Paradox is one of New Zealand’s most popular alarm system brands, known for flexibility, reliability, and user-friendly operation. However, like all security systems, Paradox alarms can experience problems that require expert attention.
Whether you’re seeing cryptic fault codes, experiencing arming failures, or dealing with sensor malfunctions, this comprehensive guide will help you understand what’s happening and determine if professional repair is needed.
At Garrison Alarms, we’ve been servicing Paradox systems across Auckland for over 35 years. Our technicians are Paradox-certified and available 24/7 to help when issues arise.
Understanding Paradox Alarm Systems
Paradox systems come in various configurations, but most operate on similar principles:
Main Panel Types:
- Digiplex series (premium systems)
- Spectra series (mid-range systems)
- MG series (entry-level systems)
- DIGIPLEX EVO (latest generation)
Key Components:
- Control panel with battery backup
- Wireless and/or wired sensors
- Keypads for system control
- Siren for alarm output
- Optional mobile app interface
Most Paradox systems in Auckland homes were installed between 2005-2020, making them generally reliable but potentially aging in some cases.
Common Paradox Alarm Problems
1. System Won’t Arm
What happens: You press the arm button, but nothing happens. No beep, no confirmation, no arm.
Possible causes:
- One or more zones are faulted (open)
- Low battery preventing arming
- Bypass function accidentally activated
- Keypad not communicating with main panel
- Control panel fault
How to fix it:
- Check your keypad display for fault codes
- Look for any open zones listed on the display
- Close all doors and windows physically
- Check for water intrusion or damage to any sensors
- Try entering your code again
Professional intervention: If you still can’t identify the fault, our technicians can run diagnostics to locate the problem quickly.
2. False Alarms
What you’re experiencing: Your Paradox system triggers without any security breach.
Why this happens:
- Dust or debris on motion sensor lenses
- Pet-triggered motion sensors (especially in older systems)
- Loose wiring causing intermittent sensor activation
- Wireless component battery failure
- Programming error allowing false activation
- Environmental factors (sudden temperature changes, bright sunlight)
Reducing false alarms:
- Clean motion sensor lenses monthly with soft, dry cloth
- Install pet-immune motion detectors if you have animals
- Review sensor placement to avoid direct sunlight
- Keep wireless component batteries fresh
- Have system professionally calibrated
Why false alarms matter: Too many false alarms can result in police response penalties and undermine your system’s credibility when you need it most.
3. Beeping Control Panel
What you hear: Continuous or intermittent beeping from your main panel.
What it means:
- Low battery warning (beep every 30-60 seconds)
- Zone fault alert
- System fault requiring attention
- Disarm failed warning
How to identify the specific issue:
- Look at your keypad display—it should show which zone or fault is active
- If displaying “Low Battery,” battery replacement is needed
- If showing zone fault, check that specific zone’s sensor
- If general “Trouble,” scroll through display for more details
When to call for help: If your display is blank or showing codes you don’t recognize, professional help is needed to safely diagnose the issue.
4. Wireless Sensor Connection Loss
What’s happening: Your wireless sensors intermittently lose connection with the main panel.
Indicators:
- Zone open fault appears randomly
- Sensor works sometimes but not always
- Zone shows fault when sensor is in bypass
Common causes:
- Dead batteries in wireless components
- Signal interference from WiFi, cordless phones, or microwaves
- Physical obstruction between sensor and panel
- Distance from panel exceeds system range
- Faulty sensor requiring replacement
Troubleshooting:
- Replace batteries in affected wireless components
- Check distance between sensor and panel
- Remove potential sources of interference
- Try repositioning sensor or panel if possible
- Test again after making changes
When to upgrade: If you’re constantly fighting wireless issues, it might be time to upgrade to a newer Paradox system with better wireless technology.
5. Keypad Not Responding
What’s happening: Your keypad isn’t responding to button presses.
Causes:
- Dead batteries in wireless keypads
- Loose connections in wired keypads
- Water damage to keypad
- Main panel fault preventing communication
- Faulty keypad requiring replacement
Quick fixes:
- Replace batteries if wireless
- Check keypad cable connections if wired
- Try using a different keypad if you have multiple
- Move keypad away from heat sources or moisture
6. Entry Delay Not Working
What’s happening: Your alarm triggers immediately when a protected door or window opens, with no entry delay.
Why this matters: Entry delays are critical for allowing you to disarm the system before it alarms.
Causes:
- Programming error
- Zone configuration incorrect
- Sensor type incorrectly set
- System malfunction
Solution: This requires professional programming adjustment. Don’t try to fix it yourself as incorrect settings can compromise security.
Paradox Fault Codes Explained
Your Paradox system displays specific codes for different issues. Here are the most common:
| Fault Code | Meaning | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Low Battery | Main battery low | Replace battery soon |
| Zone Open | Sensor not responding | Check sensor and connections |
| Trouble | General system fault | Check display for more info |
| Bell Tamper | Siren tamper detected | Inspect siren for damage |
| RF Jam | Wireless jamming detected | Check for interference sources |
| Bypass | Zone manually bypassed | Check why zone was bypassed |
| Fail to Arm | System won’t arm | Resolve zone faults first |
| AC Fail | Power supply problem | Check mains power connection |
| Phone Line Fail | Communication fault | Check phone line connection |
Important: Different Paradox models may use different codes. If you’re unsure, take a photo of the code and bring it to your professional for identification.
