Alarm has consistently shown professionalism, ethical business behavior, and exceptional customer support. I highly recommend them to anyone in need of residential or business monitoring services. They have given our family more peace of mind when it comes to home security, at a fraction of the cost of other major security companies.
They were both very nice. Explained what they were doing. They checked everything out and got me back up and running. Thank you Security Alarm for having such nice people working for you.
Response from the owner: Thank you Debbie for taking the time to leave a review!
Wonderfully helpful and informative. I’m confident we made a great choice. These guys really know their business!
Response from the owner: Thank you Carolyn for taking the time to leave a review!
Prompt service, they were here the next day and didn't leave until the problem was corrected. Even got a follow-up call the next day to make sure it was working.
Response from the owner: Christopher, so glad we were able to get the issue resolved! And thank you for taking the time to leave a review!
I have encountered 4 different employees from here. They have all been so nice. I am very impressed with how nice, respectful, and friendly they all have been.
Response from the owner: Thank you Cheryl for taking the time to leave us a review. We so appreciate it!
These guys are great!
very happy with the service, value and the instillation.
Response from the owner: Thank you William for taking the time to leave a review!
They did a fantastic job!! So glad I used this company!!! If you need a security system these are the people to call!!
Response from the owner: Thank you so much, Cathy! We are so thankful you chose as well!
Very good service and very friendly! 10/10 recommend
Very pleased with Security Alarm!This is our second time using them!They installed some additional security cameras at the KPJY Pinckneyville - Du Quoin Airport, located 6 miles south of Pinckneyville, Illinois. Courteous,knowledgable, and professional technicians! I highly recommend Security Alarm for your security and peace of mind!Stephen MossKPJY Airport Manager
Response from the owner: Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review, Stephen. We all work as a team here to provide the very best customer care that we can! Thank you for choosing us yet again!
Troy and Larry gave expert service. Kind and considerate in their behavior.
Response from the owner: Thank You! Troy and Larry are great!
Security Alarm set up was great. On time and very professional. Took the time to walk me thru the system. System is working great. Feel safer already
Response from the owner: Thank You Tim for taking the time to leave a review!
The salesman, owner, and technicians were all very professional and polite. They got the job done in a timely manner, and made every effort to be as neat and clean as possible. I couldn't have asked for better service.
Response from the owner: Thank You, Justin!
The customer service is phenomenal. We had a unique situation, and Coy worked diligently to find a solution. He always called me first, rather than requiring me to chase him down for the answer. He answered questions thoroughly and went above and beyond the call of duty. Very, very happy customer.
Response from the owner: Wendy, thank you for taking the time to leave a review! We really appreciate the feedback, and look forward to serving you for many years to come!
We loved working with Security Alarm!
Response from the owner: Misty, thank you for taking the time to leave a review!
Excellent service for many years. Very satisfied with them! A++++
We’ll pleased with our protection & service with Security Alarm
We were having trouble with our 17 year old keypad and called for service. Within a day they were had replaced it at an extremely fair price
Response from the owner: Thank you for taking the time to leave this review, Donald!
Wonderful service. Feel totally safe and secure with my coverage.
Response from the owner: Thank you for taking the time to leave a review, Kendra!
Security Alarm is professional, responsive and very reasonable!
Response from the owner: Thank you, Cindy. We appreciate your business!
Have never had issues with them. Always courteous on the phone
Response from the owner: Thank you, Neil!
Reliable service, fair price. Have been using them over 5 years.
Response from the owner: Thank you for your loyalty to us!
Always quick to help with any issues
Response from the owner: Thank you for taking the time to leave a review, Mary!
I have confidence in Security Alarm and if I have an issue, they are always quick to resolve the problem.
Response from the owner: Thank you Vicki!
The technicians (Curtis and Jeff) arrived as scheduled, had the installation diagrams as discussed with Larry during the sales presentation and immediately began working on the planned installation. These gents came prepared with proper tooling, equipment and most impressive was a strong desire to satisfy the customer. The install was timely, they ensured their quality of work was satisfactory and cleaned up their work areas after the system functionality was verified. Great technicians!
Response from the owner: Gene, thank you so much for taking the time to leave us a review! We are so thankful for our techs and the amazing work and customer care that they give.
Great quick service !
Response from the owner: Thank you for taking the time to leave a review!
This company has been in business for many years with the loyalty and care that is usually part of family owned business. They are prompt in responding when there is need and knowledgeable in their field. It is good to have them located in Salem, IL.
Response from the owner: Thank you! We appreciate your business throughout the years!
Security Alarm handles our security at the office. They have always been on top of things if we have an alarm go off. I have set it off on accident and they are quick to call and check on me. very professional and anytime I call with a question or problem it is taken care of immediately.
Response from the owner: Thank you!
Wonderful business to wok with!They are dependable and great to work with!Stephen MossAirport ManagerPKJY Airport
Response from the owner: Thank you, Stephen!
Installed motion detectors, glass break detectors and panic alarms..they always worked.
Response from the owner: Thank you, Karen!
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!
Extremely professional, very nice looking installation, very knowledgeable, very thorough explanation of my new security system. The best installers and company! I highly recommend them!!!
Response from the owner: Thank you, Russ, for taking the time to leave us a review! We SO appreciate it!
I called Security Alarm to check on cameras for outside since we had used them in our Ag business for years. The process to get lined up was simple and Larry was very thorough in explaining everything. They were out in just a few days to install them. Both guys were very friendly and professional. It didn't take long to install and I know they probably had wiring issues to deal with. They did a great job and the cameras show exactly where I wanted them. I am very pleased with the service and products installed.Thanks!
Response from the owner: Thank you for taking the time to leave a review Cindy! We are so happy that you had a great experience with us and that you are pleased with the product. If either of those things ever change, please let us know!
Security Alarm has a great team and has always taken great care of my business and home. Would highly recommend!
Response from the owner: Thank you Eric for taking the time to leave us a review. We appreciate your loyal business over the years.
“Staff performance: Just would like to report I have had excellent experiences with all your staff. They all have been very professional, courteous and personable. The one stand out is Watson. He has demonstrated a great deal of patience and genuine willingness to give his best to resolve any problems I have brought to him. His technical knowledge and ability to troubleshoot is outstanding. You have a solid team at Security Alarm and as a customer of yours I wanted you to know I appreciate it.”
We have several cameras from Security Alarm. Our favorite is the thermal imaging camera. It is great for watching pastures at night.
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