Alarm RelayReviews of alarmrelay.com

I'm an above average homeowner tech person. I don't work in the field professionally, but I can dis-assemble and re-assemble just about anything from automobiles to electronic instruments. My experience with Alarm Relay has been as fruitful as taking a car to a mechanic who keeps replacing parts until they stumble on the solution. They suggested I replace the main PCB (printed circuit board, $35 sourced independently) suggesting the issue was either that or the dialer. From the start I explained that I had no landline and monitoring was done through my DSL line. There wasn't cognition of this fact on their part until after the PCB was replaced and they asked "what number does your system use to dial out?". I again repeated how signals were being sent from my home and state that since I was able to see that system being armed and dis-armed through my previous company's web portal that it was effective, as is, in the past. They then said "well in order for us to monitor you through DSL you'll need to add an EVL-4 module", which I sourced for $96 online. We get everything configured and the tech says "o.k., let's test you smoke detector". I'm instructed to hold down the test button on the 521B smoke detector that ADT had installed in 2003. Believing the tech knew what he was talking about I attempted to press the only visible area where there might be a "test" button, which was actually just an indicator light that shows the device is functioning. The tech says, "well, given the age of the device it may not be functioning" and suggests I replace the unit. So, once again, I research and source a replacement 500N series smoke detector made by Interlogix ($40). I wire it into the system and call to test the unit; again, different tech, same run around. I tell her "there is NO test button on these units, which is supported by the installation instructions I just read". Mind you, these people are supposed to be subject matter experts. I'm told "well the only way to test it then is to buy smoke in-a-can. I said "Look... I'm not spending another penny on this project. You people are like an auto mechanic that guesses until they eventually resolve the issue!". Ridiculous!! I asked, "if you get an alarm signal will you call me first before dispatching calling my local responders?". The tech said "yes". I lit a cigar, blew smoke at the unit and the siren sounded. There's your solution. ADT is the leader in home security system installations. The Ademco Vista-20P is THE industry standard in household alarm systems. This IS NOT rocket science and should be common knowledge for ANY company that offers tech support for alarm systems. For all the unnecessary expense and aggravation I should get my first year of monitoring for free! Reply to Alarm Relay Comments: > The fact that you don't have techs in the field is why I was clear and concise in my communications. You allegedly record calls for training & quality purposes, review your recordings. I stated from the beginning that I was monitored through DSL and had no landline. I provided PHOTOGRAPHS of EVERY system component involved in the monitoring and transmission of signals from my home. Rather than assume (since you don't have techs in the field) that the PCB was the issue, skip to the fact that you can't monitor through DSL (again, clearly communicated from the start) without the EVL-4 and start there. If the integration of that device allows communication with your monitoring station, no need for the PCB replacement. The age of the system is marginally relevant; there are no moving parts in electronics and things don't wear out. The Ademco VISTA-20P units are still manufactured and installed at this time. > The documentation that accompanies the United Technologies Corporation ESL 550N Series Smoke Detectors (P/N 1036525-EN REV F) shows there is NO test button (a fact your tech support team should know) and that there are TWO recommended test methods: 1. Smoke! In A Can (or) 2. Hold a smoldering punk or cotton wick close to the unit... Smoke from a combustible source, be it a punk, cotton wick, cigar or other CONTROLLABLE source is the same. Go to Google and search: P/N 1036525-EN for the supporting pdf. You are again, incorrect. The smoke detector replacement was unnecessary, as recommended by Alarm Relay. > Really? "Life Safety Enhancement"? Why do you think I chose to install a burglary system and REDUNDANT fire detection system in the first place? You're grasping to validate your company's misdirection. There are hard wired smoke detectors with battery back-up on every floor of the home. When occupied, detection would be prompt, as is. At a minimum, you should pay me for the cost of the PCB and new smoke detector. You need to improve.

Technician called after I had signed only to recommend that I upgrade my system. When I refused, he was able to connect it anyway. I had also been told that I could use the alarm.com app the same day -- over 24 hours later I have yet to receive a passcode. Not smooth, folks.

Excellent service,at great price.

Did not like working with this company. Canceled contract less than a year into service with them. Not easy to work with and alarm techs could not get my system to work with my VOIP. Refused to refund the rest of my money based on balance of unused contract.

Numerous False Alarms on 'ghost' doors/window alerts. We don't even have the burglar alarm feature activated, yet we got numerous 'fault' warnings on various locations in the house.

Provided 2 stars for good monitoring and response. Not happy with the price, turned out to be far more expensive than ADT and misleading contract terms with respective to annual commitment. Paid lot of money during installation. Discontinued service as soon as I completed my paid annual subscription. I would not recommend them unless maybe you only need to enable monitoring with them.

Disappointing recently vs. the company 5 to 7 years ago. Value and Service has diminished.

Alarm have issue, technician unable to resolve