How to Reset Your Paradox System
Soft Reset (Full Disarm)
This won’t lose your programming:
- Enter your master code + 0
- System should fully disarm
- Wait 10 seconds
- Re-arm to see if faults have cleared
Restart Procedure
To restart without losing programming:
- Locate your main panel
- Switch the backup battery off
- Disconnect main power
- Wait 30 seconds
- Reconnect main power
- Reconnect battery
- Wait for panel to restart (usually 1-2 minutes)
Factory Reset
This will erase ALL programming and must only be done by a professional. If you need this, contact Garrison Alarms.
Warning: Never attempt factory reset without professional guidance unless you have your installer code and full system documentation. Incorrectly resetting your system will render it inoperable.
Paradox System Age & Reliability
Systems installed 2005-2015: Generally very reliable. Components may be aging; consider maintenance.
Systems installed 2015-2020: Prime condition. Should require minimal service.
Systems installed before 2005: Approaching end of service life. Consider replacement planning.
How to find your installation date:
- Check your documentation
- Look at the backup battery (often dated)
- Contact Garrison Alarms with your panel serial number
If your system is 15+ years old, talk to us about modernization options. Newer systems offer better features, easier operation, and improved mobile integration.
When to Call Garrison Alarms
Call immediately if:
- Your system won’t disarm (potential security threat)
- Siren won’t stop after disarming
- You’ve been broken into or suspect tampering
- Panel shows “Tamper” or “Intrusion” indication
- System won’t respond to keypads at all
Schedule a service appointment if:
- You see persistent fault codes
- Sensors are failing regularly
- False alarms are frequent
- Wireless components keep losing connection
- System hasn’t been professionally serviced in 3+ years
- You’re experiencing any problem this guide doesn’t cover
Request a quote if:
- You want an upgrade assessment
- Your system is over 10 years old
- You want to add new zones or sensors
- You’re interested in mobile app control
- You need system programming changes
Paradox System Upgrades & Enhancements
If your current system is giving you trouble, consider these improvements:
Add Mobile Monitoring: Modern Paradox systems can send alerts to your smartphone, allowing real-time monitoring from anywhere.
Install Pet-Immune Sensors: Upgrade motion detectors to prevent false alarms from pets while maintaining security.
Add Wireless Cameras: Integrate video surveillance for complete security coverage.
Upgrade to Latest Panel: Modern Paradox panels like the DIGIPLEX EVO offer better reliability, faster processing, and improved wireless technology.
Expand Zone Coverage: Add additional sensors to protect vulnerable entry points.
We can assess your current system and recommend cost-effective upgrades during a free consultation.
Preventative Maintenance for Paradox Systems
Monthly:
- Test arming and disarming
- Listen for unusual sounds or warnings
- Check that all keypads are responsive
Quarterly:
- Clean motion sensor lenses
- Inspect wiring for damage or corrosion
- Test entry/exit delays
Semi-Annually:
- Replace wireless sensor batteries
- Check backup battery health
- Review system logs for patterns
Annually:
- Professional inspection and diagnostics
- Main battery replacement
- System programming review
- Sensor realignment if needed
FAQ: Paradox Alarm Problems
What does RF Jam mean on my Paradox display?
RF Jam indicates radio frequency jamming—usually from a nearby WiFi router, cordless phone, or other wireless device. Try moving your main panel away from these sources or adjusting their location.
Can I add wireless sensors to my old wired Paradox system?
Yes! Paradox systems can typically integrate wireless components. Our technicians can advise on compatibility and install wireless sensors to supplement your existing wired system.
My Paradox system keeps losing wireless zone connections—how do I fix this?
First, replace batteries in wireless sensors. If that doesn’t help, we can perform a signal survey and recommend repositioning. Some older wireless sensors may need replacement with newer models for reliability.
Is it normal for my Paradox keypad to beep when I press buttons?
Yes, this is normal and confirms button presses. If it’s not beeping, there may be a volume setting issue or keypad fault.
What’s the difference between bypassing a zone and disarming the system?
Bypassing temporarily disables a specific zone while keeping others armed. Disarming deactivates the entire system. Bypass is useful when a door or window is broken and awaiting repair.
How do I know if my Paradox battery needs replacement?
If you see “Low Battery” message repeatedly, or if the system beeps every 30-60 seconds, battery replacement is due.
Can I program my own Paradox system?
Basic functions like arming/disarming and setting bypass are user-friendly. Advanced programming requires installer code and technical knowledge. We recommend professional programming for complex changes.
What should I do if I’ve lost my user code?
Contact your installer or a professional like Garrison Alarms. We can reset codes using your master code or installer code.
Why Garrison Alarms for Paradox Service
Certified Expertise: Factory-trained on all Paradox models.
35+ Years Experience: We’ve been servicing Paradox systems since they entered the Auckland market.
24/7 Availability: Emergency help when you need it.
Rapid Response: We typically respond within 2-4 hours.
Transparent Service: Free quotes, no hidden charges.
Parts & Service: We stock genuine Paradox parts for quick repairs.
Warranty: All work guaranteed.
COC Certified: Full compliance with NZ security standards.
Get Professional Help Today
Don’t let Paradox alarm problems compromise your security. Whether you need emergency repair, routine maintenance, or system upgrade advice, Garrison Alarms is ready to help.
Contact us:
- Phone: 0800-427747 (24/7)
- Address: 101 Diana Drive, Glenfield, North Shore Auckland
- Online: Request free quote or emergency service
Service coverage: All of Auckland, including North Shore, West Auckland, Central Auckland, South Auckland, and East Auckland.
Internal linking notes:
- Visit Complete Alarm Repairs Guide
- See Alarm Beeping Solutions
- Compare Best Home Alarm Systems in NZ 2026
- Learn about Wired vs Wireless Alarms
Your Paradox system is built to protect. Let Garrison Alarms keep it working perfectly.