How to Clear Your Home Security Alarm’s FC Code

If you’ve ever received an error message on your home security system’s panel screen reading “FC”, you may wonder what it means and how to make it go away. While it can be an annoying feature, it’s not something you should ignore. Know that there’s typically no need for you to worry about the FC code or be concerned that your system won’t continue to perform correctly when the error is fixed. However, it’s still important to know how to clear an FC code to potentially avoid additional issues with your system.  

What Is an “FC” Error Code? 

In the home security industry, FC stands for “failed to communicate.” The error code may display differently on your panel if it has an alphanumeric pad, but the message simply means that your security system isn’t communicating well or at all with your designated security company’s alarm response center. The system talks to the security company’s network through a landline or mobile phone line, and sometimes that connection isn’t the strongest. There can be multiple reasons for this, including: 

• Damage to the phone line 

• Interference from outside sources, like hackers 

• Problems with your security equipment

How to Get Rid of an FC Error Code

Your security system may not be monitoring properly if it has an FC error code, which could potentially reduce your home’s level of protection. Because there are several issues that could cause an error code, it’s important to start by checking your phone line from where connects into the system.

If you’re using a landline, unplugging and plugging your phone line back in may help. If you’re using a wireless network, like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or Z-Wave, then try resetting your network. And if you’re using the internet to connect, it would be a good idea to reset your router and clear your cache if your system is synced to your mobile device.

If these attempts don’t clear the error, there are other ways to solve the problem. You can get clarification on the cause of your FC code by calling your alarm company directly, so they can walk you through how to get rid of it.

How to Prevent an FC Error Code

All alarm system panels can have an FC code error, as long as they are professionally  monitored by a home security company. Getting an FC error code isn’t necessarily a bad thing. It just means there’s a communication issue that’s likely caused by the phone line or Wi-Fi connection. It should be a quick and easy fix. Sometimes a connection issue is beyond your control, but there are some steps you can take to prevent it.

If you use a landline to connect, you may have to get your phone line replaced or repaired to get rid of an FC error code. To avoid this, keep an eye on your phone line and check it periodically for exposed wires, bite marks from rodents or pets, and general wear and tear. If you fix your phone line before an error code appears on your panel, you won’t have to worry about losing your connection.

If you’re worried about hackers damaging your connection, there are plenty of ways to keep your system safe. Setting up your system with encryption and two-factor authentication will make it more difficult for hackers to disable your defenses.

If the connection error is caused by damage to your security equipment, as with a phone line it may need to be repaired or replaced. If you’d rather avoid tinkering with your security equipment, we recommend consulting with an expert, whose guidance can help pinpoint and resolve any issues you may have.  

A Step Up in Security

Any connection issue should be corrected to ensure your monitoring continues uninterrupted. However, if you have a more modern home security system, like one with home automation, the FC errors often correct themselves.

Brinks Home™ provides modern solutions for home security, so you and your loved ones are always protected. We encrypt all sensor signals and utilize LTE cellular and Wi-Fi transmissions to ensure all alarms are sent quickly and securely. Plus, Brinks Home allows you to add multiple users to your Brinks Home Touch Panel, all with individualized passwords, which eliminates the need to share login information and helps keep hackers out.

We also offer Brinks Home Plus, a service plan that repairs or replaces your Brinks Home equipment due to normal wear and tear and product malfunctions. That way you can ensure everything is running smoothly, 24/7.

Never worry about missing a connection. Contact us today to make sure your security system is secure and professionally monitored.