Wireless or Hardwired Home Security Equipment

Some companies only provide one or the other exclusively. Others will provide either at your discretion. Then there are those who will provide a hybrid option, meaning a hardwired system with some wireless protection points.

The difference between the two...

Wireless home security systems are self-contained control unit, keypad, and siren in one sleek package. A great idea for the correct setup in a retrofit installation where new wire accessibility is a problem. This may pertain to a small home with drywall on the basement ceiling, a home with no basement or attic access, a townhouse, condo, or an apartment. But, it needs to be designed and programmed correctly as to not allow an intruder to get to the alarm console before the home security system serves it's purpose. The 3 main goals of a home security alarm system are: 1. Deterrent (scare someone off), 2. Alert homeowner, 3. Notify (communicate with someone i.e. alarm central station). If the correct protection is not in place, a wireless 'self-contained' home security alarm allows for a single piece of equipment for defeat.

Hardwired security equipment is the traditional setup. Each and every point needs a wire home run back to the control panel. Typically a system consists of the controller, keypad console, siren, AC plug in transformer, RJ31X phone jack, and then the protection points. Each device is separate from the other making it more difficult to defeat. Let's say you are starting with a system of 3 door sensors and 3 motion sensors. That's (9) new wire runs. Any technician should be able to accomplish this, but, the question is, what will it take to get it done. Security alarm installers are excellent at feeding wires through walls (fishing). They can conceal many new wire runs. But they cannot see through walls and may on occasion clip something with a drill bit. They, also, cannot feed wires sideways through studs, without pulling trim or cutting drywall. The advantages are that copper wiring rarely goes 'bad' or loses it's integrity and there are no batteries to maintenance.

There are a couple concerns you should have with a company or dealer that offers one or the other exclusively. An alarm company only providing wireless security systems probably pays very little to it's installers and asks them to 'slap in' as many home security systems in a work week as possible. Unfortunately, this means inexperience technicians at your home and a rush installation that will probably cause you headaches in the end. The wireless equipment does cost more, but, it proves beneficial if the company can produce a huge volume of new accounts. On the other hand, a company only offering hardwired equipment is saving a ton of money on the equipment. In fact, a wireless door sensor can cost a dealer up to $40-$50 dollars where a hardwired magnetic door contact may cost $2. That type of savings makes it difficult for some companies or dealers to accept the fact that their technicians cannot get it wired. Again, what will it take to get it done, though.

Be sure to ask questions and get what is most conducive to your home's security needs. A hybrid-type system incorporates a hardwired control unit, keypad, and siren, then has protection points either hardwired or wireless dependent on new wire accessibility. Although wireless sensors do consume batteries, most systems will advise you on the keypad console and notify the central station if they run low. Also, some manufacturers are using lithium batteries to extend the life and require minimal maintenance. Either way, you will appreciate the proper design and installation and will probably be working with a better alarm provider.

Home Security 'space' protection devices...

Motion detectors are the most widely used devices for space protection. Motion sensors are used to create traps in the home. A typical motion detector placement would be a 'corner-mounted' sensor covering a predominant walking pattern. (i.e. foyer, hallway, bottom of the stairs, etc.) Most motion sensors are a 90 degree pattern covering from 10-15 meters. From the mounting height a field of infrared beams create a 'curtain' from that height towards the floor.

Glassbreak (acoustic/shock) sensors are used for perimeter protection. They also cover can cover a significant amount of space. Many have a radius rating of 10-25ft. Because a glassbreak needs to be located in each vulnerable area with glass windows, sometimes, a few more devices are needed. (they cannot 'hear' through walls) However, they will be active in both modes of protection, arming for when you're in the home and when you've left. Remember, a glassbreak device can only be effective if you are in the habit of locking each and every window when securing your home. They don't detect the window frame being lifted.

When choosing your 'space' protection devices, try to determine the most likely scenarios when you will have the system armed. Some home security owners will only are the system when they have left the home for work or on vacation. This scenario would be more suitable for motion sensors. If you will be arming your home security system at any moment during the day, at home or away, consider using glassbreak sensors for additional perimeter protection. They'll provide the ability to be in the home moving around while having sufficient protection. A combination of both is a good idea for those with a high need for loss protection and life safety.

Big Name Alarm Co or Local Dealer?

Which shall I choose?

Well, that all depends on your available funds in my opinion. If you have a high need for a home security alarm system, but not much available cash, you'd probably have to go with a corporate security company or at least a dealer in a big name program. You see, without the ability to purchase equipment outright and pay for the installation, you can sign up with a company that will allow a specified equipment package for $0-$100. In turn, you would have to sign an agreement to accept services (with a monthly payment) for a term-length. Typically, a credit review is done to assure the account will stay in good standing.

If you can afford a larger up-front payment, you can usually find a significantly lower monthly rate for monitoring services AND not be committed to a 3-year agreement. In the long run, you'll save the money the longer you continue your monitoring services. Be sure to utilize a respected local company though!