FAQ

1. How do I update my contact info?
2. Can I pay my bill online?
3. Do you accept credit card payments?
4. Who monitors my alarm?
5. Do you provide free estimates?
6. How do I know what type of equipment I will need?
7. How long does it take to install?
8. What is involved in the installation process?
9. Do I need to have phone lines to have an alarm system?
10. Will my alarm system be under warranty?
11. How do I know if my business requires a U.L. certified fire or security alarm system?
12. Do you install sprinklers?
13. Are cameras monitored by Electro Watchman?
14. How long has Electro Watchman been in business?

1. How do I update my contact info?

   To updated contact information, you must be an individual authorized to make changes to your account.  If so, contact your local office or our Central Station to obtain a Keyholder/Code Information Sheet.  Our Central Station telephone number is (800) 223-8599.

2. Can I pay my bill online?

   This feature is under construction.

3. Do you accept credit card payments?

   Yes, we accept Visa, MasterCard and Discover. Call your local office to make your payment by credit card.

4. Who monitors my alarm?

   Electro Watchman's Central Station is located at our corporate headquarters in St. Paul, Minnesota.

5. Do you provide free estimates?

   Yes. Since every customer's needs are different, our account representatives take the time to visit with you at the site to provide you with a specific security plan and free estimate.

6. How do I know what type of equipment I will need?

   Our experienced sales staff can meet with you to determine the appropriate equipment to meet your needs, depending on your wishes as well as city and states codes dictating required alarm equipment for your facility.

7. How long does it take to install?

   Some security systems can take only a few hours to install, while other more complex systems may take several weeks. For new construction or remodels, we often pre-wire the alarm system and then return when construction is completed to install the rest of the system. Wireless systems are also common and generally take less time to install than wired systems.

8. What is involved in the installation process?

   With a phone call or email one of our local offices, your account representative will discuss your needs and general system layout. Your account rep may request an appointment with you to view the site and determine specific details for a customized design. If an appointment is not feasible, they may request maps or schematics to determine the amount of coverage needed and number of devices. A custom-tailored design and estimate will be developed to meet your security needs and stay within your budget.

   Upon approval of the estimate, a service contract and down payment may be requested. Once these items are received, our service department will schedule the appointment and inform you of any preparations you may need to make, such as ordering a lift or electrician.

   During the installation, there may be some noise from drilling or moving ladders. At the end of the installation, any debris or waste will be cleaned up. Our technician will show you the system, train you to use it and answer any final questions you may have.

   A final inspection by the AHJ may be required for fire system installations. Once the job is completed you will be billed for the remaining balance due.

9. Do I need to have phone lines to have an alarm system?

   Many residences and some businesses have chosen to forego phone lines. While many alarm panels still communicate through a phone line connection, Electro Watchman also offers security and fire alarm solutions that communicate by radio and cellular signals using our own FCC frequency. (The alarm does not need a cell phone to communicate by cellular signaling.)

   Some fire alarm panels require two dedicated phone lines for communication. We install traditional line-secured fire alarm panels. Our fire radio communicator is approved to provide primary communication to a monitoring station, eliminating the need for extra phone lines.

   If your site has phone lines, you may wish to install a phone line-secured alarm along with a radio communicator to provide backup signals should the phone line be cut or compromised.

10. Will my alarm system be under warranty?

    All equipment installed by Electro Watchman carries a one year warranty on parts and labor. Additional service plans may also be purchased. All equipment leased from Electro Watchman has service included due to normal wear and tear as part of the lease agreement.

11. How do I know if my business requires a U.L. certified fire or security alarm system?

    UL certification on alarm systems is usually determined by an Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ), such as a fire marshal or city, or a business' insurance company.

    In Minnesota, all non-residential sites in these cities require a UL certified fire alarm system: Brooklyn Center, Brooklyn Park, Burnsville, Chanhassen, Chaska, Coon Rapids, Eden Prairie, Golden Valley, Maple Grove, Plymouth, Shakopee, and St. Anthony.

    Jewelry stores often get a hefty insurance discount if their alarm system is certified and installed to UL standards. Consult your insurance company for specific required security measures.

    Contact us for any other specific UL questions.

12. Do you install sprinklers?

    Although we install sprinkler suppression alarm systems, we do not install sprinklers themselves.

13. Are cameras monitored by Electro Watchman?

    Cameras, as part of a surveillance or CCTV system, are not monitored by Electro Watchman. After a camera system is installed, your technician will train you how view real-time or past footage so you are able to manage this security tool at your convenience.

14. How long has Electro Watchman been in business?

    For over 100 years, Electro Watchman has been a family-owned and operated business, providing security solutions since 1921.