Are you considering canceling your ADT alarm service but wondering what will happen to your home security system? You’re not alone. Many homeowners face this dilemma when deciding whether to switch to a different security provider or cancel their service altogether. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of what happens to your ADT alarm system when you cancel your service, and explore your options for maintaining home security.
What Happens to My ADT Alarm System When I Cancel Service?
When you cancel your ADT alarm service, the system will no longer be monitored by ADT’s central monitoring station. This means that if your alarm is triggered, it will not send a signal to ADT, and you will not receive a response from their emergency services team. However, the alarm system itself may still function, depending on the type of system you have and how it is configured.
Types of ADT Alarm Systems
ADT offers a range of alarm systems, including:
- Wired systems: These systems are connected to your home’s electrical system and require a physical connection to function.
- Wireless systems: These systems use wireless sensors and communicators to connect to the central monitoring station.
- Hybrid systems: These systems combine wired and wireless components.
The type of system you have will affect what happens to it when you cancel your service. Wired systems, for example, may still function as a local alarm, sounding a siren when triggered, but they will not be able to send a signal to ADT’s central monitoring station. Wireless systems, on the other hand, may not function at all without a connection to the central monitoring station.
Will My ADT Alarm System Still Sound a Siren?
In most cases, your ADT alarm system will still sound a siren when triggered, even if you cancel your service. However, this depends on the type of system you have and how it is configured. If you have a wired system, the siren will likely still sound, but if you have a wireless system, it may not.
Options for Maintaining Home Security After Canceling ADT Service
If you cancel your ADT alarm service, you still have several options for maintaining home security:
Self-Monitoring
One option is to self-monitor your alarm system. This means that you will be responsible for responding to any alerts or alarms, rather than relying on ADT’s central monitoring station. Self-monitoring can be a cost-effective option, but it requires you to be available 24/7 to respond to any alerts.
Switching to a Different Security Provider
Another option is to switch to a different security provider. Many security companies offer monitoring services for existing alarm systems, so you may be able to find a new provider that can take over monitoring your ADT system. This can be a good option if you’re not happy with ADT’s service but still want to maintain your existing alarm system.
Upgrading to a New Alarm System
If you’re not happy with your existing ADT alarm system, you may want to consider upgrading to a new system. This can be a good opportunity to take advantage of new technology and features, such as smart home integration and video surveillance.
Things to Consider When Upgrading to a New Alarm System
When upgrading to a new alarm system, there are several things to consider:
- Compatibility: Make sure the new system is compatible with your existing equipment, such as door and window sensors.
- Features: Consider what features are important to you, such as smart home integration, video surveillance, and mobile alerts.
- Cost: Calculate the total cost of the new system, including equipment, installation, and monitoring fees.
- Warranty: Check the warranty offered by the new provider, including the length of the warranty and what is covered.
How to Cancel ADT Service
If you’ve decided to cancel your ADT alarm service, here’s what you need to do:
Review Your Contract
Before canceling your service, review your contract to understand your obligations and any potential penalties for early cancellation.
Contact ADT Customer Service
To cancel your service, contact ADT customer service by phone or email. You will need to provide your account information and confirm that you want to cancel your service.
Return Equipment (If Required)
If you have leased equipment from ADT, you may be required to return it when you cancel your service. Check your contract to see if this applies to you.
Conclusion
Canceling your ADT alarm service doesn’t have to mean sacrificing home security. By understanding your options and taking steps to maintain your alarm system, you can continue to protect your home and family. Whether you choose to self-monitor, switch to a different security provider, or upgrade to a new alarm system, there are many ways to maintain home security after canceling ADT service.
| Option | Description | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Self-Monitoring | Take responsibility for responding to alerts and alarms | Free (but requires your time and attention) |
| Switch to a Different Security Provider | Find a new provider to take over monitoring your existing alarm system | Varies (depending on the new provider’s fees) |
| Upgrade to a New Alarm System | Install a new alarm system with new features and technology | Varies (depending on the cost of the new system and installation) |
By considering these options and taking steps to maintain your alarm system, you can continue to protect your home and family after canceling ADT service.
