Verilock® sensors FAQ

Find answers to Frequently Asked Questions here.

Q: What security and/or self-monitoring systems does Andersen endorse for use with VeriLock® sensors?
A: VeriLock sensors are designed to work when properly configured and maintained with several industry leaders that provide professional security and/or self-monitoring for residential and light commercial buildings. Go to andersenwindows.com/verilock for a current listing of supported service providers. Attempting to use VeriLock sensors with any other brand of security system is not supported by Andersen.
Q. How does a potential buyer learn more about the security or self-monitoring systems options that are compatible with VeriLock sensors?
A. Go to www.andersenwindows.com/verilock for a current listing of supported service providers.
Q: What are the Required Items for Self-Monitoring?
A: Required Items
  • Broadband Internet Connection - Wired Ethernet connection OR Wi-FI to Ethernet adaptor connection (Example: Netgear model WNCE2001-100NAS) (Note: Ethernet adaptors do not typically work with a mobile phone hotspot.)
  • Andersen® Self-Monitoring Kit (Bridge and Translator)
  • Andersen® E-Series windows and doors with Verilock®
Q: What are the Required Items for Professional Monitoring?
A: Required Items
  • Professional Security provider's devices - Control Panel **Other devices from Professional Security providers
  • Broadband Internet connection for the monitoring
  • Andersen® E-Series windows and doors with Verilock®

Q. Isn't it more cost effective to use a motion detector than sensors in each window and door?
A. Motion detectors can’t distinguish between the motion of a legitimate occupant, an intruder and/or household pets. As a result, motion detectors are typically disabled when a homeowner is home. Additionally, indoor motion detectors sense an intrusion after it has occurred rather than during the process of intrusion.

Q: Do VeriLock sensors detect glass breakage?
A: VeriLock sensors are only designed to detect the open/closed and locked/unlocked state of windows and doors. Glass breakage detection is available from the security system dealer and can be integrated into the complete security system independent of VeriLock sensors.

Q: Why would someone want VeriLock sensors in second floor windows or doors that are not easily accessible from the ground?
A: The ability to detect the open/closed and locked/unlocked state of windows and doors has benefits beyond security. Maximum energy efficiency and performance (during inclement weather especially) is achieved when windows and doors are closed and locked. Windows and doors with VeriLock sensors integrated into a security system can simplify checking and identifying open or unlocked openings.

Other benefits include the ability to check open/close status during inclement weather, to monitor open/close and lock/unlock status of windows in the rooms frequently used by children or vulnerable adults, or simply providing the peace of mind knowing the status of all windows and doors no matter the location.

Q: Is it possible to check if windows and doors with VeriLock sensors are open or unlocked remotely?
A: When properly configured and maintained, the open/close and lock/unlock status of windows and doors with VeriLock sensors could be checked remotely via a smart tablet or phone through remote services provided the system providers. The security or self-monitoring system provider in your area can provide more detailed information on the services they provide.

Q: Will other wireless devices in my home interfere with VeriLock® sensors?
A: VeriLock sensors should not interfere with most common household electronics, including cell phones, WIFI routers, microwave ovens and baby monitors because they operate at a different frequency. If desired, VeriLock sensors can be integrated with other wireless devices through a connected home security or self-monitoring system – the choice is yours.

Q: Since VeriLock sensors are wireless, what is their range?
A: Sensor range depends on the types of building materials used and their location relative to the sensors and the wireless receiver. In a free air environment with no obstacles, VeriLock sensors have been observed to have a range of over 500 feet. The installer of the security or self-monitoring system should design the security system to accommodate the particular size and materials used in each dwelling. System dealers can install wireless translators or repeater(s) to provide adequate wireless signal reception in larger homes.

Q: How long will the batteries in VeriLock sensors last?
A: Most 3.0 volt lithium batteries will provide years of operation. Actual battery life is dependent upon the environment in which the sensor is used and the number of signals the sensor has had to send. Other factors such as humidity, temperature extremes or large fluctuations in temperatures may all lead to reduction of battery life. Batteries are not covered under the Limited Warranty for VeriLock Integrated Security Sensors.

Q: Are the batteries in VeriLock sensors easy to change/replace?
A: The batteries in VeriLock sensors can be easily replaced with minimum use of basic hand tools. The 3.0 Volt lithium coin cell batteries used in VeriLock sensors are readily available at most general, hardware or drug stores in a variety of brands. The battery size and quantity used is dependent on the E-Series/Eagle® product type. A summary of the battery sizes and quantities used in E-Series/Eagle products with VeriLock sensors is summarized below.


Product Type
 

Battery Size     
 
Quantity used
 Casement window
 CR-1632
 2 per window
 Awning window
 CR-1632
 2 per window
 Double-hung & Gliding window   
 CR-2032
 1 per window
 Single hung window
 CR-2032   1 per window
 Monumental single-hung window     
 CR-2032
 1 per window
 Hinged patio door
 CR-1632
 2 per door
 Gliding patio door
 CR-1632
 2 per door

Q. For professional monitoring what happens if amongst construction this code (serial number ID found on the Verilock sensor battery slip strip) is missing?
A. If the serial number tag is missing from a sensor, the sensor can be “learned” into the security panel. The installer would get to the zone programming section and go to the input screen for the sensor serial number. Then they would highlight the input line as if they were going to enter a number. Next you cycle the lock of the window/door you are trying to program approximately 5-6 times. The panel will hear the sensor and automatically input the serial number into the field.

Q. How does the Self- Monitoring system work with VeriLock® Sensors?
A. The system works by translating the radio frequency signals received from the Verilock devices to the Z-Wave radio frequency protocol via the Andersen Verilock Translator. The translated Verilock device's signal is then received by the Nexia home automation bridge. The Nexia home automation bridge communicates to the service provider's cloud and from there to the user device being used to access the system information.

Q. Should I locate the Bridge near the Translator? (Self- Monitoring)
A. When installing these components, please plan to plug in the VeriLock TranslatorTM within 30' -50’ of the Nexia bridge for best operation. In situations in which it is not practical to locate the VeriLock TranslatorTM within 30-50 feet of the Nexia bridge, it may be necessary to include an additional Z-Wave device, a VeriLock TranslatorTM and set-up to the Nexia bridge. Position this additional VeriLock TranslatorTM device between the original VeriLock TranslatorTM and the Nexia Bridge to act as a Z-Wave repeater.
Each Z-Wave repeater, such as the Home Dimmer Module and VeriLock TranslatorsTM extends the range by up to 50 feet in all directions, bridging the gap between devices that are too far apart to communicate. 

Additional VeriLock TranslatorsTM can be ordered from your local Andersen dealer.

Q. If you determine communications is poor, what should you try?
A. Add a new repeater such as another Andersen Translator\Self-Monitoring – EagleVision Part Numbers
  • 9125050 - Self-Monitoring Kit
  • 9125052 - Bridge
  • 9125051 - Translator

Q. Who can help with VeriLock system & customer questions?
A. For help with Andersen VeriLock sensors or the Andersen VeriLock translator, please call Andersen Customer Service: #855-337-8806