How to Fix a Honeywell Alarm System That Won't Reset
A Honeywell alarm system that is stuck, unresponsive, or simply won't reset can be a major concern. Whether you've had a false alarm or the keypad is displaying a persistent error code, being unable to clear the system and return it to a normal state is frustrating. This guide will walk you through the common reasons why a Honeywell panel might fail to reset and the steps you can take to resolve the issue.
## Understanding "Trouble Conditions"
The most common reason a Honeywell system won't reset is due to an active "trouble condition." The system is designed to not return to a "Ready to Arm" state if it detects a problem that could compromise your security. This is a feature, not a bug. Your first step should always be to identify and clear any trouble conditions.
Common trouble conditions include:
- Low Battery (BAT): The main panel's backup battery is low.
- Check Zone (CHECK): A specific sensor (door, window, motion) is reporting a fault or is open.
- Comm Failure (FC): The system failed to communicate with the monitoring centre.
- AC Loss (AC): The main AC power to the panel is disconnected.
To check for these, enter your [Master Code] + [OFF] twice. The keypad should display the specific trouble. You must resolve the underlying issue (e.g., close the open window, replace the backup battery) before the system will allow a full reset.
## Step 1: The Standard Reset Procedure
Assuming there are no trouble conditions, let's start with the basics. The standard way to reset or clear the alarm memory is a double disarm.
- Enter Your Code: Go to the keypad and enter your 4-digit Master Code or User Code.
- Press OFF: Press the "OFF" key (which is typically the "1" key).
- Repeat: Immediately enter your [Code] + [OFF] a second time.
This sequence should clear any alarm memory, silence any beeping, and return the system to its normal state. If this doesn't work, it's time to dig deeper.
## Step 2: The Power Cycle or Hard Reset
If the keypad is frozen or the standard reset fails, the next step is a full power cycle. This forces the entire system to reboot, which can clear more stubborn software glitches.
- Locate the Main Panel: This is not the keypad. It's a metal box usually located in a cupboard, basement, or loft.
- Disconnect AC Power: Inside or near the panel, you will find a plug-in transformer. It looks like a large phone charger. Unplug it from the wall socket. Do not touch any other wires.
- Disconnect the Backup Battery: Open the metal panel box (you may need a key or a screwdriver). Inside, you will see a large rectangular battery with a red and a black wire connected to it. Carefully disconnect one of these wires from the battery terminal. The keypad should now go completely blank.
- Wait: Leave the system completely powered down for 2-3 minutes.
- Reconnect Power: Now, do the reverse. First, reconnect the battery wire. Second, plug the AC transformer back into the wall socket.
- Allow Boot-Up: The system will take a minute or two to start up. It may beep and show various messages on the keypad.
- Attempt Reset: Once it has settled, try the [Code] + [OFF] sequence again.
## Step 3: Dealing with Lockouts
If you have entered the wrong code too many times, the system may enter a "lockout" mode to prevent tampering. This can last from a few minutes to over an hour. In this case, the only solution is to wait for the lockout period to expire before trying your code again. Power cycling the system will not bypass a keypad lockout.
## When to Call a Professional
If you have cleared all trouble conditions and performed a full hard reset, but the system remains unresponsive or continues to display an error (like "dI" for disabled), it may indicate a more complex issue with the panel's programming or a hardware fault. At this point, it is advisable to contact a professional alarm technician. They have the tools and installer codes necessary to perform a deep-level diagnostic and factory reset if required.