Will my ADT alarm still work if I cancel service?
If you cancel your ADT service, your alarm system will still function, but its capabilities will be limited. The system will continue to sound an alarm in the event of a triggered sensor, but it will no longer send signals to the ADT monitoring center. This means that you will not receive emergency response services, such as police or fire department dispatch, in the event of an alarm trigger.
However, you can still use your ADT alarm system as a local alarm, which will sound a siren to deter intruders and alert you to potential security breaches. You can also consider self-monitoring your system using a smartphone app, if available, to receive notifications of alarm triggers. Keep in mind that you may need to reset or reprogram your system to function without ADT monitoring.
What happens to my ADT equipment when I cancel service?
When you cancel your ADT service, you typically have a few options for handling your equipment. If you own the equipment outright, you can keep it and continue to use it as a local alarm system. However, if you leased the equipment from ADT, you may be required to return it to the company. Be sure to review your contract to understand your obligations regarding equipment return.
In some cases, ADT may offer to buy back your equipment or allow you to purchase it at a discounted rate. You can also consider selling your equipment to a third-party buyer or donating it to a local charity. Before making any decisions, it’s essential to review your contract and understand your options for handling your ADT equipment.
Can I use my ADT alarm system with a different monitoring service?
It may be possible to use your ADT alarm system with a different monitoring service, but it depends on the specific equipment and technology used. Some ADT systems are proprietary and can only be monitored by ADT, while others may be compatible with third-party monitoring services. You’ll need to check with the new monitoring service to see if they support your ADT equipment.
Even if your ADT equipment is compatible with a new monitoring service, you may need to have it reprogrammed or updated to work with the new service. This can often be done remotely, but in some cases, a technician may need to visit your home to perform the necessary updates. Be sure to ask about any fees or requirements associated with switching monitoring services.
How do I cancel my ADT service?
To cancel your ADT service, you’ll typically need to contact the company directly and speak with a customer service representative. You can reach ADT by phone or through their website, and you’ll need to provide your account information and reason for cancellation. Be sure to review your contract to understand any cancellation fees or penalties that may apply.
It’s essential to confirm your cancellation in writing, either by email or mail, to ensure that your service is officially terminated. You should also ask about any equipment return requirements and confirm that your account has been closed to avoid any further charges. Keep a record of your cancellation confirmation for your records.
Are there any fees associated with canceling ADT service?
Yes, there may be fees associated with canceling your ADT service. These fees can vary depending on your contract and the reason for cancellation. Some common fees include early termination fees, equipment return fees, and cancellation penalties. Be sure to review your contract to understand any fees that may apply.
In some cases, ADT may waive or reduce cancellation fees if you’re canceling due to a move or other extenuating circumstances. It’s worth asking about any potential fee waivers or reductions when you contact ADT to cancel your service. Keep in mind that you may still be responsible for paying any outstanding balances or fees associated with your account.
Can I reactivate my ADT service if I cancel?
Yes, it’s often possible to reactivate your ADT service if you cancel, but the process and any associated fees can vary. If you’ve only recently canceled your service, you may be able to reactivate it by contacting ADT and requesting reinstatement. However, if you’ve canceled your service and returned your equipment, you may need to sign a new contract and pay any applicable fees.
Reactivating your ADT service may also require you to pay any outstanding balances or fees associated with your account. Additionally, you may be subject to new contract terms and pricing, which could be different from your original agreement. Be sure to review any new contract terms and ask about any fees associated with reactivating your service.
What are my alternatives to ADT monitoring?
If you’re canceling your ADT service, you have several alternatives for monitoring your alarm system. You can consider self-monitoring using a smartphone app, which can provide you with notifications of alarm triggers and allow you to respond accordingly. You can also explore third-party monitoring services, which can offer similar emergency response services to ADT.
Some popular alternatives to ADT monitoring include DIY security systems, such as Ring or Nest, which offer self-monitoring capabilities and integration with smart home devices. You can also consider local security companies that offer monitoring services, which may provide more personalized support and response times. Be sure to research and compare different options to find the best fit for your security needs and budget.