Frequently Asked Questions
As security and technology experts, let On Guard Security help you utilize your system and service to the fullest. Here are some frequently asked questions.
I am not happy with the service I currently receive through another company. Can I switch to On Guard Security?
Yes, although you probably have an existing monitoring agreement with that company and may have to wait until it expires. However, you should contact us 1 to 2 months before your contract expires so we may make the proper arrangements to transfer service without interruption. We will then program your system to our Central Monitoring Station and provide a free system inspection at your convenience.
Why do I need to have my system monitored?
If your alarm were to go off when no one is home, who will call the police or fire department? Our 24 hour Central Monitoring Station will notify the proper authorities when our operators receive a signal. The police and/or fire department will then be dispatched to your home to help protect your possessions and ensure your safety. Monitoring is an extremely important feature of the security system. Monitoring does require a monthly fee, however the cost is less than most other utility bills and most homeowner’s insurance companies offer a 10% deduction from your premiums for having a monitored system. Isn’t the protection of your family and possessions worth the investment?
Is On Guard Security a locally owned company?
Yes, On Guard Security is a local & veteran owned and operated Arizona company.
Is the monitoring done locally or out of state?
Our monitoring is done locally in Arizona at our FM Approved Central Station located in Tempe.
Why doesn’t my phone work when my alarm goes off?
Most alarm systems communicate through your phone lines. When the system is tripped it will seize the phone line for up to one minute while it communicates with our central station.
Do I need a phone line for my system to work?
You have two options as to how you want your alarm system to transmit signals. One is by your home phone lines, in which case if you disconnect your phone line your alarm system will lose its ability to send a signal. Or you can opt for our cellular service. This option does cost a little more due to “air time” fees, although you won’t need a traditional phone service for your home and your alarm system will send a signal by itself. This is a much more secure transmission method and the additional cost is offset by no longer needing a traditional phone service.
Who owns the alarm equipment?
With any On Guard installed alarm system you own the equipment.
Can any reputable alarm company monitor my On Guard installed system?
Yes. On Guard Security only installs “open architecture” and non proprietary equipment meaning if we don’t provide the best possible service you are free to leave after fulfillment of your contract and can be monitored by any other company you choose without having to purchase any new equipment.
Will the Central Monitoring Station receive any alarm signals if the system is not armed?
Yes and no. We will receive signals from your panic buttons and any fire protection devices, but we will not receive any burglar alarm signals from your alarm panel unless it is armed.
If I have an Emergency, should I call On Guard Security first?
No. If you have an emergency, call 911 first. If you are unable to call 911, then activate your police, fire or medical emergency button on any touchpad or keyfob and On Guard will request emergency services for you.
What happens when I press one off the emergency buttons on a touchpad or keyfob?
If you hold down any of the emergency buttons on your touchpad or keyfob for 3 seconds, an alarm is transmitted to the Monitoring Station and emergency services are dispatched immediately. An alarm received in this manner cannot normally be canceled.
I’m having a new home built and my builder offers a security system prewire. Should I purchase this option?
Yes! By having your new home prewired not only do you save time and money when you decide to have a system installed, but it also enables you to have a fully hardwired security system which is more secure and less costly to maintain in the long run. Wireless systems should only be installed as a last resort if wires are unable to be run.
If you have a different question that wasn’t answered here please feel free to contact us at (480) 895-8555.